This Corrosion - Anthem of Gothic Rock Melding Haunting Vocals With Crushing Guitar Riffs
Music has an uncanny ability to transport us through time and space, weaving tales of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. Within the vast tapestry of musical genres, gothic rock stands out as a darkly romantic realm where shadows dance with ethereal melodies and lyrics explore themes of existential angst, love lost, and the macabre. One masterpiece that exemplifies this captivating genre is “This Corrosion,” a haunting anthem by the legendary British band Sisters of Mercy.
Released in 1987 as part of their second studio album “Floodland,” “This Corrosion” catapulted Sisters of Mercy into the mainstream spotlight. The song, clocking in at just over six minutes, is an epic journey through sonic landscapes both majestic and menacing. Andrew Eldritch’s signature baritone vocals, deep and resonant like a tomb echoing whispers, deliver lyrics brimming with gothic imagery and philosophical musings: “The world was built on fear. We were not the first to break.”
Musically, “This Corrosion” is a testament to the band’s mastery of atmosphere and dynamics. The track opens with a shimmering synth arpeggio that gradually builds in intensity before unleashing a barrage of crushing guitar riffs courtesy of Doktor Avalanche (real name: Wayne Hussey). Eldritch’s mournful vocals soar over this sonic maelstrom, creating an unforgettable sense of melancholic grandeur.
The Genesis of a Gothic Masterpiece:
To fully appreciate “This Corrosion,” one must delve into the history of Sisters of Mercy and their enigmatic frontman, Andrew Eldritch. Formed in Leeds in 1980, the band initially embraced a more minimalist post-punk sound influenced by Joy Division and Bauhaus. Eldritch, with his distinctive gothic aesthetic (think black clothes, slicked-back hair, sunglasses even indoors), quickly became the band’s focal point.
Sisters of Mercy’s early singles, such as “Temple of Love” and “Alice,” showcased their penchant for dark romanticism and brooding melodies. However, it was “This Corrosion” that cemented their status as gothic rock icons.
The song’s creation was anything but conventional. Eldritch, known for his meticulous songwriting process, reportedly spent months refining the lyrics and musical arrangement. He drew inspiration from literary works like Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” and Edgar Allan Poe’s poems, weaving together themes of death, resurrection, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness.
Deconstructing “This Corrosion”: A Sonic Journey:
Beyond its thematic depth, “This Corrosion” is a masterclass in musical composition. The song features:
- Layered Synth Textures: Eldritch utilized a variety of synthesizers to create a rich tapestry of sound. From the shimmering arpeggios that open the track to the deep, throbbing basslines that underpin the chorus, the synths are instrumental in creating the song’s ethereal atmosphere.
| Synth Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Roland Juno-106 | Bright, shimmering arpeggios |
| Sequential Prophet-5 | Powerful basslines and pads |
| Oberheim OB-Xa | Lush strings and atmospheric textures |
- Crushing Guitar Riffs: Doktor Avalanche’s heavy guitar riffs provide the song with a driving energy that contrasts beautifully with Eldritch’s mournful vocals. The combination of distortion, feedback, and intricate melodies creates a sound that is both menacing and exhilarating.
- Dynamic Shifts: One of the most striking aspects of “This Corrosion” is its masterful use of dynamics. The song ebbs and flows between moments of quiet introspection and explosive choruses, keeping the listener engaged throughout its six-minute duration.
“This Corrosion’s” Enduring Legacy:
“This Corrosion” remains one of the most enduring and influential gothic rock anthems of all time. The song’s combination of haunting melodies, crushing riffs, and evocative lyrics has inspired generations of musicians and continues to resonate with audiences today.
Its legacy extends beyond the realm of music. “This Corrosion” has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and video games, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone. The song’s imagery and themes have also influenced fashion, literature, and art, demonstrating the profound impact it has had on popular culture.
Exploring Further:
For those seeking to delve deeper into the world of gothic rock, “This Corrosion” serves as an excellent starting point. It opens a doorway into a universe of haunting melodies, dark lyricism, and a captivating sense of drama that will leave you spellbound. So put on your headphones, dim the lights, and prepare to be transported by this unforgettable masterpiece.