Siouxsie and the Banshees' 1987 album, "Through the Looking Glass," is a testament to their musical versatility. Featuring cover versions of songs by various artists, the album reflects the band's creative prowess. Produced collaboratively by the band and Mike Hedges, it stands as a unique contribution to the eclectic musical landscape of the late 1980s, showcasing Siouxsie Sioux's captivating vocals and the band's innovative approach to reinventing existing works.
In the vibrant tapestry of musical history, Siouxsie and the Banshees' eighth studio album, "Through the Looking Glass," stands as a testament to the band's artistic exploration and creative prowess. Released in 1987 under Wonderland Records, this LP took on the unique endeavor of presenting cover versions of songs originally crafted and performed by other artists.
Siouxsie and the Banshees, known for their influential presence in the post-punk and alternative music scenes, approached this project with a distinctive vision. The album is a sonic journey through the looking glass of musical genres, as the band reinterprets and infuses their own signature style into each track. The result is a collection that not only pays homage to the original compositions but also showcases the band's ability to reinvent and breathe new life into existing works.
The production of "Through the Looking Glass" is a collaborative effort, led by the band itself along with the skilled touch of Mike Hedges. The collaborative nature of the production is reflective of the band's desire to maintain creative control and ensure that their unique artistic vision shines through in every note and arrangement.
Within the context of the late 1980s, a period marked by musical experimentation and the evolution of alternative and post-punk genres, Siouxsie and the Banshees' album made a distinctive contribution. It served as a bridge between the band's earlier sound and a more eclectic, experimental approach, reflecting the broader landscape of a dynamic era in music.
The album's selection of cover songs is diverse, ranging from the haunting rendition of Billie Holiday's "Strange Fruit" to the ethereal take on Kraftwerk's "Hall of Mirrors." Each track becomes a canvas for Siouxsie Sioux's mesmerizing vocals and the band's innovative musical arrangements. This diversity not only showcases the band's versatility but also pays tribute to the eclectic influences that shaped their musical identity.
"Through the Looking Glass" is not merely a collection of cover songs but a testament to Siouxsie and the Banshees' ability to transcend musical boundaries and create a cohesive, immersive listening experience. The album resonates with a timeless quality, as the band's reinterpretations continue to captivate audiences across generations.
Music Genre: Post-Punk / New Wave |
Album Production Information: The album: "SIOUXSIE & THE BANSHEES - Through The Looking Glass " was produced by: Siouxsie and the Banshees, Mike Hedges |
Record Label Information: Wonderland 838-474 |
Packaging:"SIOUXSIE & THE BANSHEES - Through The Looking Glass " includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos |
Media Format: 33rpm 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1987 Made in Germany |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: SIOUXSIE & THE BANSHEES - Through The Looking Glass |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "SIOUXSIE & THE BANSHEES - Through The Looking Glass " |
The detailed tracklist of this record "SIOUXSIE & THE BANSHEES - Through The Looking Glass " is:
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Siouxsie & the Banshees were a British rock band formed in 1976. The group was a key player in the post-punk movement, and their unique sound and image made them a standout act in the music scene of the late 70s and early 80s. The band was led by frontwoman Siouxsie Sioux, whose distinctive vocals and striking appearance helped to establish her as an icon of alternative music.
The band's early years were marked by a series of lineup changes. Siouxsie and her then-boyfriend, bassist Steven Severin, started the band as a way to express their dissatisfaction with the music of the day. Their first performances were raw and unpolished, but they quickly gained a following thanks to their energetic live shows and Siouxsie's striking stage presence. The band's first single, "Hong Kong Garden," was a surprise hit in the UK, and it helped to establish Siouxsie & the Banshees as a rising force in the post-punk scene.
Over the next few years, the band would release a series of influential albums that would help to shape the sound of alternative music for years to come. Their music was a unique blend of punk, goth, and new wave, with Siouxsie's powerful vocals at the forefront. The band's lyrics were often dark and cryptic, dealing with themes of death, violence, and existential despair. Siouxsie's image was just as important as her music - she was known for her dramatic makeup and distinctive hairstyles, which helped to create a powerful and iconic image for the band.
Despite the band's success, Siouxsie & the Banshees were never content to rest on their laurels. They continued to experiment with their sound, incorporating elements of world music and electronica into their later albums. Their 1988 album "Peepshow" was a particularly ambitious effort, featuring lush orchestration and intricate arrangements that set it apart from the band's earlier work.
Siouxsie & the Banshees disbanded in 1996, but their influence can still be felt in the music of today. The band's innovative sound and unique image helped to shape the alternative music scene of the 80s and beyond, and their impact can be seen in the work of countless artists who followed in their footsteps. Siouxsie Sioux herself remains an influential figure in music and fashion, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.