Sisters of Mercy - Floodland - post-punk rock 12" Vinyl LP Album

Album Description:

In the world of post-punk history, few albums have achieved the iconic status and sonic grandeur of "Floodland" by the English rock band Sisters of Mercy. Released in 1987, this 12" vinyl LP stands as a testament to the dark, atmospheric, and utterly captivating world that the band crafted under the enigmatic leadership of Andrew Eldritch.

The Making of "Floodland"

"Floodland" emerged from the depths of artistic tumult within the Sisters of Mercy, a band known for their shifting lineup and mercurial sound. Led by the enigmatic Andrew Eldritch, the band underwent several personnel changes before solidifying for the recording of "Floodland". Eldritch assumed the roles of vocalist and producer for the album, a dual responsibility that allowed him to steer the ship of his artistic vision with unwavering precision.

The recording process was marked by meticulous attention to detail. Eldritch was determined to create an atmosphere that mirrored the album's dark and brooding themes. The hauntingly atmospheric synthesizers, thundering drum machine beats, and Eldritch's deep, resonant vocals coalesced into a sonic landscape that was simultaneously gothic and post-punk, creating a unique fusion that would define the album.

The Tracks

1. Dominion: "Floodland" opens with "Dominion", a track that sets the stage for the entire album. With its pulsating bassline and Eldritch's commanding vocals, it's a declaration of the band's intent to immerse listeners in their world of dark romance and sonic grandeur.

2. Mother Russia: A haunting and evocative track, "Mother Russia" explores themes of longing and nostalgia. Eldritch's vocals, drenched in reverb, convey a sense of melancholy that is both beautiful and haunting.

3. Flood I: "Flood I" serves as an atmospheric interlude, preparing the listener for the album's grandeur. It's a moment of respite before the storm.

4. Lucretia: A post-punk anthem, "Lucretia" features infectious guitar riffs and a propulsive rhythm that demands movement. Eldritch's lyrics and delivery add an element of mystique, drawing the listener deeper into the album's enigmatic world.

5. 1959: A departure from the album's darker themes, "1959" is a hauntingly beautiful ballad. Eldritch's vocals are vulnerable and emotive, showcasing his versatility as a vocalist.

6. This Corrosion: One of the album's standout tracks, "This Corrosion" is a bombastic, anthemic masterpiece. With its driving beat and memorable chorus, it remains a staple in the post-punk canon.

7. Flood II: Returning to the "Flood" theme, "Flood II" continues the album's sonic journey. It's a brooding, atmospheric piece that adds to the album's overall sense of mystique.

8. Driven Like The Snow: This track is a quieter, introspective moment on the album. Eldritch's vocals are tender, and the song's minimal instrumentation allows his lyrics to shine.

9. Never Land: "Floodland" concludes with "Never Land", a sprawling, epic track that encapsulates the album's grandiosity. Eldritch's vocals soar, and the song's lush production creates a mesmerizing sonic landscape.

Conclusion

"Floodland" by Sisters of Mercy is a post-punk rock masterpiece that continues to captivate listeners decades after its release. Andrew Eldritch's vision and meticulous production resulted in an album that remains a cornerstone of the post-punk genre.