This Corrosion - A Symphony of Darkness and Ethereal Beauty Intertwined

“This Corrosion,” a masterpiece by the renowned gothic rock band Sisters of Mercy, stands as a haunting testament to the power of music to evoke a spectrum of emotions. Released in 1987, this iconic track captivated listeners with its chilling lyrics, thunderous drumming, and Andrew Eldritch’s signature baritone vocals. The song transcends the boundaries of traditional gothic rock, incorporating elements of industrial, synth-pop, and even baroque orchestration, creating a soundscape that is both menacing and profoundly beautiful.

The Genesis of “This Corrosion”

To truly appreciate the depth and complexity of “This Corrosion,” one must delve into its historical context and the enigmatic figure who birthed it: Andrew Eldritch. Eldritch, a Yorkshire-born musician with a penchant for darkness and theatricality, formed Sisters of Mercy in 1979. The band’s early sound was heavily influenced by post-punk bands like Joy Division and Bauhaus, but Eldritch soon began to develop his own distinctive style, characterized by swirling synths, driving basslines, and poetic lyrics steeped in themes of love, loss, isolation, and the occult.

“This Corrosion,” however, marked a turning point for Sisters of Mercy. It was their first song to feature Gary Marx on guitar and Wayne Hussey on bass. Eldritch’s decision to incorporate live instrumentation alongside electronic elements significantly broadened the band’s sonic palette. The result was a track that was both powerful and atmospheric, capable of captivating audiences in both intimate clubs and vast concert halls.

Deconstructing “This Corrosion”: A Musical Journey

The song opens with a haunting melody played on a synthesized harpsichord, instantly transporting the listener into a gothic realm. As the tempo builds, a distorted guitar riff explodes onto the scene, driving the song forward with relentless energy. The rhythm section, anchored by Eldritch’s powerful drumming and Hussey’s melodic basslines, provides a solid foundation for the soaring vocals and intricate synth textures.

Eldritch’s lyrics are as enigmatic as they are poetic. He sings of “a world in decay” and “the serpent’s kiss,” weaving together images of darkness, death, and spiritual awakening. The chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “This corrosion eats away at my heart,” encapsulates the song’s central theme: the struggle against internal demons and the ever-present threat of self-destruction.

Table 1: Musical Elements of “This Corrosion”

The Legacy of “This Corrosion”

“This Corrosion” has endured as one of Sisters of Mercy’s most beloved and influential songs. It reached number seven on the UK singles chart, solidifying the band’s status as pioneers of the gothic rock movement. The track’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions: from chills down the spine to a sense of cathartic release.

It has been covered by numerous artists, including Marilyn Manson and Fields of the Nephilim, further testament to its timeless quality. “This Corrosion” continues to resonate with listeners today, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, beauty and transcendence can be found.