DanaHaynes's Music Collectibles 5-21 Sisters Of Mercy
Sisters of Mercy is a British gothic rock band formed in 1980 by singer Andrew Eldritch in Leeds, England. The band emerged from the post-punk and new wave scenes, with their music blending dark, atmospheric soundscapes with elements of rock, punk, and electronic music. Initially, the group was known for its minimalist and brooding approach, with early releases like the Burning Bright (Field of Fire) EP (1983) and the album First and Last and Always (1985) establishing their signature sound. The band’s lineup changed frequently, but Eldritch remained the constant creative force behind the group, often the sole member credited with writing the band's music and lyrics. Sisters of Mercy gained a loyal fanbase in the goth and alternative rock scenes, known for their haunting melodies, dark lyrics, and Eldritch’s deep, resonant voice.
Their music evolved over time, incorporating more industrial and electronic influences, particularly on albums like Floodland (1987) and Vision Thing (1990). Floodland marked the peak of their commercial success, with singles such as "This Corrosion" and "Lucretia My Reflection" becoming staples of goth and alternative radio. Despite their popularity, the band’s lineup was consistently unstable, and Eldritch became increasingly reclusive, often opting to perform with a rotating cast of musicians rather than a fixed band. Sisters of Mercy’s influence on the gothic rock genre remains immense, with their blend of dark, atmospheric rock and electronic experimentation inspiring a wide array of bands in the alternative and industrial music scenes.
