The Sisters of Mercy was formed in 1980 in Leeds, England, by Andrew Eldritch and Gary Marx. Known for their dark, atmospheric sound and deep, brooding vocals, the band quickly became a prominent figure in the gothic rock scene of the 1980s. The band’s lineup has changed numerous times over the years, with Andrew Eldritch being the only constant member. They have released three studio albums: First and Last and Always (1985), Floodland (1987), and Vision Thing (1990). Each of these albums has been critically acclaimed and has significantly contributed to the gothic rock genre.
In addition to their studio albums, The Sisters of Mercy have released several live albums and compilation albums, including Some Girls Wander by Mistake (1992) and A Slight Case of Overbombing (1993). The band has achieved notable chart success, particularly in the UK. Their debut album, First and Last and Always, reached number 14 on the UK Albums Chart. Floodland, their second album, peaked at number 9 on the UK Albums Chart and included hits like “This Corrosion” and “Dominion/Mother Russia.” Vision Thing, their third album, reached number 11 on the UK Albums Chart and featured the hit single “More.”
THE SISTERS OF MERCY STUDIO ALBUMS
First and Last and Always
Released: March 11, 1985
First and Last and Always is the debut studio album by The Sisters of Mercy. It was recorded from June to November 1984 at Strawberry Recording Studios in Stockport and Genetic Studios in Reading, England. Produced by David M. Allen, the album marked the band’s transition from a post-punk band to a more gothic rock sound. The album reached number 14 on the UK Albums Chart and has since become a seminal release in the gothic rock genre.
The lineup for this album included Andrew Eldritch on vocals, Wayne Hussey on guitar and keyboards, Gary Marx on guitar, Craig Adams on bass, and Dr. Avalanche on drum machine.
CD Track Listings:
- “Black Planet” – 4:27
- “Walk Away” – 3:23
- “No Time to Cry” – 3:59
- “A Rock and a Hard Place” – 3:36
- “Marian (Version)” – 5:41
- “First and Last and Always” – 4:13
- “Possession” – 4:38
- “Nine While Nine” – 4:09
- “Amphetamine Logic” – 4:52
- “Some Kind of Stranger” – 7:19
Floodland
Released: November 13, 1987
Floodland is the second studio album by The Sisters of Mercy, recorded at Power Station Studios in New York City and Strawberry Recording Studios in Stockport, England. The album was produced by Andrew Eldritch and Larry Alexander. Floodland reached number 9 on the UK Albums Chart and includes some of the band’s most famous songs, such as “This Corrosion” and “Dominion/Mother Russia.” The album is known for its lush, atmospheric sound, blending gothic rock with symphonic elements.
The lineup for this album featured Andrew Eldritch on vocals and keyboards, Patricia Morrison on bass, and contributions from session musicians.
CD Track Listings:
- “Dominion/Mother Russia” – 7:02
- “Flood I” – 6:22
- “Lucretia My Reflection” – 4:57
- “1959” – 4:10
- “This Corrosion” – 10:55
- “Flood II” – 6:47
- “Driven Like the Snow” – 6:27
- “Never Land” – 2:49
Vision Thing
Released: October 22, 1990
Vision Thing is the third studio album by The Sisters of Mercy, recorded at Puk Recording Studios in Gjerlev, Denmark, and Powerplay Studio in Zurich, Switzerland. The album was produced by Andrew Eldritch and saw the band adopting a harder rock sound compared to their previous albums. Vision Thing reached number 11 on the UK Albums Chart. The album includes the hit single “More,” co-written by Jim Steinman.
The lineup for this album included Andrew Eldritch on vocals and keyboards, Andreas Bruhn on guitar, Tony James on bass, Tim Bricheno on guitar, and Dr. Avalanche on drum machine.
CD Track Listings:
- “Vision Thing” – 4:37
- “Ribbons” – 5:27
- “Detonation Boulevard” – 3:49
- “Something Fast” – 4:36
- “When You Don’t See Me” – 4:54
- “Doctor Jeep” – 4:40
- “More” – 8:25
- “I Was Wrong” – 6:03
Read More: Top 10 Sisters Of Mercy Songs