This Corrosion Drifts Through Shadowy Melodies and Haunted Orchestration
Emerging from the shadowy depths of 1980s post-punk, Bauhaus’ “This Corrosion” stands as a haunting testament to the band’s pioneering vision within the gothic music scene. The track transcends mere categorization, blending swirling orchestral arrangements with Peter Murphy’s signature baritone vocals to create an unsettling yet undeniably captivating sonic experience.
The Genesis of Darkness: A Look at Bauhaus and “This Corrosion”
Bauhaus, formed in Northampton, England in 1978, quickly gained notoriety for their dark, introspective sound, which diverged sharply from the punk rock scene dominating the UK at the time. Spearheaded by vocalist Peter Murphy, guitarist Daniel Ash, bassist David J, and drummer Kevin Haskins, Bauhaus laid the groundwork for what would become known as gothic rock, a genre characterized by its atmospheric textures, melancholic melodies, and preoccupation with themes of death, existentialism, and romanticism.
“This Corrosion,” released in 1983 as the lead single from their third album “Burning From The Inside,” marked a significant departure from Bauhaus’ earlier, minimalist sound. While retaining their signature gothic ambiance, the track incorporated grand orchestral elements – sweeping strings, dramatic horns, and ominous percussion – lending it an epic, almost operatic feel.
The song itself is a complex tapestry of sonic contrasts: ethereal synth washes clash with driving rhythms, Murphy’s deeply resonant vocals alternate between mournful crooning and anguished pronouncements. Lyrically, “This Corrosion” explores themes of spiritual struggle, personal torment, and the seductive allure of darkness.
Dissecting the Darkness: An In-Depth Look at “This Corrosion”
“This Corrosion,” with its extended length of over six minutes, unfolds in distinct movements, each contributing to a sense of dramatic tension and release.
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The Overture (0:00 - 1:24): The track opens with a haunting orchestral intro – strings swell and recede, punctuated by the ominous toll of a distant bell. This establishes a mood of foreboding anticipation before Murphy’s vocals enter.
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Murphy’s Monologue (1:25 - 3:09): Peter Murphy’s voice, rich with theatrical inflection, takes center stage. He sings of “a poisoned heart” and “the hunger deep inside,” hinting at the internal struggle that fuels the song. The instrumentation remains sparse – a haunting bassline, punctuated by bursts of distorted guitar, underpins Murphy’s vocals.
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The Orchestral Crescendo (3:10 - 4:50): A dramatic shift occurs as the full orchestra joins in. Strings soar, brass blasts forth, and percussion pounds relentlessly. This section evokes a sense of overwhelming power and release, mirroring the lyrical themes of surrendering to primal desires.
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The Receding Shadows (4:51 - 6:07): The song slowly winds down, with the orchestral elements fading into the background. Murphy’s vocals become more fragmented and haunting, repeating the phrase “this corrosion” like a mantra. This final section leaves the listener with a sense of unease and unresolved tension.
Table: “This Corrosion” - A Breakdown
| Section | Time (minutes) | Instrumental Elements | Vocal Style | Lyrical Themes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overture | 0:00 – 1:24 | Orchestral strings, distant bell toll | N/A | Setting the mood of foreboding anticipation |
| Murphy’s Monologue | 1:25 – 3:09 | Haunting bassline, distorted guitar bursts | Theatrical, mournful | Internal struggle, hunger for darkness |
| The Orchestral Crescendo | 3:10 – 4:50 | Full orchestra (strings, brass, percussion) | Powerful, dramatic | Surrendering to primal desires |
- The Receding Shadows | 4:51 – 6:07 | Fading orchestral elements | Fragmented, haunting repetitions | Unresolved tension, sense of unease |
Beyond the Music: The Legacy of “This Corrosion”
“This Corrosion” cemented Bauhaus’ status as gothic rock pioneers. Its epic scope and darkly romantic sensibilities influenced countless bands in the years to come.
The track’s impact extended beyond the realm of music: its haunting visuals, including a captivating MTV video directed by Tim Pope, further solidified its place within goth subculture.
Even today, “This Corrosion” continues to resonate with listeners, its blend of dramatic orchestral arrangements and Murphy’s haunting vocals offering a glimpse into a world where darkness and beauty intertwine. It remains a testament to Bauhaus’ artistry and their enduring influence on the evolution of gothic music.