It’s been 35 years since Peter Murphy and Bauhaus released that gothic masterpiece Bella Lugosi’s Dead, and it stills sounds amazing. Understandably, given the length of time that’s elapsed since, Murphy tries to distance himself from it. In fact, he says he doesn’t listen to goth music. Well, he’s either telling a porky or, and this is more likely, he’s the walking embodiment of the sound, because Lion is another gothic masterpiece.
Murphy’s in fine voice – it’s still a powerful, dark rumble. It’s used to best effect on Hang Up, where it’s downright thunderous. I have no idea what the song’s about, what with lyrics like, “Come on over said the Trapper to the Gauth … Down in deep, I clocked all of you, to a place so fond, where even angels are allowed.”
In fact, every track sounds like it contains a hidden esoteric message and the whole album is heavy with a mythology that Murphy has created. It’s unsurprising then to learn that Murphy improvised the lyrics as the songs were recorded.
I’m On Your Side is the album’s only gentler track. It’s possibly a love song or an ode to loyalty. There’s industrial heft behind Lion, mixed in with some Prince-like guitar licks and it’s also quite ‘80s in terms of sound, but don’t take that as disparagement. The album bears playing again and again. It’s beautiful and compelling, although unsettling when you play it loud. Don’t do it if you’re full of caffeine – you’ll end up one jangling nerve.
BY MEG CRAWFORD
Best Track: Hang Up
If You Like These, You’ll Love This: Go Away White BAUHAUS
In A Word: Powerful
