What makes 666 Ways to Love: Prologue by HIM notable?

The EP garnered attention for its innovative fusion of gothic and alternative rock elements, laying the groundwork for HIM's later commercial success. The cover of Chris Isaak's 'Wicked Game' became particularly notable, showcasing the band's ability to reinterpret existing tracks in a way that resonated with both gothic and mainstream audiences. Released in 1996, '666 Ways to Love: Prologue' was HIM's debut EP, introducing their unique sound to the world. This project came as a precursor to their breakthrough album, 'Greatest Lovesongs Vol. 666', which would further solidify their presence in the gothic metal scene.

How many songs are on 666 Ways to Love: Prologue?

666 Ways to Love: Prologue has 4 tracks, running approximately 19 minutes.

Released 30 years ago this October

666 Ways to Love: Prologue

HIM · 1996

19 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of gothic melodies and alternative rock textures that encapsulates love's darker, more obsessive facets.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wicked Game — This track stands out for its emotive reinterpretation of a classic song, marrying melancholic lyrics with haunting instrumentals that exemplify HIM's signature style.
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Stigmata Diaboli — Opening with dark, atmospheric guitar riffs, this song sets the tone for the EP, showcasing thematic explorations of love intertwined with pain and longing.
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Dark Sekret Love — With its brooding lyrics and intense instrumentation, this track delves deep into the complexities of obsessive love, capturing the essence of HIM's artistic vision.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases HIM's early sound with strong gothic influences and solid craftsmanship, though it lacks the depth of their later work.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a slow, atmospheric build-up that introduces layered guitar textures and haunting vocals.
The cover of 'Wicked Game' features a slower tempo than the original, emphasizing its gothic elements through reverb-laden instrumentation.
The EP concludes with a track that incorporates both melodic and dissonant elements, creating an unsettling yet engaging atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Introduced HIM's unique sound, leading to their later commercial success.
Themes: gothic romance· darkly romantic love· inner conflict· Finnish gothic scene
Career context: Released in 1996, '666 Ways to Love: Prologue' was HIM's debut EP, introducing their unique sound to the world. This project came as a precursor to their breakthrough album, 'Greatest Lovesongs Vol. 666', which would further solidify their presence in the gothic metal scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Type O Negative· The 69 Eyes· Lacuna Coil