What makes Alice EP by The Sisters of Mercy notable?

The Alice EP is significant for its impact on the gothic rock genre, influencing a wave of bands in the 80s and beyond. It received positive reviews upon release and helped the band secure a loyal fanbase, leading to chart success with subsequent releases. The Alice EP marked The Sisters of Mercy's transition from underground cult status to broader recognition, following their debut single, 'Damage Done,' in 1980. Released in 1983, this EP was crucial in establishing their signature dark wave sound, setting the stage for their later full-length albums.

How many songs are on Alice EP?

Alice EP has 4 tracks, running approximately 17 minutes.

Alice EP

The Sisters of Mercy · 1983

17 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

Gothic textures blend with driving rhythms and haunting vocals, creating an atmospheric soundscape that defines a pivotal moment in post-punk.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Alice — The title track encapsulates the EP's haunting aesthetic, merging ethereal lyrics with a driving beat, showcasing Andrew Eldritch's distinctive vocal style.
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Floorshow — With its upbeat tempo and engaging lyrics about desire and spectacle, 'Floorshow' highlights the band's ability to blend danceable rhythms with dark themes.
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Phantom — 'Phantom' stands out for its expansive length and brooding atmosphere, allowing for deeper exploration of the band's darker lyrical themes through intricate instrumentation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong gothic rock elements with cohesive tracks that maintain a dark, atmospheric sound.

What we noticed

The opening track, 'Alice,' features a slow build with layered guitars and a prominent bass line that sets a dark tone.
Each song maintains a consistent tempo, with rhythmic drumming driving the energy throughout the EP.
Vocals are delivered in a haunting style, often overlapping with instrumental sections to create an immersive atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Alice 3:34
2 Floorshow 3:41
3 Phantom 7:11
4 1969 2:45

What to play next

Listen next

First and Last and Always

1985

Go back to

Body Electric

1982

Full The Sisters of Mercy discography Artists like The Sisters of Mercy

alternative rock hard rock post-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata