What makes Crowleymass by Current 93 notable?

Crowleymass is significant for its fusion of folk elements with avant-garde approaches, influencing the burgeoning neofolk scene. The album's thematic depth and unconventional sound garnered critical acclaim, establishing Current 93 as a key player in the underground music community. When Current 93 released Crowleymass in 1987, they were solidifying their presence in the neofolk genre after gaining attention with their earlier works. This album followed their critically acclaimed release, 'In Menstrual Night', and represented a deeper exploration into occult themes influenced by Aleister Crowley.

How many songs are on Crowleymass?

Crowleymass has 4 tracks, running approximately 25 minutes.

Crowleymass

Current 93 · 1987

25 min · 4 tracks · neofolk

A haunting blend of neofolk melodies and esoteric themes wrapped in a tapestry of ritualistic soundscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Crowleymass — The title track encapsulates the album's rich atmosphere through its layered instrumentation and mystical lyrics, setting the tone for the entire work.
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I Arise — This lengthy piece showcases a gradual build-up, merging spoken word with haunting melodies, reflecting the album's contemplative exploration of life and death.
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As for the Other Side (Christmassacre) — This track stands out for its stark contrast to the other songs, presenting an eerie yet captivating narrative that deepens the album's thematic complexity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Crowleymass blends neofolk with avant-garde elements, showcasing strong composition and craft while maintaining a distinct atmosphere.

What we noticed

The title track features layered vocals and instrumentation that build a dense, atmospheric soundscape over its duration.
The second track incorporates spoken word elements alongside traditional folk melodies, creating a contrast between narrative and music.
The final track employs minimalistic instrumentation, allowing the vocal delivery to dominate and evoke a sense of ritual.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified Current 93's presence in the neofolk genre after earlier attention.
Themes: Aleister Crowley mystique· dark ambient rituals· spiritual mortality
Career context: When Current 93 released Crowleymass in 1987, they were solidifying their presence in the neofolk genre after gaining attention with their earlier works. This album followed their critically acclaimed release, 'In Menstrual Night', and represented a deeper exploration into occult themes influenced by Aleister Crowley.
Stylistic neighbors: Death in June· Sol Invictus· Nature and Organisation