What makes First and Last and Always by The Sisters of Mercy notable?

The album reached number 14 on the UK Albums Chart, marking a significant commercial breakthrough for the band. Its influence on the dark wave and gothic scenes is profound, with many subsequent artists citing it as a key inspiration in shaping the sound of the 1980s alternative music landscape. Released on March 11, 1985, 'First and Last and Always' was The Sisters of Mercy's debut studio album, following their well-received EPs. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from underground success to mainstream recognition, solidifying their place within the gothic rock genre.

Who is First and Last and Always for?

First and Last and Always works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on First and Last and Always?

First and Last and Always has 10 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

First and Last and Always

The Sisters of Mercy · 1985

46 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock · hard rock · post-punk

Gothic rock anthems swirl around haunting melodies and driving rhythms, creating an evocative sonic landscape.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on March 11, 1985, 'First and Last and Always' was The Sisters of Mercy's debut studio album, following their well-received EPs. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from underground success to mainstream recognition, solidifying their place within the gothic rock genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Fields of the Nephilim· Bauhaus· The Mission

Tracklist

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

1 Black Planet 4:28
2 Walk Away 3:23
3 No Time to Cry 4:06
4 A Rock and a Hard Place 3:36
5 Marian (version) 5:45
6 First and Last and Always 4:02
7 Possession 4:39
8 Nine While Nine 4:12
9 Amphetamine Logic 4:54
10 Some Kind of Stranger 7:20

What to play next

Listen next

Floodland

1987

Go back to

Body and Soul

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

alternative rock hard rock post-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata