What does Tears on Tape sound like?

A somber blend of haunting melodies and heavy riffs that encapsulate the melancholy essence of gothic rock. Rooted in alternative rock and gothic rock. Start with "All Lips Go Blue".

Is Tears on Tape a good place to start with HIM?

Yes, Tears on Tape is recommended as a starting point for new HIM listeners. A somber blend of haunting melodies and heavy riffs that encapsulate the melancholy essence of gothic rock. Released in 2013, 'Tears on Tape' is HIM's seventh studio album, arriving after a four-year hiatus since their previous release, 'Screamworks: Love in Theory and Practice'. The band was at a crossroads, having recently parted ways with their long-time label, gaining independence while aiming to reconnect with their core sound.

Who is Tears on Tape for?

Tears on Tape works well if you're into haunting melodies with emotional depth, dynamic journey with peaks and short tracks for quick engagement.

How many songs are on Tears on Tape?

Tears on Tape has 13 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Tears on Tape

HIM · 2013

41 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock

A somber blend of haunting melodies and heavy riffs that encapsulate the melancholy essence of gothic rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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All Lips Go Blue Start here — This track features a compelling juxtaposition of melancholic lyrics and vibrant instrumentals, showcasing the band's signature sound evolution.
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Tears on Tape — The titular track captures the album's thematic core, blending introspective lyrics with a powerful chorus that emphasizes emotional depth.
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I Will Be the End of You — This song stands out for its darker tone and lyrical intensity, illustrating the band's ability to evoke raw emotions through their music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends gothic rock elements with emotional themes but lacks standout tracks that elevate it significantly.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features tracks that maintain a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces slower, more atmospheric pieces.
Several songs incorporate layered guitar riffs and synth elements, creating a dense soundscape that complements the melancholic themes.

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: 6/10
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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

haunting melodies with emotional depth
dynamic journey with peaks
short tracks for quick engagement
nighttime introspection and reflection

Maybe skip if you

prefer upbeat, fast-paced songs
seek standalone singles only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return after a hiatus, showcasing the band's enduring influence.
Themes: gothic romance· heartbreak reflections· dark love stories
Career context: Released in 2013, 'Tears on Tape' is HIM's seventh studio album, arriving after a four-year hiatus since their previous release, 'Screamworks: Love in Theory and Practice'. The band was at a crossroads, having recently parted ways with their long-time label, gaining independence while aiming to reconnect with their core sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Type O Negative· The 69 Eyes· Lacuna Coil