What makes The Thorn by Siouxsie and the Banshees notable?

The Thorn received praise for its innovative sound, reflecting the band's evolution and setting the stage for future explorations in alternative music. It solidified Siouxsie and the Banshees' status as pivotal figures in the gothic rock movement, influencing countless artists in the genre. Released in early 1984, The Thorn is Siouxsie and the Banshees' fifth EP, coming after their critically acclaimed album A Kiss in the Dreamhouse. At this point, the band was solidifying their influence in the post-punk scene while experimenting with a more polished sound that would characterize their subsequent works.

How many songs are on The Thorn?

The Thorn has 4 tracks, running approximately 19 minutes.

The Thorn

Siouxsie and the Banshees · 1984

19 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of gothic rock and new wave, marked by ethereal vocals and atmospheric instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Overground — This track opens the EP with a driving rhythm and layered textures, establishing the moody atmosphere that defines the collection.
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Voices — With its ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics, this song highlights Siouxsie's ability to convey deep emotion through her vocal delivery.
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Placebo Effect — This track showcases an experimental edge, blending dissonance with melodic elements, pushing boundaries within the era's post-punk framework.

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

The Thorn showcases strong songwriting and atmospheric production, solidifying its place in the alternative rock landscape.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a layered synth backdrop that sets a haunting tone, which is maintained throughout the EP.
Each song features Siouxsie's ethereal vocals prominently, often accompanied by sparse yet atmospheric instrumentation.
The final track incorporates a gradual build-up, culminating in a climactic finish that contrasts with the more subdued earlier tracks.

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: Deep Cut — A solid EP that showcases the band's evolving sound but isn't a primary entry point.
Career context: Released in early 1984, The Thorn is Siouxsie and the Banshees' fifth EP, coming after their critically acclaimed album A Kiss in the Dreamhouse. At this point, the band was solidifying their influence in the post-punk scene while experimenting with a more polished sound that would characterize their subsequent works.
Stylistic neighbors: The Cure· Bauhaus· Joy Division