In celebration of Halloween, I thought it appropriate to showcase one of the early Gothic rock classics. When it was originally released in 1979, it was lengthy (9:36) and abrasive song like nothing before it. Screeching guitars, looping feedback, droning drum passages and echo'y, distant vocals that sounded like it came from inside a coffin.
And the subject matter, Dracula of course!!! Bela Lugosi being the most recognizable film star depiction of our inexhaustible intrigue with Vampires. Did you know that the Dracula fictional character was based on real life Vlad the Impaler historical figure? And of course there is Bram Stoker's novel, not to mention the countless TV shows and movies of this genre that refuses to die, just like the refrain in this song "undead, undead, undead." During its day, the song featured prominently in the 1983 vampire movie, "The Hunger" with David Bowie and Catherine Deneuve.
The song is still challenging to listen to, more commercial-friendly radio listeners find this song repulsive. Just what Bauhaus intended, I am certain! The band initially started as Bowie and T-Rex glam rock imitators but quickly established their own distinctive gothic sound. Although Bauhaus was an underground sensation in the UK, the band dissolved in 1983, achieving greater success in the US as solo artist (Peter Murphy) and early alternative/college rock band (Love and Rockets).
This first single is what started it all. Enjoy the original and atmospheric Video. Awwwwwwwwhhhhhhhhhh!
White on white translucent black capes
Back on the rack
Bela lugosi's dead
Bela lugosi's dead
The bats have left the bell tower
The victims have been bled
Red velvet lines the black box
Bela lugosi's dead
Undead undead undead
The virginal brides file past his tomb
Strewn with time's dead flowers
Bereft in deathly bloom
Alone in a darkened room
The count
Bela logosi's dead
Undead undead undead
