The Sisters Of Mercy - Demos And Rarities Volume I

Demos and Rarities Volume I is an essential unofficial collection for the dedicated acolyte, gathering together the skeletal remains and unpolished gems from The Sisters of Mercy’s formative years. Spanning the period between 1981 and 1984, this volume tracks the evolution of the band from a raw, independent project in Leeds to the definitive architects of the "gothic" sound. These recordings offer a rare glimpse into Andrew Eldritch’s meticulously guarded creative process, featuring early studio outtakes and instrumental sketches that would eventually evolve into modern-rock standards.

The collection is highlighted by early, "primitive" versions of tracks that define the band's identity. Listeners can hear the developmental stages of "Alice" and "Floorland," alongside the legendary "Portobello Road" demo. Perhaps most interesting for fans are the tracks that showcase the band’s rhythmic experimentation before the production became highly polished; these recordings emphasize the interplay between the jagged, metallic guitars and the early, punishing programming of Doktor Avalanche. The atmosphere is thick, murky, and undeniably cold—a perfect representation of the band’s "no-compromise" early aesthetic.

This vinyl release is typically found as a limited edition pressing, often featuring monochrome, minimalist artwork that pays homage to the band's own Merciful Release label designs. While these are unofficial recordings, the audio is largely sourced from high-quality studio generation tapes rather than live "bootlegs," ensuring a clear and immersive listening experience. For the collector who has everything else, Demos and Rarities Volume I provides the necessary context for the band’s rise, documenting the raw grit that existed before the smoke and the stadium lights.