
“The Becoming”, a standout track from the pioneering industrial band Coil, plunges listeners into a sonic abyss marked by haunting melodic textures intertwined with aggressive industrial rhythms. Released in 1996 on their album “Astral Mutations”, this particular piece embodies Coil’s unique ability to fuse experimental sound design with deeply evocative lyrics, creating an experience that is both unsettling and profoundly moving.
Coil, formed in 1982 by John Balance and Peter Christopherson (formerly of Throbbing Gristle), emerged from the fertile post-punk underground scene of England. Their early work was characterized by a dark and unsettling atmosphere, drawing inspiration from occult themes, psychogeography, and experimental electronic music. With “The Becoming,” Coil continued to push their sonic boundaries, incorporating elements of ambient techno, noise, and even folk into their already eclectic sound palette.
John Balance, the enigmatic vocalist and lyricist, possessed an ethereal voice capable of conveying a wide range of emotions, from serene contemplation to raw, visceral anguish. His lyrics often explored themes of identity, transformation, and the occult, adding a layer of intellectual depth to Coil’s music.
The track “The Becoming” unfolds gradually, starting with a delicate synth melody that shimmers like moonlight on water. This initial tranquility is soon shattered by the introduction of harsh industrial rhythms, distorted guitars, and guttural vocalizations. The song builds in intensity throughout its duration, culminating in a cathartic climax characterized by pounding drums, swirling synths, and Balance’s haunting vocals reaching their peak intensity.
Musically, “The Becoming” showcases Coil’s mastery of sound design. Christopherson, a gifted audio engineer, utilized a wide range of instruments and techniques to create the track’s rich sonic tapestry. Samples of found sounds, manipulated recordings of natural phenomena, and synthesized textures are woven together seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that is both immersive and unsettling.
Dissecting the Soundscape:
Here’s a closer look at some key elements that contribute to “The Becoming"s unique sound:
Element | Description |
---|---|
Synth Melodies | Eerie and haunting, with a melancholic undercurrent. |
Industrial Rhythms | Harsh and driving, creating a sense of relentless forward motion. |
Distorted Guitars | Provide textural grit and dissonance, adding to the song’s unsettling atmosphere. |
Guttural Vocals | Convey raw emotion and visceral intensity, juxtaposing the ethereal synth melodies. |
Found Sounds | Integrate everyday sounds into the sonic fabric, blurring the lines between music and reality. |
The lyrics of “The Becoming” further enhance its impact. John Balance’s words are cryptic and suggestive, evoking a sense of metamorphosis and spiritual transformation. He explores themes of shedding old identities, embracing change, and confronting the darker aspects of the self.
While open to interpretation, some listeners have suggested that “The Becoming” reflects on the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. Others have drawn connections to mythology and esoteric traditions, seeing it as a sonic representation of spiritual awakening or ascension.
A Lasting Legacy:
“The Becoming”, alongside other seminal Coil tracks like “Tainted Love” and “Windowpane”, solidified their place as one of the most influential and innovative industrial bands of all time. Their music continues to inspire and challenge listeners, blurring genre boundaries and pushing the limits of sonic exploration.
For those venturing into the world of industrial music, “The Becoming” serves as an excellent entry point. It offers a taste of Coil’s signature blend of dark beauty, unsettling atmosphere, and experimental ingenuity, while also highlighting their mastery of sound design and lyricism.
So, dim the lights, put on your headphones, and let “The Becoming” guide you through a sonic landscape where haunting melodies collide with aggressive rhythms, creating an unforgettable musical experience. Remember, it’s not for the faint of heart – but for those willing to embrace the darkness, it can be a truly rewarding journey.