PARADISE LOST – EMBRACING THE “ICON”

A tribute to Paradise Lost’s timeless album

There are certain albums that stand as pillars of influence, shaping the sonic journey for generations to come. Among these monumental works, Paradise Lost’s “Icon” holds a revered place, etching its mark on the very soul of gothic and doom metal. Myth of Rock finds great pleasure in paying tribute to this masterpiece, as, in a few days, we will have the honor to welcome Paradise Lost in Athens (and Thessaloniki) for two live shows, which will be based on the “Icon” album.

Released in 1993 via Music For Nations, “Icon” serves as a sonic manifesto, and was a pivotal moment for Paradise Lost, solidifying their transition from death/doom metal pioneers to gothic metal maestros. The album marked a departure from their earlier extreme sound, embracing a more melodic and atmospheric approach while retaining the haunting undertones that defined their identity.

The opening track, “Embers Fire,” sets the stage for the heavy, melancholic ventures that unfold throughout the album. Nick Holmes’ distinctive vocals, alternating between ethereal cleans and guttural growls, create an emotional depth that resonates with the listener. The guitar work of Greg Mackintosh and Aaron Aedy weaves intricate melodies, intertwining with the somber atmosphere crafted by the rhythm section of Steve Edmondson (bass) and Matthew Archer (drums). Each track on “Icon” possesses a unique identity, from the mournful beauty of “Joys of Emptiness” to the anthemic power of “True Belief.” The delicate balance between heaviness and melody, darkness and light, is a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess. It’s a sonic tapestry that reveals new nuances with each listen, a characteristic shared by timeless classics. Diving into the lyrical realm of “Icon,” Paradise Lost explores themes of despair, introspection, and the complexities of the human experience. The poetic richness of the lyrics adds layers of meaning to the music, inviting listeners to reflect on their own emotions and struggles. It’s a marriage of profound lyricism and evocative music that elevates “Icon” beyond mere sonic pleasure. The production quality is exemplary, allowing each instrument to breathe and contribute to the overall immersive experience.

We cannot ignore the profound impact “Icon” had on the gothic and doom metal genres. Its influence reverberated through the years, inspiring countless bands to explore the symbiosis of heaviness and melody. The album’s enduring legacy is evident in the continued relevance of Paradise Lost and the plethora of artists who draw inspiration from their groundbreaking work.

To sum up, Paradise Lost’s “Icon” is not just an album; it’s a masterpiece, a timeless piece of art that transcends the boundaries of its genre. Fans of gothic metal find themselves captivated by the album’s emotional depth, musical brilliance and lasting impact.

We have to add here that on the first of December, 2023, “Icon 30”, a full re-recording of this landmark album, will be released, on double vinyl with brand-new artwork, produced by Jaime Gomez Arellano. Vocals and drums were recorded in Arda Recorders in Porto, Portugal, while guitars and bass were recorded in Black Planet Studios, owned by guitarist Gregor Mackintosh. Vocalist Nick Holmes explained, “Our specific record deal around the time we signed for the “Icon” album meant we would never actually own the rights to our music or artwork, so going forward, to reissue the album ourselves for the 30th anniversary, it was necessary to re-record and completely re-do the album cover”.

Dimitris Zacharopoulos

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