Flesh For Lulu Flesh For Lulu

Flesh for Lulu: The Rise and Fall of a Gothic Rock Icon

Formation and Early Success

Flesh for Lulu emerged from the vibrant post-punk scene in London in the early 1980s. The band comprised vocalist Nick Marsh, bassist David J, guitarist John Fryer, and drummer Stephen Mallinder. Their dark and atmospheric sound, characterized by brooding bass lines, distorted guitars, and Marsh's haunting vocals, quickly garnered attention.

Their debut album, "Big Fun in the Funeral Parlour" (1982), established their reputation as one of the leading lights of the nascent gothic rock genre. The album featured the haunting and enigmatic anthem "Decline and Fall," which became a signature track for the band.

Challenges and Controversies

As Flesh for Lulu's popularity grew, so too did the challenges they faced. Internal tensions and creative differences led to the departure of David J in 1983. The band continued as a trio, but the loss of their bassist took a toll on their sound and cohesion.

Moreover, their image and lyrical themes attracted controversy. Their exploration of death, decay, and nihilism alienated some audiences, who accused them of being morbid and depressing.

Discography

Over the course of their brief but impactful career, Flesh for Lulu released three studio albums:

* Big Fun in the Funeral Parlour (1982)
* The Gift (1983)
* As a Child (1984)

Each album showcased their unique blend of dark and atmospheric soundscapes, with tracks such as "Staring Glass," "The Milkman," and "Plastic Eyes" becoming cult favorites.

Members

* Nick Marsh (vocals)
* John Fryer (guitar)
* Stephen Mallinder (drums)
* David J (bass) (1982-1983)

Decline and Fall

By the mid-1980s, Flesh for Lulu had begun to unravel. Internal strife and the pressures of the music industry took their toll on the band. Their third and final album, "As a Child," failed to meet the expectations of their fans and critics.

In 1986, Flesh for Lulu disbanded, leaving behind a legacy of dark, atmospheric, and haunting music. Their influence continues to be felt in the realm of gothic rock and beyond, with numerous bands citing them as an inspiration.