The Great Commandment Explores Echoes of Gregorian Chant Within a Sonic Landscape of Gritty Industrial Textures

“The Great Commandment,” a chilling and mesmerizing track by Coil, exemplifies the innovative spirit of industrial music at its finest. Released in 1992 as part of the album Love’s Secret Domain, the piece transcends the typical sonic boundaries of the genre, weaving together disparate elements into a tapestry that is both unsettling and strangely beautiful. It acts as a microcosm of Coil’s broader sound - experimental, confrontational, and deeply enigmatic.

To understand “The Great Commandment,” we need to delve into the history of Coil themselves. Formed in 1982 by John Balance and Peter Christopherson, Coil were pioneers in the development of industrial music. Their sound was characterized by its unconventional instrumentation (they frequently incorporated found sounds and manipulated recordings), dark lyrical themes, and a willingness to experiment with extreme sonic textures.

The duo’s musical journey was marked by several collaborations, most notably with Sleazy, who played a pivotal role in shaping Coil’s sound during their early years. Other collaborators included Drew McDowall and Thighpaulsandra, further expanding the band’s sonic palette.

Coil’s music often explored occult themes, sexual deviance, and psychological disturbance. They challenged societal norms and pushed boundaries with their uncompromising approach to art. Their work was not for the faint of heart – it demanded attention, reflection, and a willingness to confront the darker aspects of human existence.

“The Great Commandment,” however, takes on a different hue within Coil’s often-intense discography. While retaining the band’s signature industrial sound, characterized by pulsating synths and distorted vocals, the track incorporates unexpected elements. Haunting Gregorian chants interweave with the harsh electronic textures, creating a fascinating juxtaposition that adds an element of spiritual searching to the otherwise bleak sonic landscape.

The lyrics, cryptic as always, further contribute to the enigmatic nature of the piece:

“Come, let us worship and bow down” “Let us kneel before the Lord our maker.” “For he is our God; we are the people of his pasture”

These lines, taken from Psalm 95:6-7, speak of reverence and submission to a higher power. Yet, when juxtaposed against Coil’s industrial soundscape, they take on a more unsettling tone. Are they expressing genuine faith or a sardonic commentary on religious dogma? The ambiguity is part of what makes “The Great Commandment” so compelling – it invites listeners to grapple with the complexities of faith, doubt, and the human condition.

Analyzing the Sonic Landscape

The track’s structure unfolds gradually, starting with eerie synthesized drones that slowly build in intensity. Rhythmic patterns emerge, punctuated by clattering industrial percussion and distorted vocal samples. The Gregorian chants weave in and out of the sonic tapestry, their ethereal quality contrasting sharply with the harsh electronic textures.

This intricate layering creates a sense of depth and complexity, inviting listeners to explore different sonic dimensions within the piece.

“The Great Commandment”: A Legacy of Innovation

“The Great Commandment” remains a significant piece in Coil’s discography and within the broader context of industrial music. It demonstrates the genre’s capacity for innovation and its ability to transcend traditional musical boundaries. The track’s fusion of Gregorian chant with industrial textures is both groundbreaking and hauntingly beautiful, solidifying Coil’s place as innovators and provocateurs.

The song’s enduring influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary artists who continue to explore the intersections of noise, ritual, and electronic music. “The Great Commandment” stands as a testament to Coil’s visionary spirit, reminding us that true artistic innovation often lies in embracing the unexpected and challenging the listener’s preconceived notions.

Whether you are a seasoned industrial music aficionado or simply curious about exploring new sonic territories, “The Great Commandment” offers a captivating journey into the heart of darkness and the transcendent power of sound.