
Emerging from the depths of late 1980s industrial music, “The Wanting” by Skinny Puppy stands as a testament to the genre’s power to evoke raw emotion and unsettling sonic landscapes. This Canadian band, known for their confrontational and often dystopian themes, crafted a piece that is both captivating and deeply unnerving.
To fully understand the impact of “The Wanting,” we need to delve into the history of Skinny Puppy themselves. Formed in Vancouver in 1982 by cEvin Key (who handles electronics and percussion) and Nivek Ogre (vocals), the band quickly gained notoriety for their abrasive sound, experimental use of sampling, and darkly theatrical live performances. Their early albums, such as “Remission” (1984) and “Too Dark Park” (1987), established them as pioneers in the industrial scene, blending elements of electronic music, noise, and avant-garde art.
But “The Wanting,” which appeared on their seminal 1988 album “VIVIsectVI,” marked a significant evolution for Skinny Puppy. The track’s haunting melody, built upon layers of distorted synths and grinding industrial rhythms, creates an atmosphere of dread and anticipation. Ogre’s vocals, delivered in his signature guttural style, explore themes of desire, isolation, and the corrosive nature of longing.
Musically, “The Wanting” is a masterclass in building tension. The track opens with a sparse, ethereal synth line that gradually builds in intensity as metallic percussion enters the mix. Ogre’s vocals then emerge from the sonic haze, his voice both pained and seductive. As the song progresses, layers of distorted guitars and rhythmic noise add to the oppressive atmosphere.
The lyrics of “The Wanting” are cryptic but deeply evocative. Ogre sings of a yearning so intense it borders on self-destruction:
“I’m drowning in the wanting/ My hands are clawing at the air”
He speaks of a desire that consumes him entirely, leaving him hollow and desperate. This theme of insatiable longing is reflected in the song’s relentless musical progression. There is no resolution, no catharsis; only a constant, gnawing sense of need.
Deconstructing “The Wanting”
To appreciate the complexity of “The Wanting,” let’s break it down into its constituent parts:
-
Vocals: Nivek Ogre’s vocals are arguably the defining element of Skinny Puppy’s sound. His raw, emotionally charged delivery adds a layer of visceral intensity to their music. In “The Wanting,” his voice shifts between pained whispers and guttural screams, perfectly capturing the song’s themes of desperation and longing.
-
Electronics: cEvin Key is a master of crafting industrial soundscapes that are both unsettling and hypnotic. He employs a wide range of electronic instruments and techniques, including synthesizers, drum machines, and samplers, to create textures that are simultaneously abrasive and beautiful. In “The Wanting,” the use of distorted synth lines and grinding rhythms creates an atmosphere of tension and unease.
-
Structure: Unlike traditional song structures with clear verses and choruses, “The Wanting” unfolds more like a sonic journey. It builds gradually in intensity, with layers of sound being added over time. This creates a sense of inevitability and foreboding.
-
Lyrics: Ogre’s lyrics are often cryptic and open to interpretation. In “The Wanting,” he explores themes of desire, isolation, and the corrosive nature of longing.
Element | Description | Effect |
---|---|---|
Vocals | Raw, guttural, emotionally charged | Creates a sense of urgency and desperation |
Electronics | Distorted synths, grinding rhythms, industrial textures | Builds tension and unease |
Structure | Unconventional, gradually building in intensity | Enhances the feeling of inevitability and foreboding |
Lyrics | Cryptic, exploring themes of desire and isolation | Adds depth and meaning to the song’s emotional impact |
The Legacy of “The Wanting”
“The Wanting” remains a pivotal track in Skinny Puppy’s discography and within the broader industrial music genre. It showcases the band’s ability to create music that is both sonically adventurous and emotionally resonant. The song’s haunting melody, unsettling lyrics, and relentless energy have ensured its lasting impact on generations of listeners.
Even today, “The Wanting” continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike as a masterpiece of industrial music. Its dark beauty and uncompromising intensity continue to inspire and challenge audiences.