History of Draconian Times
Released on June 12th 1995 “Draconian Times” is the fifth studio album by Paradise Lost, one of the pioneers of gothic and doom metal. By the mid-90s the band had already gained recognition for blending doom heaviness with gothic atmospheres and this record elevated them to international acclaim. Produced by Simon Efemey the album struck the perfect balance between crushing riffs, melancholic melodies and emotional depth. Often hailed as the band masterpiece “Draconian Times” is considered a landmark in gothic metal history.
Artwork
The album cover, designed by Holly Warburton is a surreal and haunting piece that reflects the album lyrical depth. Featuring mystical, religious and mythological imagery it embodies the dark and introspective nature of the music. The artwork painterly style mirrors the gothic atmosphere of the songs making it not just a visual identity, but an extension of the album emotional journey.
Notable Tracks
- “Enchantment” – A brooding, epic opener that builds the album atmosphere with dark riffs and emotional intensity.
- “The Last Time” – Perhaps the most famous track on the album with a powerful chorus and strong gothic hooks. Is a fan favorite and a commercial success.
- “Forever Failure” – A bleak exploration of despair and hopelessness featuring chilling samples of Charles Manson.
- “Hallowed Land” – A melodic track that shows Paradise Lost gift for mixing heaviness with haunting beauty.
Why Draconian Times Is Iconic
“Draconian Times” is often referred to as the “Black Album of gothic metal” symbolizing both creative peak and commercial breakthrough. It perfectly merges gothic melancholy with metal power making it one of the most influential metal albums of the 1990s. Its success also paved the way for gothic and doom metal bands to find broader audiences. To this day, it remains a defining record not only in Paradise Lost catalog but also in the entire gothic metal genre.
Trivia
- The album peaked at #16 on the UK Albums Chart, one of the highest positions ever achieved by a gothic metal record at the time.
- “The Last Time” became a charting single in the UK, a rare feat for a gothic/doom band in the mid-90s.
- In 2011, Paradise Lost performed “Draconian Times” in full on tour, later releasing the live album “Draconian Times MMXI”.
- The song “Another Desire” written during the “Draconian Times” sessions, was excluded from the album and reissues but later appeared on the “Forever Failure” single.
Track listing
- “Enchantment” 6:04
- “Hallowed Land” 5:02
- “The Last Time” 3:27
- “Forever Failure” 4:18
- “Once Solemn” 3:03
- “Shadowkings” 4:41
- “Elusive Cure” 3:21
- “Yearn for Change” 4:19
- “Shades of God” 3:54
- “Hands of Reason” 3:58
- “I See Your Face” 3:17
- “Jaded”
Paradise Lost
Nick Holmes – vocals and lyrics
Gregor Mackintosh – lead guitar
Aaron Aedy – rhythm and acoustic guitars
Steve Edmondson – bass
Lee Morris – drums
