Bauhaus is an English rock band formed in Northampton in 1978. They are widely regarded as the pioneers of gothic rock, a genre that combines elements of punk rock, glam rock, and art rock with a dark, brooding aesthetic. Bauhaus is known for their atmospheric sound, theatrical performances, and influence on the goth subculture. Here is a detailed overview of Bauhaus, including their formation, members, musical style, and discography:
Formation
Bauhaus was formed by Peter Murphy (vocals), Daniel Ash (guitar), David J (bass), and Kevin Haskins (drums). The band originally named themselves Bauhaus 1919, in reference to the German art school that influenced their style, but they later shortened it to Bauhaus. Their debut single, “Bela Lugosi’s Dead,” released in 1979, became an instant underground hit and is often cited as one of the first gothic rock songs.
Members
- Peter Murphy – Vocals (1978–1983, 1998, 2005–2008, 2019)
- Daniel Ash – Guitar (1978–1983, 1998, 2005–2008, 2019)
- David J – Bass (1978–1983, 1998, 2005–2008, 2019)
- Kevin Haskins – Drums (1978–1983, 1998, 2005–2008, 2019)
Musical Style
Bauhaus’ music is characterized by its dark, atmospheric sound, which combines punk’s raw energy with the experimentalism of glam rock and art rock. They are known for their use of reverb-drenched guitars, haunting bass lines, and Peter Murphy’s dramatic, baritone vocals. Their lyrics often explore themes of existentialism, horror, and mysticism, contributing to their gothic image. The band’s visual aesthetic, influenced by German Expressionism and gothic literature, further cemented their status as goth pioneers.
Discography
Studio Albums
- In the Flat Field (1980) – Their debut album, featuring tracks like “Double Dare,” “In the Flat Field,” and “A God in an Alcove.”
- Mask (1981) – Including songs like “Kick in the Eye,” “The Passion of Lovers,” and “Hollow Hills.”
- The Sky’s Gone Out (1982) – Featuring “Spirit,” “All We Ever Wanted Was Everything,” and a cover of David Bowie’s “Ziggy Stardust.”
- Burning from the Inside (1983) – Including “She’s in Parties,” “Who Killed Mr. Moonlight,” and “King Volcano.”
- Go Away White (2008) – Their reunion album, featuring “Too Much 21st Century,” “Adrenalin,” and “Endless Summer of the Damned.”
Notable Compilations and Live Albums
- Press the Eject and Give Me the Tape (1982) – A live album featuring performances from their early career.
- 1979–1983 (1985) – A compilation album featuring their most popular tracks.
- Gotham (1999) – A live album from their 1998 reunion tour.
Legacy
Bauhaus has had a profound influence on the development of gothic rock and the goth subculture. Their music, characterized by its dark, atmospheric quality and dramatic flair, has inspired countless bands and artists in the goth and alternative rock scenes. “Bela Lugosi’s Dead,” in particular, is considered a seminal track in gothic rock and continues to be an anthem for the genre.
Despite disbanding in 1983, Bauhaus’ legacy has endured through their sporadic reunions and the continued popularity of their music. They reunited briefly in 1998, 2005–2008, and again in 2019 for live performances and tours, demonstrating their lasting impact and the enduring interest in their work.
Bauhaus’ contributions to music and culture extend beyond their sound; they helped to shape the visual and thematic elements of the goth subculture, influencing fashion, art, and literature. Their pioneering spirit and willingness to experiment with different musical styles have solidified their place in music history as one of the most influential bands in the gothic rock genre.
