1. The Number of the Beast by Iron Maiden
Released in 1982, The Number of the Beast is often considered a milestone in heavy metal history. It was the first Iron Maiden album to feature Bruce Dickinson as the lead vocalist, who brought a new level of intensity and theatricality to the band.
Impact on Cristina: Cristina Scabbia has often cited Iron Maiden as one of her primary influences. The album’s intricate guitar work, operatic vocals, and epic storytelling resonated with her, inspiring her to pursue a career in music. The track “Hallowed Be Thy Name” is particularly notable for its dynamic structure and emotional depth, elements that would later become hallmarks of Lacuna Coil’s music.
Key Tracks:
- “The Number of the Beast”
- “Run to the Hills”
- “Hallowed Be Thy Name”
2. Appetite for Destruction by Guns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses’ debut album, Appetite for Destruction, released in 1987, is one of the best-selling albums of all time. Its raw energy and rebellious spirit encapsulate the essence of hard rock.
Impact on Cristina: This album introduced Cristina to the gritty side of rock ‘n’ roll. Axl Rose’s distinctive voice and Slash’s iconic guitar riffs left a lasting impression on her. The rebellious attitude and emotional honesty displayed in tracks like “Sweet Child o’ Mine” and “Welcome to the Jungle” influenced her approach to songwriting and performance.
Key Tracks:
- “Welcome to the Jungle”
- “Sweet Child o’ Mine”
- “Paradise City”
3. Master of Puppets by Metallica
Released in 1986, Master of Puppets is widely acclaimed as one of Metallica’s greatest works and a defining album in the thrash metal genre. The album’s complex compositions and aggressive sound set a new standard for metal music.
Impact on Cristina: Metallica’s relentless energy and intricate musicianship captivated Cristina during her formative years. The album’s exploration of themes like control and manipulation resonated with her, and the powerful performance of tracks such as “Battery” and “Master of Puppets” showcased a level of musical precision and intensity that she aspired to achieve in her own work.
Key Tracks:
- “Battery”
- “Master of Puppets”
- “Welcome Home (Sanitarium)”
4. The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd’s 1973 masterpiece, The Dark Side of the Moon, is a landmark album in progressive rock. Its innovative use of studio effects, philosophical lyrics, and cohesive concept set it apart as a timeless classic.
Impact on Cristina: The album’s atmospheric soundscapes and introspective themes broadened Cristina’s understanding of music beyond the traditional rock and metal framework. It taught her the importance of creating an emotional and immersive experience for listeners, an element that can be seen in Lacuna Coil’s evocative sound.
Key Tracks:
- “Time”
- “Money”
- “Us and Them”
5. Back in Black by AC/DC
AC/DC’s Back in Black, released in 1980, is one of the best-selling albums worldwide. The album marked a triumphant comeback for the band, featuring the debut of vocalist Brian Johnson following the death of Bon Scott.
Impact on Cristina: The raw power and straightforward rock style of AC/DC struck a chord with Cristina. The album’s anthemic tracks, such as “You Shook Me All Night Long” and “Back in Black,” demonstrated the strength of simplicity in rock music. This influence can be seen in Lacuna Coil’s ability to blend catchy melodies with powerful instrumentation.
Key Tracks:
- “Hells Bells”
- “Shoot to Thrill”
- “You Shook Me All Night Long”
Conclusion
The albums that influenced Cristina Scabbia during her teenage years reflect a diverse range of musical styles and themes. From the epic narratives of Iron Maiden to the raw energy of Guns N’ Roses and AC/DC, each album contributed to her development as an artist. These records not only shaped her musical taste but also inspired her to create music that resonates with fans around the world. Cristina’s journey from a young music enthusiast to a leading figure in the gothic metal scene highlights the enduring power of music to inspire and transform.