We Are Going To Heaven Melds Euphoric Vocals With Pulsating Industrial Rhythms

Diving deep into the abyssal soundscapes of industrial music, one encounters a treasure trove of sonic experiments and radical artistic expressions. This genre, often characterized by its jarring juxtapositions of harsh textures and melodic hooks, has spawned some truly unforgettable experiences for the listener. Among these auditory anomalies lies “We Are Going To Heaven,” a potent track from Front Line Assembly’s 1989 album, Millennium.

Front Line Assembly, a Canadian industrial music collective spearheaded by Rhys Fulber and Bill Leeb, emerged in the mid-1980s as part of the burgeoning Vancouver underground scene. Their sound was a unique blend of industrial dance rhythms, synthesizer experimentation, and bleak yet ultimately hopeful lyrical themes. “We Are Going To Heaven” exemplifies this approach perfectly, encapsulating both the visceral intensity and introspective qualities that define their music.

The track opens with an unsettling atmosphere. Discordant synth washes swirl and pulsate, creating a sense of unease and foreshadowing the sonic onslaught to come. As the rhythm section kicks in, the listener is bombarded with driving electronic beats punctuated by metallic clangs and distorted guitar samples. It’s a relentless sonic assault that echoes the industrial soundscapes pioneered by bands like Throbbing Gristle and Skinny Puppy, but with Front Line Assembly’s distinctive melodic sensibility layered on top.

Amidst this sonic chaos, Leeb’s vocals emerge. His voice, imbued with an ethereal quality, floats above the driving rhythms, delivering lyrics that speak of transcendence and a yearning for something beyond the mundane. Lines like “We are going to heaven, let me show you” and “There is no fear in paradise,” paint a vivid picture of escape and spiritual liberation, contrasting sharply with the harsh industrial backdrop. This juxtaposition is one of the hallmarks of Front Line Assembly’s sound: the ability to seamlessly blend bleakness and beauty, darkness and light.

The song structure itself is unconventional. There are no clearly defined verses or choruses, instead opting for a cyclical build-up of tension and release. The instrumentation shifts and evolves throughout, incorporating layers of synths, distorted guitars, and sampled sounds that create a constantly shifting sonic landscape. This approach keeps the listener engaged, never allowing them to settle into a comfortable groove.

“We Are Going To Heaven” is a prime example of Front Line Assembly’s ability to push the boundaries of industrial music. It’s a track that simultaneously challenges and captivates, leaving a lasting impression on the listener long after the final notes have faded. For those unfamiliar with this genre, it serves as an excellent introduction to the sonic possibilities of industrial music.

Beyond its musical merits, “We Are Going To Heaven” holds a cultural significance within the industrial scene. Released during a time when industrial music was gaining mainstream attention, the track became an anthem for a generation disillusioned with societal norms and seeking alternative paths to fulfillment. Its message of hope and transcendence resonated deeply with audiences, cementing its place as a classic within the genre.

Front Line Assembly continued to evolve their sound throughout the 1990s, experimenting with elements of techno, trance, and even ambient music. However, “We Are Going To Heaven” remains a touchstone for their work, embodying the core principles that have made them one of the most influential industrial bands of all time: a willingness to experiment, a dedication to pushing sonic boundaries, and an ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.