Introduction:
The Bee Gees, known for their disco anthems and soaring falsettos in the late 70s and early 80s, had a vastly different sound in their earlier years. Emerging in the mid-60s, the band experimented with various genres, including rock and roll, pop rock, and even psychedelic rock. Human Sacrifice, released in 1969, stands as a testament to this period of exploration.
Composed by the Gibb brothers themselves, Barry, Robin, and Maurice, Human Sacrifice showcased a distinct shift in their musical direction. The song moved away from the band’s earlier beat-driven pop sound and embraced the swirling guitars, distorted effects, and introspective lyrics characteristic of psychedelic rock. Human Sacrifice was produced by Bill Shepherd, who collaborated with the Bee Gees on many of their early recordings. Shepherd was known for his innovative production techniques, and his work on Human Sacrifice helped to create the song’s atmospheric and otherworldly soundscape.
Human Sacrifice didn’t achieve the same widespread commercial success as some of the Bee Gees’ later disco hits. However, the song has gained a cult following over the years and garnered critical acclaim for its originality and exploration of darker themes. Critics have praised the song’s innovative sound, with particular appreciation for the distorted guitars and the brothers Gibb’s unique vocal harmonies melding with the psychedelic soundscape. The cryptic lyrics of Human Sacrifice have also been a topic of discussion, with interpretations ranging from social commentary to explorations of love and desire.
While Human Sacrifice may not be one of the Bee Gees’ most well-known songs, it holds a significant place in their musical journey. The song serves as a reminder of the band’s creative versatility and their willingness to experiment with different sounds. Human Sacrifice stands as a unique entry in the Bee Gees’ discography, offering a glimpse into their psychedelic phase and showcasing their talent for crafting intriguing and atmospheric music.
Video:
Lyrics:
I see sheKnowing what I came here forGet a little of your womanifestationIf I can pinpoint this feelingWhen you gonna let it growWe can draw the line on where weLet the fingers go
Now I know meNever wanna lose controlMaking me the subjectOf your warm initiationIf I can pinpoint this feelingWhen you gonna let it showYou make me nervous but it’s now or never
Oh OhYou can be my message from aboveAnd it’s time to say you’re sorryWe can sanctify our loveOh noAnd you and I we’re written in the windYou can’t just go movin’ outYou can’t leave me when I’m movin’ inI want to be your human sacrificeI want to be your loverI want to be your human sacrificeI want to be your lover
It’s you or meGotta be a kill or cureMaybe undergo a lover’s operationNothing cuts like a knife canYou don’t wanna hurt me moreLook at all that damageWe could do together
Oh noYou can wear me closer to the boneIt don’t work to make me worryBut the demon seed is sown
Oh noAnd you and I we’re written in the skyYou can’t make me hold onBetter you shoot my love between the eyes
Your eyes on me on this table where I lieAnd what I see as fact is fictionYou won’t let me dieAnd I’m bound to be abusedI won’t let you cut me looseThis love is out to get youWhen the blood begins to flow