Originally released in 1985, First and Last and Always marked the powerful full-length debut from The Sisters of Mercy, defining the gothic rock sound that would influence generations to come. Formed in Leeds in 1980 by Gary Marx and Andrew Eldritch, the band had already built a devoted cult following through a string of independent singles and EPs. By the time this landmark album dropped, the lineup included Wayne Hussey and Craig Adams, both of whom would later go on to form The Mission.

Featuring brooding anthems like “Marian,” “No Time to Cry,” and “Some Kind of Stranger,” the album peaked at #14 on the UK charts and became a cornerstone of the post-punk and darkwave scenes.

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, this deluxe edition is pressed on limited edition black & red marble vinyl, available as both a standalone LP in a faithfully reproduced gatefold jacket and as part of a box set that includes the band’s early EPs—Body & Soul, Walk Away, and No Time To Cry—all featuring non-album tracks.

Side A

1. Black Planet

2. Walk Away

3. No Time to Cry

4. A Rock and a Hard Place

5. Marian (Version)

Side B

1. First and Last and Always

2. Possession

3. Nine While Nine

4. Amphetamine Logic

5. Some Kind of Stranger