"The Nephilim" is the second studio album by Fields of the Nephilim, released in September 1988 on Situation Two/Beggars Banquet Records. The album debuted impressively at number 12 on the UK album charts.
Recorded at The Justice Rooms, a former courthouse infamous for its history of hangings, the album took on a unique atmosphere. Bassist Tony Pettitt recalled the location as having a compelling vibe.
The opening track, "Endemoniada", shares its name with a 1968 Mexican horror film and incorporates a sampled line from Ron Perlman's character in "The Name of the Rose". The album's standout single, "Moonchild", draws inspiration from Aleister Crowley's novel, and "Love Under Will" references Crowley's "Book of the Law". References to H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu mythos appear in the lyrics of "The Watchman" and "Last Exit for the Lost".
"Phobia", the third track, stylistically resembles Motörhead's "Ace of Spades", featuring similar guitar riffs.
Interestingly, "Shiva", originally a B-side to the "Moonchild" single, is included only on the CD version of "The Nephilim" and was not part of the original LP release.
Overall, "The Nephilim" is notable for its dark, atmospheric soundscapes, deep lyrical themes, and references to occult and horror influences, solidifying Fields of the Nephilim's reputation as pioneers of gothic rock and alternative music in the late 1980s.
