Numerous warnings from a label known for bludgeoning releases and an artist known for darkness that Smell of Rain is a departure might not be enough to prepare devotees of both for this disc. Though he is primarily known for dark, ambient atmospheric keyboard swells, the third Mortiis release (not including the rarity collection Crypt of the Wizard) is nothing short of synth pop with nods to classics of the genre. Lead track "Scar Trek/Parasite God" could have been on that fateful David Bowie techno attempt, and the majority of the rest wouldn't seem out of place alongside New Order's repertoire or even Pretty Hate Machine. Some fans will likely decry this new attitude as wimpy, however those with an open mind will find Smell of Rain to be a smart pop exercise that still manages to be emotive. ~ Brian O'Neill, All Music Guide
The Smell of Rain is the name of an album released by solo artist Mortiis in 2001.
The initial CD press run for Germany contained a bonus DVD including the 'Parasite God' video. The LP was a double gatefold with a 12" lyric insert. A remastered version was released later, as Mortiis requested. It contained four remixed songs. Initial attempts at getting the CD booklet printed as transparent layers of art and text was turned down by the label, several times. Though this was done for the next album (The Grudge) as a "Strictly Ltd Edition 'Decadent' PVC Sleeve".
The artwork was produced by Johan Hammarman.
Released in 2001 under the Earache label. This was the first album where Mortiis took the role as lead vocalist, which had previously been filled by Sarah Jezebel Deva.
Mortiis looks back on this album, and is amazed at how 'gothic' it sounds - even though it wasn't intended.[citation needed] In the booklet, Mortiis is seen unmasked under the pseudonym of 'John Prozac'.
On the back of the album, there is a circle with symbols inside. This is a form of the 'Secret Seal of Solomon'.
Track listing
"Scar Trek / Parasite God" – 6:02
"Flux / Mental Maelstrom" – 6:46
"Spirit in a Vacuum" – 4:53
"Monolith" – 3:59
"You Put a Hex on Me" – 5:45
"Everyone Leaves" – 6:41
"Marshland" – 4:43
"Antimental" – 6:17
"Smell the Witch" – 5:43
The following tracks were remixes available on a special remastered edition released in 2002:
"Paranoid God Pt.1 (the iconoclast mix)" – 7:00 - Brian Lustmord
"Marshland (the excursion mix)" – 4:40 - Raven Fox
