Trent Reznor, the genius behind the highly acclaimed industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails (NIN), is synonymous with the realm of Sexy Rock Music. Ask anyone even remotely familiar with the genre, and they will undoubtedly include NIN’s “Closer” in their Top 10 list.
But what about Trent’s other musical ventures? What about How To Destroy Angels, the band he formed with his wife, Mariqueen, and friend and collaborator Atticus Ross? What about his mesmerizing soundtracks, co-composed with Ross? And let’s not forget his remarkable remixes and covers.
Let’s dive into the lesser-known territory, where hidden treasures await.
Sensual Deep Cuts Playlist
1. All Time Low (Album: Hesitation Marks)
Kicking off the list is this energetic mid-tempo funk track that bears a striking resemblance to “Closer” (Trent even weaves in verses from “Closer” during live performances of “All Time Low”). With Adrian Belew’s dissonant 70s-style guitar, Pino Palladino’s staccato bass lines, and a drugged-out arpeggiator at the end, this song takes you on a wild, intoxicating sexual journey. The perfect way to start things off.
Adding a touch of angst, Trent’s industrial rendition of Queen’s deep cut from “News of the World” takes center stage. Produced by Ministry’s Al Jourgensen, Trent’s distorted vocals intensify his desperation and sexual frustration, contrasting Freddy Mercury’s confident declaration of being the “supplier of all things sexual.” Trent’s take is more like a plea, “Do what I say??? PLEASE?! BEFORE WE ALL DIE OF BLUE BALLS!!!!”
3. 27 Ghosts III (Album: Ghosts I-IV)
Keeping the angst and noise levels high, this super deep instrumental cut is part of a series of EPs called “Ghosts.” These EPs caught the attention of filmmaker David Fincher, who enlisted Trent and Atticus to compose scores for his movies. Fincher even included tracks from “Ghosts” in the soundtrack of “The Social Network,” to explore the contrast between a darker score and more upbeat rock songs by Elvis Costello.
4. Only (El-P Remix) (Album: Every Day Is Exactly the Same)
This slowed-down version of NIN’s hit single “Only,” remixed by hip-hop artist El-P, transforms the original disco feel into a sexually charged blend of beats and turntable effects. Although not directly produced by Trent, it is officially part of NIN’s catalog, known as the Halo canon. This track will undoubtedly work in your favor.
5. The Loop Closes (Album: Welcome Oblivion by How To Destroy Angels)
Almost instrumental, this track masterfully combines electronica and unique instrumentation, anchored by a “Closer”-esque beat. It escalates dynamically, starting softly and gradually ascending to a peak before releasing its energy with blippy electronic notes. It’s a treat to hear Trent and his wife harmonizing in the vocals.
A classic NIN track from a legendary album, “Reptile” may be a deep cut, but it embodies all the elements of Trent’s sexual frustration and despair. Take things to even darker depths (considering everything on this playlist has a dark tone) and revel in its raw intensity.
7. Closer (Precursor) (Album: Closer to God)
I know I promised to explore uncharted territory, so why is “Closer” making an appearance? Well, this remix by Coil breathes new life into NIN’s biggest hit. If you’ve ever seen the opening credits of the film “Se7en” (directed by the aforementioned David Fincher), you’ve already experienced this fantastic interpretation. It’s dirty, sludgy, long, and carries a slightly more unsettling vibe than the original.
8. A Familiar Taste (Album: The Social Network by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross)
This track is a revised version of a song from NIN’s “Ghosts” collection. However, I prefer this rendition. In the film “The Social Network,” it plays during a scene where Mark Zuckerberg imagines the wild parties he would love to attend, filled with young college women and nights of drunken, sexual revelry. It sets the stage perfectly for the next track on our list…
9. Vessel (Album: Year Zero)
I absolutely adore this track. It rivals “Closer” for the title of the sexiest NIN song of all time. Its pulsating, throbbing beat is ideal for those more passionate and aggressive sexual encounters. The noise, the blips, the groove – it’s simply perfect.
10. Consummation (Album: Gone Girl by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross)
This song ventures into the darkest depths on our list, and for good reason. Without giving away any spoilers for the film “Gone Girl,” let’s just say this track accompanies a poignant and violent scene. Use it as the climax of your ten-track Trent Reznor sex fest. With its slow pulse, rising cacophony (your speakers might feel like they are being torn apart), and explosive ending, it guarantees an unforgettable finale (pun intended).
11. Sugar Hurricane (Reprise) (Album: Gone Girl by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross)
As a bonus, let this track serve as your cool-down. It’s short but delightful to listen to, and it wraps up with a perfectly uplifting major key ending. The cherry on top of everything you’ve just experienced.
If you enjoyed this playlist, I’ve also compiled another collection of sexy rock songs that goes beyond Nine Inch Nails, which you can explore here: Sexy Rock Music – Top 10 Sexy Rock Songs
And yes, “Closer” might make an appearance near the end, as well.
