Selling Heaven

 

4-track demo originally recorded in 1990
Re-recorded in 1993 and was a track on the 'Selling Heaven' demo released in Holland.

  
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'Selling Heaven.' is a story about a gambling man that has everything that money can buy, but he wants more. He is offered the deal of a lifetime, but has to pay with his soul.

This inspiration from this song came from 2 different places: Twilight Zone episodes and the Clive Barker book 'Weaveworld'.
There are numerous Twilight Zone's in which a mortal man makes a deal with the devil, but doesn't realize what he's done before it's too late.
The title of the song was inspired by Clive Barker's book entitled 'Weaveworld'; 'Selling Heaven' is the title of one of the chapters. Also in the book was a character named Shadwell. He was a salesman seduced by evil and had aquired a magical jacket. When he was 'negotiating' with his victims he would open it and they would see the thing their heart most desired in its magical lining. Shadwell would use this desire against his victims to get what he needed from them.
I sorted of melded a Shadwell character with the devil to create the main character for the song. The song is sung in the perspective of the 'salesman' trying to make a sale to a man that has everything money can buy. The 'salesman' always gets his sale.

So you say you're a gambling man who has everything 
But something on the inside still craves a little more
If you have a minute to listen and an eternal will
I have the deal you've been waiting for

A piece of the universe impossible you fret
Just shut up and move a little closer, I'm sure you won't regret
I'll make you an offer I know you won't refuse
Take your time and think about it, what do you have to lose?

I'm selling heaven
If you can afford the price
I'm offering a promise land
Full of joy and paradise

Take your faith young man, just set it aside
Follow the feelings of your heart that you have on the inside
Let your passions and lust take control 'cause I know they'll lead
You shan't have any worries, satisfaction is always guaranteed

Second thoughts start to arise
Just look into my eyes
Forget the rumors you heard 
They're vicious and absurd
You need not have any fears
I've been in business for years
My credentials will impress
My reputations is simply the best

I'm selling heaven
The answer to your prayers
I'll show you the light
And take away your nightmares

Don't keep me waiting this offer only comes once
You're trying my patience, now it's time you made up your mind
Here is my promise, I lay it at your feet
All you have to do is sign and the deal will be complete

A bloody John Hancock signed across the dotted line
You fell for the oldest trick 'cause now you're mine
I can see the terror mount on your face
As I take you into my dark and cryptic embrace

I didn't sell you heaven
I tricked you to hell
All your dreams are crucified
The fire will never subside

Now for my end of the bargain, your soul
You may be eternal, but in my control