What makes As Time Goes By by Bryan Ferry notable?

This album is notable for its critical reception, earning praise from various publications for its elegant reinterpretations of classics. It reestablished Ferry's presence in music after a period of relative commercial decline, reaching number 31 on the UK Albums Chart, which underscored his enduring appeal. As Time Goes By marked Bryan Ferry’s return to the studio after a six-year hiatus following his album, Mamouna. Positioned as his first full-length studio album in the late 1990s, it showcases his exploration of classic jazz and pop standards, a departure from his earlier work that had leaned more heavily into new wave and rock.

Who is As Time Goes By for?

As Time Goes By works well if you're into nostalgic romantic evening ambiance, steady pacing for relaxed listening and for candlelit dinners.

How many songs are on As Time Goes By?

As Time Goes By has 15 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

As Time Goes By

Bryan Ferry · 1999

44 min · 15 tracks · new wave

A lush collection of timeless standards infused with Ferry's smooth vocals and sophisticated arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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As Time Goes By — The title track encapsulates the album’s theme, with Ferry’s emotive delivery enhancing the nostalgic resonance of this classic standard.
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I'm in the Mood for Love — Ferry's rendition transforms this romantic tune into a sultry experience, showcasing his ability to evoke deep emotion through phrasing and tone.
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You Do Something to Me — This track features a captivating arrangement that highlights Ferry's vocal range while maintaining an intimate atmosphere, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Ferry's elegant reinterpretations and cohesive arrangements create a sophisticated listening experience.

What we noticed

The album features lush orchestral arrangements that complement Ferry's smooth vocal delivery, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
Each track is a reinterpretation of a classic standard, with careful attention to phrasing and dynamics that highlight the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The sequencing maintains a consistent tempo throughout, with only slight variations that keep the listener engaged without abrupt shifts.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

nostalgic romantic evening ambiance
steady pacing for relaxed listening
for candlelit dinners
gentle background for intimate gatherings
reflective moments with warm melodies

Maybe skip if you

prefer energetic, upbeat tracks
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: As Time Goes By marked Bryan Ferry’s return to the studio after a six-year hiatus following his album, Mamouna. Positioned as his first full-length studio album in the late 1990s, it showcases his exploration of classic jazz and pop standards, a departure from his earlier work that had leaned more heavily into new wave and rock.
Stylistic neighbors: Roxy Music· David Bowie· Kate Bush