Is Behind the Sun a good place to start with Chicane?

Yes, Behind the Sun is recommended as a starting point for new Chicane listeners. A lush blend of melodic trance and atmospheric soundscapes that evokes both euphoria and introspection. Released in 2000, Behind the Sun marked Chicane's third studio album, following the critically acclaimed album, Far from the Sun. At this point in his career, Nick Bracegirdle had solidified his status as a prominent figure in the electronica scene, particularly known for his ability to craft immersive soundscapes that appealed to both mainstream and underground audiences.

Who is Behind the Sun for?

Behind the Sun works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, atmospheric background focus and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Behind the Sun?

Behind the Sun has 11 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.

Behind the Sun

Chicane · 2000

70 min · 11 tracks · electronica

A lush blend of melodic trance and atmospheric soundscapes that evokes both euphoria and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Low Sun Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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No Ordinary Morning — This track perfectly encapsulates Chicane's signature sound with its uplifting melodies paired with contemplative lyrics, making it a staple in chillout playlists.
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Saltwater (original mix) — 'Saltwater' stands out due to its ethereal vocals and sweeping synths, creating an emotional resonance that has made it timeless within the genre.
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Don’t Give Up (original mix) — Featuring a powerful collaboration with Bryan Adams, this track blends pop sensibilities with electronic elements, showcasing Chicane’s ability to cross genres effectively.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends melodic trance with atmospheric elements, creating an engaging yet introspective listening experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a cinematic overture that sets a lush, atmospheric tone, followed by tracks that maintain a steady mid-tempo pace.
The last three tracks shift towards more introspective soundscapes, incorporating ambient elements that contrast with earlier energetic pieces.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

long, immersive listening sessions
atmospheric background focus
dynamic emotional journeys
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Chicane's reputation with commercial success and critical acclaim.
Themes: melodic trance landscapes· ethereal vocal journeys
Career context: Released in 2000, Behind the Sun marked Chicane's third studio album, following the critically acclaimed album, Far from the Sun. At this point in his career, Nick Bracegirdle had solidified his status as a prominent figure in the electronica scene, particularly known for his ability to craft immersive soundscapes that appealed to both mainstream and underground audiences.
Stylistic neighbors: BT· Above & Beyond· Solarstone