Blue Angel
Strawbs · 2003
58 min · 13 tracks · progressive rock
A reflective journey blending progressive rock with folk influences, characterized by lush arrangements and introspective lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
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Blue Angel: Divided / Half Worlds Apart / The Rest Start here — This sprawling opening track encapsulates the album’s thematic core, merging complex time signatures with emotional storytelling over an expansive arrangement.
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There Will Come the Day — An uplifting anthem that blends rich harmonies with hopeful lyrics, illustrating the band's knack for creating poignant moments amidst intricate instrumentation.
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Rhythm of the Night — This track stands out for its infectious groove and melodic hooks, showcasing a more upbeat side of the band while still retaining their signature depth.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features intricate compositions and cohesive themes, though it may not significantly reshape its genre.
What we noticed
- The opening track is a multi-part suite that shifts through various tempos and moods, establishing a complex structure right from the start.
- Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that intertwine with intricate guitar work, creating a rich sonic texture.
- The album includes moments of quiet introspection followed by crescendos, particularly in tracks like 'There Will Come the Day' and 'Rhythm of the Night'.
- The last three tracks maintain a reflective tone, with 'The King' serving as a contemplative conclusion that echoes earlier themes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- wave-like pacing with resolution
- introspective melodies for deep listening
- dynamic exploration of emotions
- reflective moments for quiet evenings
- engaging storytelling across tracks
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer straightforward, short songs
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Revitalizes Strawbs' legacy, showcasing their continued creativity after a period of obscurity.
- Themes
- reflective journeys· half worlds apart
- Career context
- Upon the release of Blue Angel in 2003, Strawbs were revitalizing their legacy after a period of relative obscurity. This album marked their first studio release since 1998's The Broken Hearted Bride, showcasing a return to form that appealed to both long-time fans and new listeners.
Tracklist
- 1 Blue Angel: Divided / Half Worlds Apart / The Rest Start here 11:13
- 2 Oh So Sleepy 3:44
- 3 Further Down the Road 3:25
- 4 There Will Come the Day 6:05
- 5 Strange Day Over the Hill 3:56
- 6 Cry No More 3:18
- 7 The Plain 5:48
- 8 Do You Remember 3:12
- 9 Rhythm of the Night 3:19
- 10 Morning Glory 4:52
- 11 Sealed With a Traitor's Kiss 2:57
- 12 Lay Down 4:09
- 13 The King 2:38
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
The Snow Goose
Camel
Shares lush arrangements and a reflective narrative, blending progressive rock with a cinematic feel.
Liege & Lief
Fairport Convention
Combines folk influences with introspective lyrics, creating a rich tapestry of sound and emotion.
A Trick of the Tail
Genesis
Features a mix of progressive rock and lyrical depth, exploring themes of transformation and self-discovery.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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