East of the Sun, West of the Moon
a-ha · 1990
45 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock · new wave · pop rock
Melodic synth lines intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating an atmospheric and emotive soundscape.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo reflective moments
- introspective soundscapes for solitude
- melodic synths for quiet evenings
- atmospheric listening on rainy days
Maybe skip if you want
- prefer upbeat party tracks
- seek instant gratification hits
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album solidified a-ha's status post-commercial peak, enhancing their international recognition.
- Themes
- nostalgic longing· post-pop maturity
- Career context
- East of the Sun, West of the Moon marked a pivotal moment in a-ha's career as their fifth studio album, following their commercial peak with 1988's 'Stay on These Roads.' By this time, the band was transitioning from mainstream pop hits to exploring more mature themes and complex arrangements. This evolution reflected their desire to push artistic boundaries while still appealing to their established fanbase.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Duran Duran· Depeche Mode· The Human League
- If this clicks, go next to
- Headlines and Deadlines – The Hits of A-ha — This album offers a collection of hits, maintaining the melodic synth sound while providing variety.
- Sounds like this from elsewhere
-
Hats by The Blue Nile — Shares atmospheric production and introspective lyrics with a lush, emotive soundscape.Spirit of Eden by Talk Talk — Explores complex arrangements and emotional depth, blending rock and electronic elements seamlessly.Violator by Depeche Mode — Combines melodic synth lines with dark, introspective themes, creating an immersive listening experience.
Tracklist
New here? Start with "Crying in the Rain".
- 1 Crying in the Rain Start here 4:24
- 2 Early Morning 2:58
- 3 I Call Your Name 4:53
- 4 Slender Frame 3:42
- 5 East of the Sun 4:47
- 6 Sycamore Leaves 5:21
- 7 Waiting for Her 4:48
- 8 Cold River 4:41
- 9 The Way We Talk 1:31
- 10 Rolling Thunder 5:43
- 11 (Seemingly) Nonstop July 2:55
What to play next
This album is considered a Breakthrough in a-ha's catalog. This album solidified a-ha's status post-commercial peak, enhancing their international recognition.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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