What makes Exorcising Ghosts by Japan notable?

'Exorcising Ghosts' was well-received, solidifying Japan's influence in the new wave scene. The album features standout tracks like 'Ghosts' which became an enduring favorite and showcased their unique blend of art rock and pop sensibilities. Released on November 26, 1984, 'Exorcising Ghosts' is Japan's final studio album before their breakup. Following the critical success of 'Tin Drum,' this album represents a shift towards more introspective and atmospheric compositions, showcasing the band’s evolution in sound as they disbanded shortly after its release.

Who is Exorcising Ghosts for?

Exorcising Ghosts works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, atmospheric background focus and introspective late-night vibes.

How many songs are on Exorcising Ghosts?

Exorcising Ghosts has 11 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

Exorcising Ghosts

Japan · 1984

61 min · 11 tracks · new wave

Ethereal soundscapes blend with smooth melodies, creating a haunting yet sophisticated atmosphere that defines Japan's signature style.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ghosts — This track epitomizes the haunting aesthetic of the album, combining lush instrumentation with introspective lyrics that explore themes of loss and memory.
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Gentlemen Take Polaroids — The title track captures the band's signature blend of moody synths and jazzy elements, making it a quintessential representation of their innovative approach to pop music.
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Night Porter — With its cinematic feel and rich orchestration, this track highlights the band's ability to create atmospheric soundscapes, becoming a fan favorite over time.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends atmospheric soundscapes with strong melodies, showcasing Japan's unique style while maintaining a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The album opens with a rhythmic pulse in 'Methods of Dance' that sets a steady mid-tempo pace, which is maintained through the first half.
Tracks like 'Ghosts' and 'Night Porter' feature layered synths and atmospheric production, creating a haunting soundscape that contrasts with the more melodic pieces.
The final three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, allowing for introspective moments that feel distinct from the earlier tracks.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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
introspective late-night vibes
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on November 26, 1984, 'Exorcising Ghosts' is Japan's final studio album before their breakup. Following the critical success of 'Tin Drum,' this album represents a shift towards more introspective and atmospheric compositions, showcasing the band’s evolution in sound as they disbanded shortly after its release.
Stylistic neighbors: Gary Numan· Duran Duran· Talk Talk