Fantastic Star cover

Fantastic Star

Marc Almond · 1996

77 min · 16 tracks · new wave · dark cabaret

A kaleidoscopic blend of dark cabaret and new wave that explores love, longing, and existential angst.

Why this album works

Best for
steady pacing with emotional peaks exploration of love and longing kaleidoscopic soundscapes for deep focus
Context
Released on February 19, 1996, 'Fantastic Star' was Marc Almond’s fifth studio album, following his commercially successful 'Open All Night' in 1993. At this point in his career, Almond was exploring more experimental sounds while continuing to build on the theatricality he became known for during his time with Soft Cell and as a solo artist. This album marked a period of artistic reinvention as he delved deeper into themes of desire and melancholy.
If you like
new wave, dark cabaret

Fantastic Star is an album by Marc Almond, released in 1996. A kaleidoscopic blend of dark cabaret and new wave that explores love, longing, and existential angst. 'Fantastic Star' received critical acclaim, particularly for its lyrical depth and musical experimentation. It demonstrated Almond's continued relevance in the music scene of the '90s, charting in various countries and solidifying his status within the dark cabaret movement. The album highlighted Almond's unique blend of pop sensibilities with darker, introspective themes. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Fantastic Star sound like?

A kaleidoscopic blend of dark cabaret and new wave that explores love, longing, and existential angst. Rooted in new wave and dark cabaret.

What makes Fantastic Star by Marc Almond notable?

'Fantastic Star' received critical acclaim, particularly for its lyrical depth and musical experimentation. It demonstrated Almond's continued relevance in the music scene of the '90s, charting in various countries and solidifying his status within the dark cabaret movement. The album highlighted Almond's unique blend of pop sensibilities with darker, introspective themes. Released on February 19, 1996, 'Fantastic Star' was Marc Almond’s fifth studio album, following his commercially successful 'Open All Night' in 1993. At this point in his career, Almond was exploring more experimental sounds while continuing to build on the theatricality he became known for during his time with Soft Cell and as a solo artist. This album marked a period of artistic reinvention as he delved deeper into themes of desire and melancholy.

Who is Fantastic Star for?

Fantastic Star works well if you're into steady pacing with emotional peaks, exploration of love and longing and kaleidoscopic soundscapes for deep focus.

How many songs are on Fantastic Star?

Fantastic Star has 16 tracks, running approximately 77 minutes.

Tracklist

16 tracks·77:01

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Caged Standout 5:38
  • 2 Out There 5:37
  • 3 We Need Jealousy 4:07
  • 4 The Idol (Parts 1 & 2) Standout 9:03
  • 5 Baby Night Eyes 3:39
  • 6 Adored and Explored 3:53
  • 7 Child Star 4:04
  • 8 Looking for Love (In All the Wrong Places) Standout 5:43
  • 9 Addicted 4:07
  • 10 The Edge of Heartbreak 4:49
  • 11 Love to Die For 4:02
  • 12 Betrayed 3:20
  • 13 On the Prowl 3:53
  • 14 Come In Sweet Assassin 4:59
  • 15 Brilliant Creatures 5:28
  • 16 Shining Brightly 4:31

Release Date

February 19, 1996

Genre

dark cabaret, new wave

More albums in dark cabaret

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

77 min 1 sec