Fantastic Star cover

Released 30 years ago

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing with emotional peaks
  • exploration of love and longing
  • kaleidoscopic soundscapes for deep focus
  • for reflective late nights

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer standalone catchy tracks

Where this album fits

Career 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.
Stylistic neighbors
Soft Cell· David Bowie· The Sisters of Mercy

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Caged 5:38
  • 2 Out There 5:37
  • 3 We Need Jealousy 4:07
  • 4 The Idol (Parts 1 & 2) 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) 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

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata