Flashpoint
Tangerine Dream · 1984
37 min · 10 tracks · electronic music
A vibrant tapestry of synthesizers creating a sonic landscape that captures the essence of modern exploration and adventure.
Top tracks — play these first
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Going West Start here — The opening track sets the thematic tone for the album, featuring expansive synth melodies that evoke vast landscapes and a sense of journey.
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Afternoon in the Desert — This track captures a tranquil yet evocative atmosphere, utilizing layered synths to conjure imagery of serene desert vistas.
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Flashpoint — The title track encapsulates the album's core themes with dynamic rhythms and intricate arrangements, showcasing Tangerine Dream's signature sound.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong compositional themes and a cohesive sound while maintaining a distinct electronic identity.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of layered synthesizers, creating a rich, textured soundscape throughout its ten tracks.
- Each track maintains a distinct thematic focus, often evoking specific imagery or narratives without the use of vocals.
- Several tracks utilize dynamic shifts in tempo and intensity, particularly in transitions that enhance the cinematic quality of the music.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- 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
Known within its scene. 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
- steady flow for focused listening
- vibrant soundscapes for exploration
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- afternoon relaxation and reflection
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy intensity
- prefer longer, sprawling compositions
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album marked a significant shift towards structured compositions and wider recognition.
- Themes
- desert landscapes· modern exploration· cinematic soundscapes
- Career context
- By 1984, Tangerine Dream had established themselves as pioneers of electronic music, transitioning from their earlier ambient works to more structured compositions. Flashpoint was released during a prolific period following their successful soundtrack for the film 'Thief' and marked their continued innovation in melding cinematic soundscapes with pop sensibilities.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Klaus Schulze· Jean-Michel Jarre· Vangelis
Tracklist
- 1 Going West Start here 4:12
- 2 Afternoon in the Desert 3:35
- 3 Plane Ride 3:36
- 4 Mystery Tracks 3:11
- 5 Lost in the Dunes 2:42
- 6 Highway Patrol 4:11
- 7 Lover Phantasy 3:41
- 8 Mad Cap Story 3:58
- 9 Dirty Cross Roads 4:24
- 10 Flashpoint 3:47
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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