Flickering Flame: The Solo Years Volume 1 cover

Flickering Flame: The Solo Years Volume 1

Roger Waters · 2002

70 min · 12 tracks · opera

An introspective blend of rock and orchestral elements that showcases Waters' poignant storytelling and emotional depth.

Top tracks — play these first

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    The Tide Is Turning — This track encapsulates Waters' themes of hope and resilience, using stirring imagery to reflect on societal issues while showcasing his lyrical prowess.
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    Perfect Sense, Parts I & II — A powerful commentary on modern life that juxtaposes personal loss with broader existential questions, this song highlights Waters' ability to weave intricate narratives.
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    Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door — Waters' interpretation of this classic brings new emotional weight, emphasizing vulnerability and longing through his distinct vocal delivery and arrangement choices.
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    Each Small Candle — This track stands out for its reflective tone and thematic depth, offering a meditation on hope amidst despair, underscored by lush instrumentation.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • reflective journey through melodies
  • dynamic peaks and valleys
  • haunting emotional resonance
  • thoughtful late-night listening
  • introspective moments of clarity

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat party tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A compilation of key solo tracks, but not a primary entry or defining work.
Career context
By the time 'Flickering Flame: The Solo Years Volume 1' was released in 2002, Roger Waters had a long-established solo career that began post-Pink Floyd. This compilation highlights key tracks from his solo albums, following his artistic exploration after the band's breakup in the early 1980s. It serves as both a retrospective and a bridge to his ongoing evolution as a solo artist.
Stylistic neighbors
David Gilmour· Peter Gabriel· King Crimson

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door 4:06
  • 2 Too Much Rope 5:12
  • 3 The Tide Is Turning 5:24
  • 4 Perfect Sense, Parts I & II 7:22
  • 5 Three Wishes 6:49
  • 6 5:06 AM (Every Stranger’s Eyes) 4:47
  • 7 Who Needs Information 5:55
  • 8 Each Small Candle 8:34
  • 9 Flickering Flame 6:44
  • 10 Towers of Faith 6:52
  • 11 Radio Waves 4:31
  • 12 Lost Boys Calling (original demo) 4:04

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata