What makes Following the Sun by Enigma notable?

This album is significant for its commercial success, reaching high positions in various European charts and solidifying Enigma's presence in the new age genre. Additionally, it showcases their innovative approach to blending world music influences with electronic soundscapes, influencing contemporaries in both the new age and ambient music scenes. By the time 'Following the Sun' was released in January 2003, Enigma had established themselves as pioneers of new age music, following up on their successful 'The Screen Behind the Mirror' from 2000. This album marked a continuation of their exploration into atmospheric sounds, featuring a mix of electronic and acoustic elements that defined their style.

How many songs are on Following the Sun?

Following the Sun has 3 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Following the Sun

Enigma · 2003

14 min · 3 tracks · new age music

Ethereal soundscapes blend with meditative rhythms, creating a serene journey through new age textures and haunting melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Following the Sun (album edit) — This track serves as the thematic centerpiece of the album, encapsulating its essence with uplifting melodies and a sense of hope that resonates throughout.
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Following the Sun (radio edit) — The radio edit distills the core elements of the album into a concise format, showcasing Enigma's ability to create catchy yet profound music that appeals to a broader audience.
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Voyageur (Fab 4 mix) — This remix enhances the original track's global influences with rhythmic variations, highlighting Enigma's versatility in merging diverse musical styles.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The single showcases Enigma's signature sound but lacks the depth of their full albums.

What we noticed

The first track, 'Following the Sun (radio edit)', features a consistent tempo with layered synths and vocal samples that create an ethereal atmosphere.
The second track, 'Following the Sun (album edit)', extends the first with additional instrumental sections, enhancing its meditative quality.
The final track, 'Voyageur (Fab 4 mix)', introduces a more rhythmic element with a danceable beat while maintaining the ambient textures characteristic of Enigma.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid entry in their catalog but not a standout for new listeners or major recognition.
Themes: meditative landscapes· global rhythmic fusion· uplifting serenity
Career context: By the time 'Following the Sun' was released in January 2003, Enigma had established themselves as pioneers of new age music, following up on their successful 'The Screen Behind the Mirror' from 2000. This album marked a continuation of their exploration into atmospheric sounds, featuring a mix of electronic and acoustic elements that defined their style.
Stylistic neighbors: Deep Forest· Enya· Loreena McKennitt