Gone to Earth
David Sylvian · 1986
67 min · 13 tracks · jazz · new wave · ambient
A haunting blend of ambient textures and introspective lyrics that create a meditative sonic landscape.
Why this album works
- Best for
- meditative sonic landscape exploration dynamic journey with emotional peaks introspective moments for reflection
- Context
- Released in January 1986, 'Gone to Earth' was David Sylvian's second solo album following his debut, 'Brilliant Trees' from 1984. At this point in his career, Sylvian was establishing himself as a distinctive voice in the art pop and ambient music scenes, moving away from the new wave sound of his earlier work with Japan. This album reflects his deepening exploration of experimental soundscapes and lyrical depth.
- If you like
- jazz, new wave, ambient
Gone to Earth is an album by David Sylvian, released in 1986. A haunting blend of ambient textures and introspective lyrics that create a meditative sonic landscape. 'Gone to Earth' received critical acclaim upon release, with many praising its innovative sound and introspective lyrics. The album reached number 17 on the UK Albums Chart and solidified Sylvian's reputation as a leading figure in avant-garde music during the mid-1980s, influencing subsequent artists in the ambient and art rock genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Gone to Earth sound like?
A haunting blend of ambient textures and introspective lyrics that create a meditative sonic landscape. Rooted in jazz and new wave.
What makes Gone to Earth by David Sylvian notable?
'Gone to Earth' received critical acclaim upon release, with many praising its innovative sound and introspective lyrics. The album reached number 17 on the UK Albums Chart and solidified Sylvian's reputation as a leading figure in avant-garde music during the mid-1980s, influencing subsequent artists in the ambient and art rock genres. Released in January 1986, 'Gone to Earth' was David Sylvian's second solo album following his debut, 'Brilliant Trees' from 1984. At this point in his career, Sylvian was establishing himself as a distinctive voice in the art pop and ambient music scenes, moving away from the new wave sound of his earlier work with Japan. This album reflects his deepening exploration of experimental soundscapes and lyrical depth.
Who is Gone to Earth for?
Gone to Earth works well if you're into meditative sonic landscape exploration, dynamic journey with emotional peaks and introspective moments for reflection.
How many songs are on Gone to Earth?
Gone to Earth has 13 tracks, running approximately 67 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Taking the Veil Standout 4:39
- 2 Laughter & Forgetting 2:40
- 3 Before the Bullfight Standout 9:45
- 4 Gone to Earth 3:02
- 5 Wave 9:11
- 6 River Man Standout 4:55
- 7 Silver Moon 6:07
- 8 The Healing Place 5:35
- 9 Answered Prayers 3:11
- 10 Where the Railroad Meets the Sea 2:53
- 11 The Wooden Cross 5:01
- 12 Home 4:31
- 13 Upon This Earth 6:22
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