What makes Holding Back the River by Wet Wet Wet notable?

The album was a significant commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and earning multiple platinum certifications. Its lead single, 'Sweet Surrender,' became a top ten hit, which helped solidify Wet Wet Wet's reputation in the British pop scene of the late '80s. Released as Wet Wet Wet's debut album in 1989, 'Holding Back the River' introduced the band to a wider audience following their formation in 1982. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from local Scottish gigs to national recognition, setting the stage for their future commercial success.

Who is Holding Back the River for?

Holding Back the River works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, melodic soundscapes for nostalgia and heartfelt lyrics evoke longing.

How many songs are on Holding Back the River?

Holding Back the River has 10 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Holding Back the River

Wet Wet Wet · 1989

49 min · 10 tracks · soft rock

Melodic soft rock harmonies intertwine with heartfelt lyrics, offering lush soundscapes that evoke longing and nostalgia.

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Why this album works

The album was a significant commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and earning multiple platinum certifications. Its lead single, 'Sweet Surrender,' became a top ten hit, which helped solidify Wet Wet Wet's reputation in the British pop scene of the late '80s.

Career context: Released as Wet Wet Wet's debut album in 1989, 'Holding Back the River' introduced the band to a wider audience following their formation in 1982. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from local Scottish gigs to national recognition, setting the stage for their future commercial success.
Stylistic neighbors: Kate Bush· Duran Duran· David Bowie· Kim Wilde· Joe Jackson· Ringo Starr· Radiohead· John Lennon

Tracklist

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

1 Sweet Surrender Standout 6:00
2 Can’t Stand the Night Standout 4:11
3 Blue for You 4:51
4 Broke Away 4:46
5 You’ve Had It 5:13
6 I Wish 5:05
7 Keys to Your Heart 4:25
8 Maggie May 6:04
9 Hold Back the River Standout 4:45
10 How the Hell Did They Get There 3:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata

What to play next

Listen next

Live

1990

Go back to

The Memphis Sessions

1988

Full Wet Wet Wet discography Artists like Wet Wet Wet

soft rock