Is This the Life We Really Want?
Roger Waters · 2017
54 min · 12 tracks · opera · progressive rock · psychedelic rock
A poignant exploration of despair and hope, merging orchestral grandeur with Waters' unmistakable lyrical introspection.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady pacing with reflective moments poignant themes of despair and consistent flow with gradual peaks
- Context
- Released on June 2, 2017, 'Is This the Life We Really Want?' marks Roger Waters' first solo album in 25 years since 'Amused to Death' (1992). At this point in his career, Waters was reflecting on contemporary political issues and personal themes, solidifying his status as a provocative voice in rock music.
- If you like
- opera, progressive rock, psychedelic rock
- If this clicks, go next to
- Amused to Death — Continues themes of societal critique with rich soundscapes and introspective lyrics.
Is This the Life We Really Want? is an album by Roger Waters, released in 2017. A poignant exploration of despair and hope, merging orchestral grandeur with Waters' unmistakable lyrical introspection. The album received widespread critical acclaim, debuting at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and earning a nomination for Best Rock Album at the Grammy Awards. Its bold commentary on societal issues resonated deeply with listeners, positioning it as a significant cultural response during a politically turbulent time. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Is This the Life We Really Want? sound like?
A poignant exploration of despair and hope, merging orchestral grandeur with Waters' unmistakable lyrical introspection. Rooted in opera and progressive rock.
What makes Is This the Life We Really Want? by Roger Waters notable?
The album received widespread critical acclaim, debuting at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and earning a nomination for Best Rock Album at the Grammy Awards. Its bold commentary on societal issues resonated deeply with listeners, positioning it as a significant cultural response during a politically turbulent time. Released on June 2, 2017, 'Is This the Life We Really Want?' marks Roger Waters' first solo album in 25 years since 'Amused to Death' (1992). At this point in his career, Waters was reflecting on contemporary political issues and personal themes, solidifying his status as a provocative voice in rock music.
Who is Is This the Life We Really Want? for?
Is This the Life We Really Want? works well if you're into steady pacing with reflective moments, poignant themes of despair and and consistent flow with gradual peaks.
How many songs are on Is This the Life We Really Want??
Is This the Life We Really Want? has 12 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 When We Were Young 1:38
- 2 Déjà Vu Standout 4:27
- 3 The Last Refugee 4:12
- 4 Picture That 6:47
- 5 Broken Bones 4:57
- 6 Is This the Life We Really Want? Standout 5:55
- 7 Bird in a Gale 5:31
- 8 The Most Beautiful Girl 6:09
- 9 Smell the Roses Standout 5:15
- 10 Wait for Her 4:56
- 11 Oceans Apart 1:07
- 12 Part of Me Died 3:12
Release Date
June 2, 2017
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
54 min 6 sec
Learn More
![Amused to Death [Reissue]](/images/artwork.png)
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