Open
Steve Hillage · 1979
65 min · 12 tracks · progressive rock
A kaleidoscopic journey through progressive rock, blending ethereal soundscapes with intricate guitar work and cosmic themes.
Top tracks — play these first
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Talking To The Sun — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its expansive melodies and philosophical lyrics that explore themes of enlightenment and connection to nature.
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Earthrise — Drawing inspiration from cosmic imagery, this track features lush instrumentation and conveys a sense of awe about our planet, encapsulating Hillage's signature blend of psychedelia and progressive rock.
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New Age Synthesis (Unzipping The Zype) — With its complex structure and dynamic shifts, this track exemplifies Hillage's experimental side, merging technical prowess with an exploration of spiritual themes.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's intricate compositions and distinctive sound make it a notable entry in progressive rock.
What we noticed
- The album features extended instrumental sections, with several tracks exceeding six minutes, allowing for elaborate guitar solos and atmospheric builds.
- The use of synthesizers alongside electric guitar creates layered soundscapes, particularly in the opening track, which sets a cosmic tone for the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- cosmic themes for introspective journeys
- kaleidoscopic soundscapes for exploration
- patient unfolding of layered melodies
- immersive experience for deep focus
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer short, standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 1979, 'Open' is Steve Hillage's fourth studio album and marks a significant moment following his tenure with the influential band Gong. By this time, Hillage was establishing himself as a solo artist, having previously explored varied sonic territories in albums like 'Fish Rising' and 'L.' This album reflects his continued evolution in sound and artistry during the late 1970s.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Talking To The Sun 5:59
- 2 1988 Aktivatior 2:29
- 3 New Age Synthesis (Unzipping The Zype) 8:52
- 4 Healing Feeling 6:05
- 5 Earthrise 8:34
- 6 Open 5:17
- 7 Definite Activity 4:43
- 8 Getting Better 2:59
- 9 Day After Day 6:19
- 10 Getting In Tune 3:15
- 11 Don't Dither Do It 5:04
- 12 The Fire Inside 6:14
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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