What makes Peace in Our Time by Big Country notable?

The album is notable for addressing political themes and social issues, particularly in its title track, which critiques war and conflict. While it did not achieve the same level of commercial success as their earlier works, it received positive reviews and showcased Big Country's commitment to meaningful lyricism during a time when alternative rock was gaining traction. Upon its release in 1988, Peace in Our Time marked Big Country's fifth studio album, following the commercial success of their previous albums. At this stage, the band was navigating a transition period as they sought to evolve their sound while still appealing to their established fanbase.

Who is Peace in Our Time for?

Peace in Our Time works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, soaring melodies for introspection and an emotional journey through nostalgia.

How many songs are on Peace in Our Time?

Peace in Our Time has 11 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Peace in Our Time

Big Country · 1988

50 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A soaring blend of anthemic rock and introspective lyrics, underpinned by Big Country's signature guitar work and rich melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Peace in Our Time — This title track encapsulates the album's overarching theme of yearning for peace amidst turmoil, combining poignant lyrics with an uplifting melody.
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Thousand Yard Stare — This song offers a stark commentary on the psychological effects of war, using vivid imagery to explore deep emotional scars.
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King of Emotion — Opening the album with an energetic sound, this track reflects both personal and universal struggles with emotion and identity, making it a standout opener.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
soaring melodies for introspection
an emotional journey through nostalgia
for late-night listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
avoid lengthy cohesive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: Upon its release in 1988, Peace in Our Time marked Big Country's fifth studio album, following the commercial success of their previous albums. At this stage, the band was navigating a transition period as they sought to evolve their sound while still appealing to their established fanbase.
Stylistic neighbors: The Waterboys· Simple Minds· U2

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Thousand Yard Stare

The verse shifts perspective to convey a soldier's haunting memories, illustrating the lasting impact of trauma from combat.

By altering the narrative voice mid-song, the writing creates a visceral connection to the experiences being recounted, deepening the emotional weight.

Tracklist

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

1 King of Emotion 4:51
2 Broken Heart (Thirteen Valleys) 5:12
3 Thousand Yard Stare 3:53
4 From Here to Eternity 4:58
5 Everything I Need 4:45
6 Peace in Our Time 4:37
7 Time for Leaving 5:03
8 River of Hope 4:32
9 In This Place 4:23
10 I Could Be Happy Here 4:32
11 The Travellers 3:13

What to play next

Listen next

Through a Big Country: Greatest Hits

1990

Go back to

The Seer

1986

Full Big Country discography Artists like Big Country

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata