Periscope Life
Kayak · 1980
51 min · 13 tracks · progressive rock
A melodic journey through progressive rock, blending intricate arrangements with lyrical storytelling and a touch of theatricality.
Top tracks — play these first
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Periscope Life — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its introspective lyrics and dynamic shifts, serving as a microcosm of Kayak's thematic depth and musical complexity.
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Lost Blue of Chartres — This track stands out with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, effectively blending emotional weight with sophisticated instrumental arrangements.
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Beggars Can't Be Choosers — With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, this song contrasts the more somber moments on the album, showcasing Kayak's ability to balance lightness with depth.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- theatrical arrangements for storytelling
- melodic explorations with varied pacing
- intricate melodies that invite focus
- reflective moments of lyrical depth
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 1980, Periscope Life was Kayak's sixth studio album and marked their return after a brief hiatus following the commercial struggles of their previous album, Phantom of the Night. This record is significant as it showcases their continued evolution in sound while navigating the shifting musical landscape of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Focus· Gentle Giant· Camel
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Astral Aliens 3:40
- 2 What's in a Name 4:10
- 3 Stop That Song 3:16
- 4 If You Really Need Me Now 4:16
- 5 Periscope Life 3:26
- 6 Beggars Can't Be Choosers 4:42
- 7 The Sight 4:00
- 8 Lost Blue of Chartres 3:40
- 9 Anne 4:20
- 10 One Way or Another 3:21
- 11 Sad to Say Farewell 4:29
- 12 Total Loss 4:11
- 13 What's Done Is Done 3:39
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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