Phantasmagoria cover

Phantasmagoria

The Damned · 1985

51 min · 11 tracks · new wave · punk · gothic rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of gothic rock and new wave that explores themes of dreams and nightmares.

Why this album works

'Phantasmagoria' is notable for its commercial success, reaching No. 23 on the UK Albums Chart. It also showcased a significant evolution in the band's style, influencing the emerging gothic rock scene while receiving mixed but insightful reviews that highlighted its ambitious production.
Best for
dreamy, introspective listening sessions layered, dense sonic textures gradual builds and payoffs
Context
By the time 'Phantasmagoria' was released in July 1985, The Damned were transitioning from their punk roots to a more experimental sound. This fifth studio album followed their previous effort, 'The Black Album,' which had marked a significant shift in their musical direction, embracing darker and more atmospheric elements.
Stylistic neighbors
The Cure· Killing Joke· Siouxsie Sioux

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Street of Dreams Standout 5:38
  • 2 Shadow of Love Standout 3:51
  • 3 There'll Come a Day 4:15
  • 4 Sanctum Sanctorum 6:27
  • 5 Is It a Dream 3:27
  • 6 Grimly Fiendish Standout 3:50
  • 7 Edward the Bear 3:37
  • 8 The Eighth Day 3:46
  • 9 Trojans 4:53
  • 10 Grimly Fiendish (The Bad Trip mix) 5:11
  • 11 The Shadow of Love (Ten Inches of Hell mix) 6:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata