Pieces of Eight cover

Pieces of Eight

Styx · 1978

42 min · 10 tracks · hard rock · progressive rock · adult-oriented rock

A vibrant fusion of progressive rock and hard rock, rich with theatrical storytelling and melodic hooks.

Why this album works

'Pieces of Eight' reached No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart and featured the hit single 'Renegade', which became a staple in rock radio. The album is notable for its ambitious blend of genres and helped to further define Styx's sound during the late 1970s.
Best for
theatrical storytelling with resolution steady pacing for focused listening melodic hooks for sing-alongs
Context
Released in January 1978, 'Pieces of Eight' marked Styx's sixth studio album, following their breakthrough success with 'The Grand Illusion'. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their status as a leading force in rock music, combining intricate instrumentation with mainstream appeal.
Stylistic neighbors
Junichi Inagaki· Omega Tribe· Kansas

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Great White Hope 4:23
  • 2 I’m O.K. 5:44
  • 3 Sing for the Day Standout 5:01
  • 4 The Message 1:08
  • 5 Lords of the Ring 4:35
  • 6 Blue Collar Man (Long Nights) Standout 4:07
  • 7 Queen of Spades 5:41
  • 8 Renegade Standout 4:17
  • 9 Pieces of Eight 4:44
  • 10 Aku‐Aku 2:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata