Return to the Centre of the Earth cover

Return to the Centre of the Earth

Rick Wakeman · 1999

76 min · 22 tracks · classical · hard rock · progressive rock

An ambitious orchestral rock journey that intertwines narrative and musical complexity with an otherworldly atmosphere.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • narrative-driven immersive experience
  • for introspective moments
  • wave-like pacing with dramatic shifts
  • orchestral arrangements inspire imagination

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1999, 'Return to the Centre of the Earth' marked Rick Wakeman's return to progressive rock after several years focusing on varied projects. Following his prolific 1970s output, this album showcases a thematic continuation of his earlier work, particularly echoing his 1974 concept album 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth'. The release was part of a broader trend in the late '90s where artists revisited classic progressive sounds.
Stylistic neighbors
Keith Emerson· Genesis· Yes

Tracklist

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

  • 1 A Vision 2:33
  • 2 The Return Overture 2:39
  • 3 Mother Earth 3:48
  • 4 Buried Alive 6:00
  • 5 The Enigma 1:18
  • 6 Is Anybody There? 6:34
  • 7 The Ravine 0:49
  • 8 The Dance of a Thousand Lights 5:40
  • 9 The Shepherd 2:00
  • 10 Mr. Slow 3:47
  • 11 Bridge of Time 1:11
  • 12 Never Is a Long, Long Time 5:19
  • 13 Tales From the Lidenbrook Sea 2:57
  • 14 The Kill 5:23
  • 15 Timeless History 1:10
  • 16 Still Waters Run Deep 5:20
  • 17 Time Within Time 2:39
  • 18 Ride of Your Life 6:01
  • 19 Floating 1:59
  • 20 Floodflames 1:59
  • 21 The Volcano 2:10
  • 22 The End of the Return 5:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata