Released 40 years ago
Ship of Fools
Tuxedomoon · 1986
28 min · 8 tracks · new wave
A haunting blend of experimental textures and melodic undercurrents that evokes a sense of disquiet and introspection.
Top tracks — play these first
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Atlantis — The opening track sets the tone with its atmospheric layering, combining haunting vocals and lush instrumentation that encapsulates the album’s thematic depth.
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Break the Rules — This track stands out due to its rhythmic complexity and lyrical playfulness, reflecting the band's ability to merge avant-garde sensibilities with accessible melodies.
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The Train — Closing the album, this track features a compelling narrative structure and an evocative soundscape that resonates with themes of journey and transformation.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases a blend of structured compositions and experimental elements, marking Tuxedomoon's evolution in sound.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a layered soundscape in 'Atlantis', combining synths and percussion that create an atmospheric tension.
- Tracks like 'A Piano Solo' and 'Music For Piano + Guitar' feature minimalistic arrangements, emphasizing the interplay between melody and silence.
- Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, blurring the lines between music and performance art.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- gradual builds and payoffs
- late-night contemplative moods
- layered, dense sonic textures
- short, immersive listening sessions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When 'Ship of Fools' was released in 1986, Tuxedomoon was transitioning from their early experimental work into more structured compositions. This album followed their acclaimed debut, 'No Tears', and marked a maturation in their sound, showcasing a deeper exploration of melody intertwined with avant-garde elements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Residents· Swans· Cabaret Voltaire
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Atlantis 5:03
- 2 Reeding, Righting, Rhythmatic 4:53
- 3 Break the Rules 4:09
- 4 A Piano Solo 2:54
- 5 Lowlands Tone Poem 1:55
- 6 Music For Piano + Guitar 1:50
- 7 An Afternoon With N 2:29
- 8 The Train 4:49
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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