Tenement Symphony cover

Tenement Symphony

Marc Almond · 1991

47 min · 11 tracks · new wave · dark cabaret

A theatrical blend of dark cabaret and pop, enveloped in lush melodies and poignant lyrics.

Why this album works

'Tenement Symphony' received critical acclaim and solidified Almond's place in the alternative pop landscape of the early '90s, reaching number 8 on the UK Albums Chart. Its unique sound and lyrical depth influenced subsequent artists within the dark cabaret scene and beyond.
Best for
theatrical storytelling with emotion steady mid-tempo listening experience lush melodies for reflective moments
Context
By the time 'Tenement Symphony' was released in January 1991, Marc Almond had already established himself as a solo artist following his success with Soft Cell. This album marked a significant shift, showcasing Almond's artistic evolution into more ambitious and orchestral compositions after his earlier synth-pop roots.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Meet Me in My Dream Standout 4:24
  • 2 Beautiful Brutal Thing Standout 5:02
  • 3 I've Never Seen Your Face 5:02
  • 4 Vaudeville and Burlesque Standout 6:52
  • 5 Champagne 5:47
  • 6 Prelude 0:23
  • 7 Jacky 4:49
  • 8 What Is Love? 5:04
  • 9 Trois Chansons de Bilitis - Extract 0:54
  • 10 The Days of Pearly Spencer 4:22
  • 11 My Hand Over My Heart 5:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata