The Bride Stripped Bare cover

The Bride Stripped Bare

Bryan Ferry · 1978

41 min · 10 tracks · new wave

A sultry blend of sophisticated pop and rock infused with emotional depth and orchestral textures.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Sign of the Times — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its lush instrumentation and contemplative lyrics about change and uncertainty.
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    Take Me to the River — Ferry's rendition transforms this classic into a haunting exploration of desire, highlighting his ability to reinterpret well-known songs with fresh sensibility.
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    Carrickfergus — This track showcases Ferry's emotive vocal delivery and lyrical storytelling, blending nostalgia with a sense of longing that resonates deeply throughout the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing for relaxed listening
  • emotional depth with orchestral flair
  • for evening unwinding
  • smooth transitions between tracks

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced, energetic music
  • want standalone hits over cohesion

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on September 1, 1978, The Bride Stripped Bare is Bryan Ferry's fourth solo album, following his successful run with Roxy Music. At this point in his career, Ferry was solidifying his identity as a solo artist while navigating the post-Roxy landscape, experimenting with themes of love and loss.
Stylistic neighbors
Roxy Music· David Bowie· Kate Bush

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • When She Walks in the Room

    A pivotal moment occurs when the song shifts from reflective verses to an urgent chorus expressing longing and admiration.

    The contrast between the quieter verses and explosive chorus emphasizes the intensity of emotion and desire within the narrative.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Sign of the Times 2:28
  • 2 Can’t Let Go 5:14
  • 3 Hold On (I’m Coming) 3:37
  • 4 The Same Old Blues 3:21
  • 5 When She Walks in the Room 6:28
  • 6 Take Me to the River 4:29
  • 7 What Goes On 4:11
  • 8 Carrickfergus 3:46
  • 9 That’s How Strong My Love Is 3:17
  • 10 This Island Earth 5:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata