The Circus
Erasure · 1987
54 min · 13 tracks · new wave · synth-pop
A vibrant blend of synth-driven pop and emotional lyrics that define the new wave era.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic emotional journeys short, engaging listening sessions late-night contemplative moods
- Context
- Released in January 1987, 'The Circus' was Erasure's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, the duo was beginning to solidify their identity in the synth-pop landscape, transitioning from relative obscurity to mainstream recognition.
- If you like
- new wave, synth-pop
The Circus is an album by Erasure, released in 1987. A vibrant blend of synth-driven pop and emotional lyrics that define the new wave era. 'The Circus' marked a significant commercial success for Erasure, reaching No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart and featuring hits like 'Sometimes' and 'It Doesn't Have to Be.' The album showcased the duo's ability to combine catchy melodies with introspective themes, influencing the synth-pop sound of the late '80s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Circus sound like?
A vibrant blend of synth-driven pop and emotional lyrics that define the new wave era. Rooted in new wave and synth-pop.
What makes The Circus by Erasure notable?
'The Circus' marked a significant commercial success for Erasure, reaching No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart and featuring hits like 'Sometimes' and 'It Doesn't Have to Be.' The album showcased the duo's ability to combine catchy melodies with introspective themes, influencing the synth-pop sound of the late '80s. Released in January 1987, 'The Circus' was Erasure's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, the duo was beginning to solidify their identity in the synth-pop landscape, transitioning from relative obscurity to mainstream recognition.
Who is The Circus for?
The Circus works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, short, engaging listening sessions and late-night contemplative moods.
How many songs are on The Circus?
The Circus has 13 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 It Doesn't Have to Be Standout 3:55
- 2 Hideaway 3:48
- 3 Don't Dance 3:39
- 4 If I Could 3:52
- 5 Sexuality Standout 3:53
- 6 Victim of Love 3:42
- 7 Leave Me to Bleed 3:22
- 8 Sometimes Standout 3:39
- 9 The Circus 5:30
- 10 Spiralling 3:09
- 11 In the Hall of the Mountain King 2:58
- 12 Sometimes (extended mix) 5:24
- 13 It Doesn't Have to Be (The Boop Oopa Doo mix) 7:18
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