What makes The Scattering by Cutting Crew notable?

The album received mixed reviews upon release but is notable for solidifying Cutting Crew's identity beyond their initial hit. It peaked at No. 66 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing a decline from their previous success yet influencing subsequent pop rock bands with its blend of emotional storytelling and polished production. The Scattering is Cutting Crew's second album, following their 1986 debut, Broadcast. At this point in their career, the band was navigating the challenges of maintaining commercial success after their hit '(I Just) Died in Your Arms' while evolving their sound to incorporate more complex musical elements.

Who is The Scattering for?

The Scattering works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, introspective melodies for reflection and anthemic choruses for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on The Scattering?

The Scattering has 12 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

The Scattering

Cutting Crew · 1989

52 min · 12 tracks · pop rock

Layered pop rock melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a sound rich in emotional depth and melodic hooks.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Scattering — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of disillusionment and emotional separation, featuring soaring vocals and a dynamic arrangement that highlights the band's growth.
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(Between a) Rock and a Hard Place — This track stands out with its infectious chorus and relatable lyrics about conflict and indecision, showcasing Cutting Crew's knack for crafting memorable hooks.
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Everything but My Pride — With its poignant lyrics about vulnerability and loss, this song illustrates the album's deeper emotional currents while delivering a catchy melody that lingers.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
introspective melodies for reflection
anthemic choruses for sing-alongs
patient unfolding with wave-like pacing
for contemplative drives

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid lengthy, reflective sessions

Where this album fits

Career context: The Scattering is Cutting Crew's second album, following their 1986 debut, Broadcast. At this point in their career, the band was navigating the challenges of maintaining commercial success after their hit '(I Just) Died in Your Arms' while evolving their sound to incorporate more complex musical elements.
Stylistic neighbors: Mr. Mister· Tears for Fears· Simple Minds

Tracklist

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

1 Year in the Widerness 4:44
2 The Scattering 5:01
3 Big Noise 4:00
4 Everything but My Pride 5:09
5 Handcuffs for Houdini 3:42
6 (Between a) Rock and a Hard Place 4:17
7 Tip of Your Tongue 3:36
8 Reach for the Sky 5:04
9 The Last Thing 3:56
10 Feel the Wedge 5:35
11 Binkies Return 1:30
12 Brag 6:05

What to play next

Listen next

Compus Mentus

1992

Go back to

Broadcast

1986

Full Cutting Crew discography Artists like Cutting Crew

pop rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata