What makes The Tall Ships by It Bites notable?

The Tall Ships received positive reviews upon release, highlighting the band's ability to blend complex musicality with accessible songwriting. It reached number 40 on the UK Albums Chart, affirming their enduring appeal in the progressive rock scene and introducing them to a new generation of listeners. Released in 2008, The Tall Ships is It Bites' fourth studio album, coming after a lengthy hiatus following their previous album, The Big Lad in the Windmill, from 1990. This record marked a significant return for the band, showcasing their evolution while maintaining the signature sound that characterized their earlier work during the late 1980s.

How many songs are on The Tall Ships?

The Tall Ships has 12 tracks, running approximately 74 minutes.

Released 18 years ago this October

The Tall Ships

It Bites · 2008

74 min · 12 tracks · new wave

A rich tapestry of progressive rock and new wave, blending soaring melodies with intricate arrangements and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Oh My God — This opening track captures the essence of the album with its infectious energy and relatable themes of existential questioning, setting a compelling tone for the listening experience.
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The Tall Ships — The title track stands out for its sweeping melodies and lyrical depth, encapsulating the band’s journey through metaphorical imagery of sailing and exploration.
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This Is England — This nearly 14-minute epic serves as a powerful commentary on contemporary British society, showcasing It Bites' ambition and ability to weave narrative into their music.
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Memory of Water — With its atmospheric arrangement and poignant lyrics, this track embodies the emotional core of the album, reflecting on themes of loss and nostalgia.

Tracklist

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

1 Oh My God 5:47
2 Ghosts 4:45
3 Playground 5:32
4 Memory of Water 4:49
5 The Tall Ships 6:17
6 The Wind That Shakes the Barley 8:11
7 Great Disasters 4:59
8 Fahrenheit 5:16
9 For Safekeeping 5:27
10 Lights 4:54
11 This Is England 13:49
12 When I Fall 4:41

What to play next

Listen next

Map of the Past

2012

Go back to

Thank You and Goodnight

1991

Full It Bites discography Artists like It Bites

new wave progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata