What makes The World of Arthur Russell by Arthur Russell notable?

This album is significant for reviving interest in Arthur Russell's music, reaching number five on the Billboard Dance/Electronic Albums chart. It helped cement Russell's influence on contemporary artists within the disco and electronic genres, contributing to a broader recognition of his innovative approach to music-making. Released in 2004, The World of Arthur Russell was a posthumous compilation that showcased the eclectic range of Russell's work during his lifetime. By this time, he had gained a cult following for his unique blend of pop, experimental music, and disco, particularly after his death in 1992 when interest in his artistry surged significantly.

How many songs are on The World of Arthur Russell?

The World of Arthur Russell has 11 tracks, running approximately 73 minutes.

The World of Arthur Russell

Arthur Russell · 2004

73 min · 11 tracks · experimental music

A vibrant collage of disco grooves and avant-garde experimentation that celebrates the innovative spirit of Arthur Russell.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Go Bang (François Kevorkian mix) — This track exemplifies Russell's ability to meld infectious disco rhythms with avant-garde sensibilities, showcasing his unique vocal delivery and production style.
→
Is It All Over My Face (Larry Levan mix) — As one of Russell's most recognizable songs, it encapsulates the fusion of dance music with introspective lyrics, making it a staple for both dance floors and critical acclaim.
→
In the Light of the Miracle — This expansive track highlights Russell's experimental side with its ethereal arrangements and intricate layering, illustrating his artistic depth beyond conventional disco.
→
Let's Go Swimming (Walter Gibbons mix) — With its playful energy and buoyant grooves, this track serves as an example of Russell's joyful approach to music while incorporating elements of improvisation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

This compilation showcases Arthur Russell's eclectic style but lacks the cohesive flow of a traditional album.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

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

1 Go Bang (François Kevorkian mix) 7:35
2 Wax the Van 5:27
3 Is It All Over My Face (Larry Levan mix) 6:57
4 Keeping Up 6:20
5 In the Light of the Miracle 13:21
6 A Little Lost 3:18
7 Pop Your Funk 6:38
8 Let's Go Swimming (Walter Gibbons mix) 5:14
9 In the Cornbelt (Larry Levan mix) 5:57
10 Treehouse 2:17
11 Schoolbell/Treehouse (Walter Gibbons mix) 10:05

What to play next

Listen next

Calling Out of Context

2004

Go back to

Another Thought

1993

Full Arthur Russell discography Artists like Arthur Russell

avant-garde music disco

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata