Thief cover

Thief

Tangerine Dream · 1981

40 min · 8 tracks · electronic · Krautrock

An atmospheric blend of synth-driven soundscapes that evoke tension and intrigue throughout its cinematic journey.

Why this album works

Best for
atmospheric background focus long immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys
Context
Released in 1981, 'Thief' was Tangerine Dream's first soundtrack album, showcasing their evolving sound in the burgeoning electronic music scene. This project marked a significant shift as they transitioned from purely experimental albums to composing for film, following their previous studio album, 'Force Majeure.' The collaboration with director Michael Mann further solidified their role in popularizing electronic music in cinema.
If you like
electronic, Krautrock

Thief is an album by Tangerine Dream, released in 1981. An atmospheric blend of synth-driven soundscapes that evoke tension and intrigue throughout its cinematic journey. 'Thief' is notable for its pioneering use of synthesizers in film scoring, influencing the aesthetics of subsequent soundtracks. It received critical acclaim, particularly for its innovative approach, and helped establish Tangerine Dream as major contributors to the electronic genre, paving the way for future artists in film music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Thief sound like?

An atmospheric blend of synth-driven soundscapes that evoke tension and intrigue throughout its cinematic journey. Rooted in electronic and Krautrock.

What makes Thief by Tangerine Dream notable?

'Thief' is notable for its pioneering use of synthesizers in film scoring, influencing the aesthetics of subsequent soundtracks. It received critical acclaim, particularly for its innovative approach, and helped establish Tangerine Dream as major contributors to the electronic genre, paving the way for future artists in film music. Released in 1981, 'Thief' was Tangerine Dream's first soundtrack album, showcasing their evolving sound in the burgeoning electronic music scene. This project marked a significant shift as they transitioned from purely experimental albums to composing for film, following their previous studio album, 'Force Majeure.' The collaboration with director Michael Mann further solidified their role in popularizing electronic music in cinema.

Who is Thief for?

Thief works well if you're into atmospheric background focus, long immersive listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Thief?

Thief has 8 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Tracklist

8 tracks·40:37

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

  • 1 Beach Theme Standout 3:46
  • 2 Dr. Destructo 3:22
  • 3 Diamond Diary Standout 10:50
  • 4 Burning Bar Standout 3:13
  • 5 Beach Scene 6:51
  • 6 Scrap Yard 4:42
  • 7 Trap Feeling 3:01
  • 8 Igneous 4:48

Release Date

March 1, 1981

Genre

Krautrock

More albums in Krautrock

Artist Origin

Germany

Runtime

40 min 37 sec