Released 40 years ago
This Is the Time
Billy Joel · 1986
10 min · 2 tracks · pop rock
A reflective blend of soft rock and contemporary classical elements, showcasing Billy Joel's storytelling prowess and melodic craftsmanship.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
This Is the Time — This track encapsulates the album's themes of nostalgia and reflection, with soaring melodies that enhance its poignant lyrics about seizing the moment.
-
→
Code of Silence — With its darker undertones, this song explores themes of communication breakdown and emotional distance, showcasing Joel’s ability to convey complex feelings through music.
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Deep Cut — A solid entry that showcases maturity but isn't a primary highlight in his catalog.
- Themes
- nostalgic reflection· emotional distance· seizing the moment
- Career context
- Released in 1986, This Is the Time marked Billy Joel's eighth studio album. At this point, he was enjoying significant commercial success following his previous album, The Bridge, which had produced several hit singles. This record continued to build on his reputation as a masterful songwriter and musician, further solidifying his legacy in pop music.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Elton John· Carole King· James Taylor
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 This Is the Time 4:56
- 2 Code of Silence 5:15
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
The One
Elton John
Shares reflective themes of nostalgia and emotional distance, with lush melodies and pop sensibilities.
New Moon Shine
James Taylor
Combines soft rock storytelling with introspective lyrics and a warm, inviting sound palette.
Graceland
Paul Simon
Explores personal narratives with intricate arrangements, blending folk and world influences akin to Joel's style.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.