Is This Way Up a good place to start with Chris de Burgh?

Yes, This Way Up is recommended as a starting point for new Chris de Burgh listeners. A melodic blend of soft rock and pop that intertwines heartfelt storytelling with lush instrumentation. Released in 1994, This Way Up was Chris de Burgh's seventh studio album, following the successful release of his 1986 hit record Into the Light. By this time, de Burgh had established himself as a prominent figure in the adult contemporary genre, known for his romantic ballads and narrative-driven songs. This album continued to build on his legacy, showcasing his ability to craft compelling stories through music.

Who is This Way Up for?

This Way Up works well if you're into steady pacing with emotional arcs, heartfelt storytelling through melodies and reflective moments of personal connection.

How many songs are on This Way Up?

This Way Up has 11 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

This Way Up

Chris de Burgh · 1994

45 min · 11 tracks · rock music

A melodic blend of soft rock and pop that intertwines heartfelt storytelling with lush instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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This Silent World Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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This Is Love — This track encapsulates de Burgh's signature style with its soaring melody and romantic lyrics, making it an anthem of love that resonates with listeners.
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The Snows of New York — A poignant reflection on nostalgia and loss, this song showcases de Burgh's lyrical depth and emotional delivery, standing out for its evocative imagery.
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Oh My Brave Hearts — This track blends rich instrumentation with a stirring narrative, highlighting de Burgh's storytelling prowess while also paying homage to resilience and courage.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends soft rock and pop with storytelling but lacks standout compositions throughout.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm.
Several songs utilize layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
The album closes with a ballad that features orchestral strings, creating a dramatic contrast to the preceding tracks.

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

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing with emotional arcs
heartfelt storytelling through melodies
reflective moments of personal connection
uplifting themes of love and

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, energetic songs
avoid lengthy narrative progressions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This Way Up marked significant commercial success, reaching number one in the UK.
Themes: New York nostalgia· romantic storytelling· bravery in adversity
Moods: Introspective· Melancholy
Career context: Released in 1994, This Way Up was Chris de Burgh's seventh studio album, following the successful release of his 1986 hit record Into the Light. By this time, de Burgh had established himself as a prominent figure in the adult contemporary genre, known for his romantic ballads and narrative-driven songs. This album continued to build on his legacy, showcasing his ability to craft compelling stories through music.
Stylistic neighbors: Phil Collins· James Blunt· Elton John