Time Vaults cover

Time Vaults

Van der Graaf Generator · 1982

45 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock

Ethereal soundscapes merge with intricate arrangements, creating a hauntingly immersive experience that defines the essence of progressive rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Liquidator Start here — This opening track sets the thematic tone of the album with its complex structure and brooding atmosphere, showcasing the band's signature sound.
  • →
    Rift Valley — Rift Valley stands out for its intricate instrumentation and vivid storytelling, representing the band's ability to blend personal narrative with expansive musical landscapes.
  • →
    Time Vaults — The title track encapsulates the album's reflective nature, weaving together existential themes with a haunting melody that lingers long after listening.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • haunting reflections on memory
  • wave-like pacing with tension
  • engaging narrative through each track

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Marks a return after a hiatus with a distinct sound exploration.
Career context
Released in 1982, Time Vaults marked Van der Graaf Generator's return after a lengthy hiatus since their previous album, Godbluff, in 1975. This album came during a phase of artistic exploration as the band redefined their sound while grappling with changes in the music landscape and their own lineup dynamics.
Stylistic neighbors
King Crimson· Genesis· Yes
New to Van der Graaf Generator? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 The Liquidator Start here 5:24
  • 2 Rift Valley 4:39
  • 3 Tarzan 2:09
  • 4 Coil Night 4:12
  • 5 Time Vaults 3:33
  • 6 Drift (I Hope It Won't) 2:41
  • 7 Roncevaux 6:55
  • 8 It All Went Red 4:07
  • 9 Faint and Forsaken 2:46
  • 10 Black Room 8:51

What to play next

First Generation
Listen next

First Generation

1986

Continues the ethereal soundscapes with fresh arrangements and themes.
Repeat Performance
Go back to

Repeat Performance

1980

Leads into 'Time Vaults' with a similar immersive experience.
Full Van der Graaf Generator discography Where to start with Van der Graaf Generator Artists like Van der Graaf Generator
progressive rock

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Genesis

Explores complex storytelling and immersive soundscapes, characteristic of the progressive rock era.

Rubycon

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Tangerine Dream

Offers ethereal soundscapes and an atmospheric experience, resonating with Time Vaults' immersive qualities.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata