The best Opera albums
of the 1980s.
Where to start with 1980–1989 opera — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1980s — opera
Top picks from 1980–1989, ranked by where we would start.
Plácido Domingo
Perhaps Love
A lush blend of classical and popular melodies, showcasing Domingo's rich tenor against romantic orchestrations.
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Michael Nyman
Michael Nyman
A minimalist exploration of rhythm and melody, blending avant-garde classical influences with operatic textures.
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Philip Glass
Songs from Liquid Days
A seamless blend of minimalist motifs and lyrical storytelling that evokes a dreamlike, reflective state throughout its movements.
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Philip Glass
Solo Piano
A contemplative journey through minimalist piano compositions that evoke introspection and emotional depth.
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George Gershwin
Porgy and Bess
A lush blend of classical orchestration and jazz-infused melodies, portraying the poignant tales of life in the African American South.
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Plácido Domingo
Adoro
A lush blend of romantic ballads and traditional Latin melodies, showcasing Domingo's operatic prowess in a popular music setting.
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Anthony Braxton
Anthony Braxton / Robert Schumann String Quartet
A groundbreaking fusion of avant-garde jazz improvisation and classical string quartet arrangements that challenges traditional genre boundaries.
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Anthony Braxton
Four Compositions (Quartet) 1983
Intricate and avant-garde, this album melds complex jazz harmonies with unconventional structures and unpredictable rhythms.
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Giorgos Dalaras
Latin
A vibrant fusion of traditional Greek melodies and Latin rhythms, celebrating cultural diversity through passionate vocals and eclectic instrumentation.
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Sissel Kyrkjebø
Sissel
A blend of operatic finesse and traditional Norwegian melodies that resonate with emotional depth and lyrical clarity.
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Sissel Kyrkjebø
Glade Jul
A haunting blend of classical elegance and traditional Norwegian folk, echoing with ethereal vocals and rich holiday spirit.
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Astor Piazzolla
Tango: Zero Hour
This album showcases Piazzolla's distinct approach to tango, mixing energetic rhythms with lyrical moments that engage listeners emotionally. Its varied compositions offer a comprehensive introduction to his artistry.
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Astor Piazzolla
The Rough Dancer and the Cyclical Night (Tango Apasionado)
A passionate fusion of traditional tango rhythms with avant-garde orchestration, evoking a vivid narrative of love and loss.
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André Previn
After Hours
A sophisticated blend of jazz standards delivered with lush orchestration and Previn's intimate piano style.
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André Previn
A Different Kind of Blues
A rich tapestry of jazz-infused classical melodies intertwines with introspective lyrical storytelling throughout the album.
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Meredith Monk
Turtle Dreams
A haunting blend of vocal experimentation and minimalist instrumentation that evokes dreamlike landscapes and emotional depth.
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Meredith Monk
Do You Be
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Klaus Nomi
Simple Man
A theatrical blend of operatic vocals and eclectic electronic textures that defy genre boundaries.
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Klaus Nomi
Encore
A theatrical blend of operatic vocals and eclectic pop arrangements creates an otherworldly atmosphere throughout this genre-defying album.
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Peter Schickele
1712 Overture and Other Musical Assaults
A whimsical blend of classical orchestration and absurdist humor, merging highbrow and lowbrow in a playful sonic landscape.
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Greg Lake
Manoeuvres
A blend of melodic rock with introspective lyrics and lush instrumentation, capturing a reflective yet vibrant soundscape.
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Greg Lake
Greg Lake
An introspective blend of art rock and folk elements, infused with emotional depth and lyrical poignancy.
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Peter Schickele
Music You Can't Get Out of Your Head
A whimsical blend of classical orchestration and playful satire that dances between the absurd and the profound.
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George Adams
City Gates
A vibrant fusion of jazz and big band sounds that intertwine complex melodies with heartfelt improvisation.
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