Description
Roxy Music – Manifesto – 180 Gram Vinyl Record
Manifesto is the sixth studio album by the English rock band Roxy Music, released in March 1979 by EG Records in the UK and by Atco Records in the US. The album marked a significant return for the band after a four-year hiatus and is notable for blending their earlier art rock style with a more polished, dance-oriented sound, reflecting the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s.
Roxy Music, formed in 1970 by Bryan Ferry (vocals, keyboards) and Graham Simpson (bass), quickly gained attention for their distinctive blend of glam rock, art rock, and experimental music. The band’s early lineup included key members like Brian Eno (synthesizers, tapes), Phil Manzanera (guitar), Andy Mackay (saxophone, oboe), and Paul Thompson (drums).
Before Manifesto, Roxy Music had released five studio albums, with notable success and critical acclaim, particularly for albums like ‘For Your Pleasure’ (1973) and ‘Siren’ (1975), which featured the hit single ‘Love Is the Drug.’
Manifesto was released in March 1979, following the band’s temporary split in 1976. The album reflected both the band’s evolution and the changing music scene, incorporating elements of the emerging new wave and dance music trends.
Manifesto blends the band’s signature art rock style with more commercial, dance-friendly elements. The album features a mix of lush arrangements, catchy melodies, and sophisticated production.
Track List:
‘Manifesto’ – The title track opens the album with a dark, moody atmosphere, setting the stage for the diverse sounds to follow.
‘Trash’ – A fast-paced, punk-influenced track that contrasts with the more polished songs on the album.
‘Angel Eyes’ – A song with two versions: the album version has a rock edge, while a later single remix is more dance-oriented.
‘Still Falls the Rain’ – A slower, more contemplative track with rich, layered instrumentation.
‘Stronger Through the Years’ – Features a brooding, atmospheric sound.
‘Ain’t That So’ – A smooth, groovy track with a prominent bass line.
‘My Little Girl’ – A song with a driving rhythm and catchy chorus.
‘Dance Away’ – One of the standout hits from the album, known for its melancholic lyrics and danceable beat. It became one of the band’s most popular songs.
‘Cry, Cry, Cry’ – A mid-tempo track with soulful elements.
‘Spin Me Round’ – The closing track, featuring a dreamy, romantic feel.
Manifesto was a commercial success, reaching number 7 on the UK Albums Chart and number 23 on the US Billboard 200. The singles ‘Dance Away’ and ‘Angel Eyes’ were particularly successful, with ‘Dance Away’ peaking at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart.
The album received mixed to positive reviews from critics. While some praised the band’s ability to adapt and evolve their sound, others felt it lacked the experimental edge of their earlier work. Over time, however, ‘Manifesto’ has been appreciated for its role in bridging Roxy Music’s classic and later phases.
Manifesto is seen as a pivotal album in Roxy Music’s discography, marking their transition from the experimental art rock of the early 1970s to the more accessible, polished sound of their later albums. The success of the album and its singles helped to rejuvenate the band’s career, leading to further hits and acclaimed albums in the early 1980s.
Manifesto by Roxy Music is a significant album that showcases the band’s ability to adapt and innovate within the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s. Blending art rock with danceable rhythms and sophisticated production, the album marked a successful return for Roxy Music and set the stage for their continued influence and success in the years to come.
Heavyweight vinyl.
Made in the E.U.
This is a half speed master reissue, mastered at Abbey Road Studios
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Manifesto
Trash
Angel Eyes
Still Falls The Rain
Stronger Through The Years
Ain’t That So
My Little Girl
Dance Away
Cry, Cry, Cry
Spin Me Round
