About this album
Sound:
"A sprawling sonic landscape blending heavy guitars with ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics."
Where they were
Released on August 13, 1996, 'Fantastic Planet' was Failure's second studio album, following their debut 'Comfort' from 1994. At this point, the band was navigating a transition into a more defined sound that would ultimately influence the post-grunge and space rock movements of the late '90s.
Why it matters
'Fantastic Planet' received critical acclaim and has been cited as a significant influence on subsequent alternative rock acts. The album's unique blend of genres and its thematic depth garnered it a dedicated following, even though it did not achieve immediate commercial success upon release.
Essential tracks
- "Saturday Saviour" — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its dynamic shifts between heavy riffs and melodic interludes, encapsulating Failure's signature sound.
- "The Nurse Who Loved Me" — This track stands out for its hauntingly beautiful melodies and lyrical depth, showcasing the band's ability to merge emotional weight with intricate instrumentation.
- "Smoking Umbrellas" — With its atmospheric layers and reflective lyrics, this track exemplifies the band's innovative approach to songwriting within the alternative genre.
- "Pitiful" — This song features a compelling juxtaposition of heaviness and vulnerability, highlighting the band's knack for exploring complex emotions in their music.
Release Date
August 13, 1996
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Saturday Saviour 4:27
- 2 Sergeant Politeness 4:05
- 3 Segue 1 1:54
- 4 Smoking Umbrellas 3:58
- 5 Pillowhead 2:09
- 6 Blank 5:38
- 7 Segue 2 1:17
- 8 Dirty Blue Balloons 4:23
- 9 Solaris 3:43
- 10 Pitiful 4:45
- 11 Leo 3:05
- 12 Segue 3 2:11
- 13 The Nurse Who Loved Me 4:25
- 14 Another Space Song 5:10
- 15 Stuck on You 4:28
- 16 Heliotropic 6:14
- 17 Daylight 6:00
