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MCMXC a.D. cover

MCMXC a.D.

Enigma

Album 1990
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About this album

Sound: "A mesmerizing blend of ethereal vocals and haunting instrumentals that evoke introspective journeys through spirituality and sensuality."

Where they were

Released on December 10, 1990, 'MCMXC a.D.' was Enigma's debut album, establishing the project as a significant player in the new age music scene. Michael Cretu, the mastermind behind Enigma, crafted this record after previously working with various artists, marking a shift towards a more experimental sound incorporating elements of world music and electronic production.

Why it matters

'MCMXC a.D.' achieved commercial success, reaching multi-platinum status in numerous countries and hitting No. 1 in several charts worldwide. The single 'Sadeness (Part I)' became particularly notable for its incorporation of Gregorian chants, which contributed to the album's innovative sound and helped define the ambient and new age genres of the early 1990s.

Essential tracks

  • "Sadeness (Part I)" — This track is pivotal for its groundbreaking fusion of electronic beats with Gregorian chant, setting the tone for the entire album.
  • "Mea Culpa" — 'Mea Culpa' showcases Enigma's signature blend of spirituality and sensuality, enhancing the album's thematic depth while remaining musically captivating.
  • "Principles of Lust: Sadeness (reprise)" — The reprise acts as a reflective culmination of the themes introduced earlier, reinforcing the haunting melodic structures that characterize the album.
  • "Back to the Rivers of Belief: Hallelujah" — The integration of choral elements in this track exemplifies Enigma's innovative approach to merging different musical traditions, creating an immersive listening experience.

Release Date

December 10, 1990

Artist Origin

Germany

Tracklist

  1. 1 The Voice of Enigma 2:08
  2. 2 Principles of Lust: Sadeness 4:15
  3. 3 Principles of Lust: Find Love 4:49
  4. 4 Principles of Lust: Sadeness (reprise) 2:48
  5. 5 Callas Went Away 4:29
  6. 6 Mea Culpa 4:53
  7. 7 The Voice & The Snake 1:45
  8. 8 Knocking on Forbidden Doors 4:27
  9. 9 Back to the Rivers of Belief: Way to Eternity 2:19
  10. 10 Back to the Rivers of Belief: Hallelujah 4:15
  11. 11 Back to the Rivers of Belief: The Rivers of Belief 3:31
  12. 12 Sadeness (Meditation) 2:43
  13. 13 Mea Culpa (Fading Shades) 6:04
  14. 14 Principles of Lust (Everlasting Lust) 4:50
  15. 15 The Rivers of Belief (The Returning Silence) 7:04

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