About this album
Where they were
When 'This Is Music: The Singles 92–98' was released, The Verve had experienced significant commercial success with their third studio album, 'Urban Hymns,' in 1997. This compilation serves as a retrospective of their formative years, showcasing their evolution from a psychedelic rock band to an influential force in Britpop.
Why it matters
The album encapsulates The Verve's most impactful singles, including the chart-topping 'Bitter Sweet Symphony,' which is often credited with bringing orchestral arrangements into mainstream rock. Its release also coincided with a resurgence of interest in the band as they faced legal disputes over song rights, further cementing their legacy within the genre.
Essential tracks
- "Bitter Sweet Symphony" — This track is emblematic of The Verve's sound, combining lush orchestration with themes of existential struggle, making it a definitive anthem of the 90s.
- "Lucky Man" — With its catchy chorus and reflective lyrics, 'Lucky Man' captures the band's unique ability to merge introspection with accessibility.
- "The Drugs Don’t Work" — 'The Drugs Don’t Work' showcases Richard Ashcroft's emotive songwriting and vocal delivery, resonating deeply with listeners during a time of personal and societal uncertainty.
Release Date
January 1, 2004
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 This Is Music 3:38
- 2 Slide Away 4:06
- 3 Lucky Man 4:49
- 4 History 5:28
- 5 She’s a Superstar 5:04
- 6 On Your Own 3:36
- 7 Blue 3:39
- 8 Sonnet 4:24
- 9 All in the Mind 4:17
- 10 The Drugs Don’t Work 5:05
- 11 Gravity Grave 8:21
- 12 Bitter Sweet Symphony 5:59
- 13 This Could Be My Moment 3:59
- 14 Monte Carlo 4:58
