About this album
Where they were
Released on November 1, 1980, 'The Turn of a Friendly Card' was the fifth studio album by The Alan Parsons Project, following their successful 'I Robot.' At this point in their career, they had established themselves as a prominent force in the progressive rock scene and were exploring themes of chance and risk through conceptual storytelling.
Why it matters
'The Turn of a Friendly Card' reached No. 5 on the UK Albums Chart and featured the hit single 'Games People Play,' which gained significant radio airplay. Its exploration of gambling metaphors resonated culturally during the rise of casino-themed entertainment in the early 1980s, marking a distinct moment in the band's evolution.
Essential tracks
- "Games People Play" — This track encapsulates the album's themes of chance and manipulation, becoming one of the band's most recognizable hits with its catchy chorus and reflective lyrics.
- "Time" — 'Time' stands out for its poignant melody and philosophical lyrics about mortality, showcasing the band's ability to blend emotional depth with musical sophistication.
- "The Turn of a Friendly Card: I. The Turn of a Friendly Card, Part One" — Opening the multi-part suite, this track sets the tone for the album’s narrative structure while merging complex arrangements with accessible melodies.
Release Date
November 1, 1980
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 May Be a Price to Pay 4:58
- 2 Games People Play 4:21
- 3 Time 5:04
- 4 I Don’t Wanna Go Home 5:03
- 5 The Gold Bug 4:34
- 6 The Turn of a Friendly Card: Ⅰ. The Turn of a Friendly Card, Part One 2:36
- 7 The Turn of a Friendly Card: Ⅱ. Snake Eyes 3:23
- 8 The Turn of a Friendly Card: Ⅲ. The Ace of Swords 2:59
- 9 The Turn of a Friendly Card: Ⅳ. Nothing Left to Lose 4:07
- 10 The Turn of a Friendly Card: Ⅴ. The Turn of a Friendly Card, Part Two 3:22
