About this album

Sound: "A reflective blend of soft rock and folk, rich with poetic narratives and melodic sophistication."

Where they were

Released on September 1, 1978, 'Time Passages' was Al Stewart's seventh studio album and followed his breakthrough success with 'Year of the Cat' in 1976. At this point in his career, Stewart had established himself as a prominent figure in the soft rock scene, blending narrative storytelling with intricate melodies.

Why it matters

'Time Passages' reached No. 10 on the Billboard 200 chart and produced the hit single 'Time Passages,' which peaked at No. 7 on the Hot 100. The album is notable for its lush production and helped solidify Stewart's reputation as a skilled songwriter during the late 1970s, influencing subsequent artists in the genre.

Essential tracks

  • "Time Passages" — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of nostalgia and reflection, featuring rich instrumentation and engaging lyrics that resonate deeply.
  • "Valentina Way" — This track showcases Stewart's ability to weave vivid imagery into his songwriting, creating a sense of longing that complements the album's reflective tone.
  • "Song on the Radio" — 'Song on the Radio' highlights Stewart's knack for catchy melodies while discussing the impact of music on personal experiences, making it a standout track.

Release Date

September 1, 1978

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Time Passages 6:42
  2. 2 Valentina Way 4:04
  3. 3 Life in Dark Water 5:49
  4. 4 A Man for All Seasons 5:50
  5. 5 Almost Lucy 3:44
  6. 6 The Palace of Versailles 5:20
  7. 7 Timeless Skies 3:36
  8. 8 Song on the Radio 6:22
  9. 9 End of the Day 3:11