Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts cover

Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts

M83

Album 2003

About this album

Sound: "Ethereal synths and pulsing beats create a lush soundscape that feels both nostalgic and futuristic."

Where they were

Released in 2003, 'Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts' was M83's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. At this point, the band was starting to carve out their identity in the French electronic scene, blending dream pop with cinematic soundscapes that would define their later work.

Why it matters

This album was pivotal in establishing M83 as a significant force in the electronic music genre. It received critical acclaim and has influenced a range of artists in the dream pop and electronic rock scenes while achieving notable placements in various charts, solidifying M83's reputation for emotive soundscapes.

Essential tracks

  • "Run Into Flowers" — This track epitomizes the lush, atmospheric sound that M83 is known for, combining melancholic melodies with driving beats.
  • "America" — With its sweeping instrumentation and evocative lyrics, 'America' serves as a poignant reflection on identity and longing, encapsulating the album's themes.
  • "Gone" — 'Gone' features haunting vocals layered over expansive synth textures, creating an emotional climax that resonates deeply with listeners.
  • "In Church" — This track showcases M83's ability to blend ambient sounds with structured melodies, creating a serene yet powerful listening experience.

Release Date

April 15, 2003

Artist Origin

France

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Birds 0:53
  2. 2 Unrecorded 4:11
  3. 3 Run Into Flowers 4:09
  4. 4 In Church 3:58
  5. 5 America 3:06
  6. 6 On a White Lake, Near a Green Mountain 4:43
  7. 7 Noise 3:54
  8. 8 Be Wild 3:19
  9. 9 Cyborg 3:48
  10. 10 0078h 4:01
  11. 11 Gone 6:07
  12. 12 Beauties Can Die 14:36

Disc 2

  1. 1 Tsubasa 4:09
  2. 2 God of Thunder 5:54
  3. 3 In Church (Cyann & Ben version) 7:05
  4. 4 Gone (live) 5:50
  5. 5 Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts 17:43