About this album

Sound: "A blend of soft rock melodies and introspective lyrics wrapped in lush harmonies and gentle instrumentation."

Where they were

Released in 1980, 'Alibi' was Americaโ€™s sixth studio album, coming after the commercial success of 'Holiday' in 1978. At this point, the duo was navigating a transition in their sound as they moved from their earlier folk-rock roots toward a more polished pop aesthetic. Despite declining commercial performance, they continued to experiment with their songwriting and production techniques.

Why it matters

Though not their most commercially successful album, 'Alibi' features notable tracks that contributed to America's legacy in soft rock. The album peaked at #46 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a period of continued but waning popularity for the band amidst changing musical trends. Its introspective themes resonated with fans, solidifying America's place in the genre during the late '70s and early '80s.

Essential tracks

  • "I Do Believe in You" โ€” This track showcases a tender melody paired with heartfelt lyrics that capture the essence of hope and belief, representative of the album's emotional core.
  • "Might Be Your Love" โ€” With its catchy hook and romantic themes, this song exemplifies America's ability to blend storytelling with melodic charm, making it a standout.
  • "Survival" โ€” Opening the album, 'Survival' sets a reflective tone that explores resilience, encapsulating the overall mood of introspection found throughout 'Alibi.'
  • "Catch That Train" โ€” 'Catch That Train' offers an upbeat rhythm combined with vivid imagery, illustrating the duo's knack for crafting engaging narratives within their songs.

Release Date

January 1, 1980

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Tracklist

  1. 1 Survival 3:16
  2. 2 Might Be Your Love 3:45
  3. 3 Catch That Train 3:02
  4. 4 You Could've Been the One 3:07
  5. 5 I Don't Believe in Miracles 3:23
  6. 6 I Do Believe in You 3:45
  7. 7 Hangover 3:41
  8. 8 Right Back to Me 3:29
  9. 9 Coastline 3:26
  10. 10 Valentine 3:34
  11. 11 One in a Million 2:52