About this album
Where they were
In 2000, Tangerine Dream was in a transitional phase, releasing 'Great Wall of China' as their first studio album after the departure of longtime member Edgar Froese. This album marked a shift towards incorporating more world music influences while maintaining their signature electronic sound, following their previous work 'Mars Polaris' from 1999.
Why it matters
This album is notable for its unique thematic focus on Chinese culture, which resonated with both fans and critics. It showcases Tangerine Dream's ability to evolve their sound while exploring new cultural landscapes, further solidifying their influence in the electronic music genre during the early 2000s.
Essential tracks
- "Meng Tian" — The opening track sets a captivating tone with its rich layers of synths that evoke imagery of ancient China.
- "Silence the Barking Monk" — This track combines serene melodies with intricate rhythms, reflecting the tranquil yet complex nature of monastic life.
- "Lights of Beijing" — A standout piece that encapsulates urban vibrancy through lush synthesizer arrangements, capturing the essence of modern China.
Release Date
March 20, 2000
Artist Origin
Germany
Tracklist
- 1 Meng Tian 5:13
- 2 Summer in Shauxi 3:58
- 3 The South Gate Knights 5:59
- 4 Silence the Barking Monk 7:23
- 5 Zhu Zhanji 6:14
- 6 Stranded Without Shade 4:32
- 7 No More Candles Burning 4:12
- 8 Lights of Beijing 5:44
- 9 Snow on Dragon’s Peak 4:43
- 10 Cradle of Prodigies 5:22
- 11 Tiger Forest 4:23