A Passage in Time cover

A Passage in Time

Dead Can Dance · 1991

64 min · 16 tracks · ethereal wave · neoclassical dark wave

A haunting tapestry of ethereal vocals and diverse instrumentation creates an otherworldly listening experience.

Why listen to this

Best for
long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys atmospheric background focus
Context
By 1991, Dead Can Dance had already established themselves with their previous albums, but 'A Passage in Time' served as a compilation that highlighted their eclectic sound up to that point. This release came shortly before the duo's shift towards more world music influences, showcasing their evolving artistry just prior to their hiatus in the mid-1990s.
If you like
ethereal wave, neoclassical dark wave
What next
Into the Labyrinth — Continues the ethereal sound while introducing new cultural influences.

A Passage in Time is an album by Dead Can Dance, released in 1991. A haunting tapestry of ethereal vocals and diverse instrumentation creates an otherworldly listening experience. 'A Passage in Time' is significant as it encapsulates the unique blend of neoclassical and world music influences that defined Dead Can Dance’s sound. The album received critical acclaim and helped solidify their reputation within the ethereal wave genre, paving the way for future artists exploring similar sonic landscapes. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does A Passage in Time sound like?

A haunting tapestry of ethereal vocals and diverse instrumentation creates an otherworldly listening experience. Rooted in ethereal wave and neoclassical dark wave.

What makes A Passage in Time by Dead Can Dance notable?

'A Passage in Time' is significant as it encapsulates the unique blend of neoclassical and world music influences that defined Dead Can Dance’s sound. The album received critical acclaim and helped solidify their reputation within the ethereal wave genre, paving the way for future artists exploring similar sonic landscapes. By 1991, Dead Can Dance had already established themselves with their previous albums, but 'A Passage in Time' served as a compilation that highlighted their eclectic sound up to that point. This release came shortly before the duo's shift towards more world music influences, showcasing their evolving artistry just prior to their hiatus in the mid-1990s.

Who is A Passage in Time for?

A Passage in Time works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on A Passage in Time?

A Passage in Time has 16 tracks, running approximately 64 minutes.

Tracklist

16 tracks·64:14

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Saltarello Standout 2:36
  • 2 Song of Sophia 1:23
  • 3 Ullyses 4:53
  • 4 Cantara Standout 5:52
  • 5 The Garden of Zephirus 1:19
  • 6 Enigma of the Absolute 4:12
  • 7 Wilderness 1:23
  • 8 The Host of Seraphim Standout 6:17
  • 9 Anywhere Out of the World 5:05
  • 10 The Writing on My Father's Hand 3:50
  • 11 Severance 3:21
  • 12 The Song of the Sibyl 3:45
  • 13 Fortune Presents Gifts Not According to the Book 6:03
  • 14 In the Kingdom of the Blind the One-Eyed Are Kings 4:09
  • 15 Bird 5:00
  • 16 Spirit 4:59

Release Date

October 1, 1991

Artist Origin

Australia

Runtime

64 min 14 sec