Album Info
| Artist: | John Foxx |
| Album: | The Garden |
| Released: | Australia, 1981 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Europe After The Rain | 4:00 |
| Acoustic Guitar - John Foxx | ||
| A2 | Systems Of Romance | 4:03 |
| A3 | When I Was A Man And You Were A Woman | 3:37 |
| Bongos, Cymbal - Duncan Bridgeman | ||
| A4 | Dancing Like A Gun | 4:12 |
| A5 | Pater Noster | 2:34 |
| B1 | Night Suit | 4:27 |
| B2 | You Were There | 3:52 |
| B3 | Fusion / Fission | 3:50 |
| B4 | Walk Away | 3:51 |
| B5 | The Garden | 7:14 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
John Foxx's second solo album, "The Garden," released in 1981, is a seminal work in the synth-pop and new wave genres. Following his departure from Ultravox, Foxx embarked on a solo career that allowed him to explore his artistic vision more fully. "The Garden" is a testament to his ability to blend electronic music with more traditional rock elements, creating a sound that is both innovative and timeless.
The album opens with "Europe After the Rain," a track that sets the tone with its lush synth arrangements and Foxx's distinctive vocal delivery. The song's melancholic yet hopeful atmosphere captures the essence of the album, which often juxtaposes themes of nature and technology. This track, along with others like "Dancing Like a Gun" and "Pater Noster," showcases Foxx's talent for crafting evocative melodies and poignant lyrics.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Systems of Romance," which features a driving beat and intricate synth layers. The song exemplifies Foxx's ability to create complex soundscapes that are both engaging and thought-provoking. Another highlight is "Night Suit," a track that combines a haunting melody with a pulsating rhythm, demonstrating Foxx's skill in blending electronic and acoustic elements.
"The Garden" is notable for its use of both electronic and traditional instruments, including the use of a real string section, which adds depth and richness to the sound. This fusion of styles was somewhat ahead of its time, as many artists in the early 1980s were still heavily reliant on purely electronic sounds. Foxx's willingness to experiment with different textures and sounds helped pave the way for future artists in the genre.
Critically, "The Garden" was well-received upon its release. It was praised for its sophisticated production and Foxx's ability to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The album's exploration of themes such as nature, technology, and the human condition resonated with listeners and critics alike, cementing Foxx's reputation as a pioneer in the synth-pop movement.
While "The Garden" did not achieve the commercial success of some of Foxx's contemporaries, it has since gained a cult following and is regarded as a classic in the genre. Its influence can be seen in the work of later artists who have cited Foxx as an inspiration, including acts like Gary Numan and Depeche Mode.
In terms of cultural significance, "The Garden" reflects the early 1980s' fascination with the intersection of technology and nature, a theme that was prevalent in both music and visual arts of the time. Foxx's exploration of these themes through his music and lyrics offers a unique perspective on the era's cultural landscape.
Overall, "The Garden" is a masterful album that showcases John Foxx's talents as a musician and a visionary artist. Its blend of electronic and acoustic elements, combined with its thoughtful exploration of complex themes, makes it a standout work in the synth-pop genre. For fans of electronic music and new wave, "The Garden" is an essential listen that continues to inspire and captivate audiences more than four decades after its release.
