MCMXC A.D. [UK Bonus Tracks #1] (1990)

It's a scam, sure. But like the best of scams, it also succeeds. Michael Crétu's attempt at fusing everything from easy listening sex music and hip-hop rhythms to centuries-old Gregorian chants couldn't have been more designed to tweak the nose of high art, a joyously crass stab straight at a mainstream, do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars. The result is something that shouldn't exist, but in its own way results in as much of a cultural scramble and explosion as anything Public Enemy were doing around the same time, ... Read More

It's a scam, sure. But like the best of scams, it also succeeds. Michael Crétu's attempt at fusing everything from easy listening sex music and hip-hop rhythms to centuries-old Gregorian chants couldn't have been more designed to tweak the nose of high art, a joyously crass stab straight at a mainstream, do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars. The result is something that shouldn't exist, but in its own way results in as much of a cultural scramble and explosion as anything Public Enemy were doing around the same time, crossing over the Euro-disco and new age spheres with style. Credit Crétu for an open ear for whatever works, which is precisely why "Sadeness," the first part of a longer track called "Principles of Lust," turned into a fluke worldwide hit. Snippets of monks invoking the Almighty effortlessly glide in and out of a polite but still strong breakbeat, shimmering, atmospheric synth and flute lines and a Frenchwoman whispering in a way that sounds distinctly more carnal than spiritual (as her gasps for breath elsewhere make clear). Guitar and male vocals add to the album version's try-anything-that-works approach, as do attempts at shuffling jazz beats and horns. If nothing quite equals that prime moment elsewhere on the album, MCMXC A.D. still trips out on the possibilities as it can, right from the opening "Voice of Enigma," inviting all listeners to sit back, relax, and take a gentle trip. Crétu certainly isn't trying to hide anything -- "Callas Went Away" goes right ahead and adds a sample of Maria Callas herself to the chirping birds and soft beats, while elsewhere the flutes, beats, monks, and French voices merrily go about their glossy business. About the only thing missing is the kitchen sink, making the entire album the "MacArthur Park" of its day. [The U.K. edition features several bonus tracks, including the lengthy "Back to the Rivers of Belief" and "Knocking on Forbidden Doors."] ~ Ned Raggett, Rovi Read Less

• All from $45.90
• New Music from $45.90
• Collectible from $46.83

• All Copies (1)
• CD (1)
• Choose Release (1)

• Music Details
• Seller
• Sort U.K./EUR Sellers Price: Low to High Price: High to Low Condition Condition: Reverse Release Date Release Date: Rev Sellers Near Me

• CD, New 2000, Virgin UPC: 077778642329 See Item Details ▾

  Revaluation Books HIGH Exeter, DEVON, UNITED KINGDOM

  $45.90 Add to Basket

  	Edition: 2000, Virgin CD, New	Details: UPC: 077778642329 Discs: 1 Label: Virgin Released: 2000 Alibris ID: 17962820612	Shipping Options: Standard Shipping: $3.64 Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
  Seller's Description: New. 1997
  ► Contact This Seller
  Hide Details ▴

2000, Virgin UPC: 077778642329 CD See All from $46.83