Japan – Tin Drum VG+/VG+

Tin Drum is the fifth and final studio album by English band Japan, released in November 1981 by Virgin Records. It peaked at No. 12 on the UK charts, and featured the top 5 single “Ghosts”. It has received critical acclaim as the band’s best and most original work.

The album is a departure from the band’s previous work, with a more experimental and avant-garde sound. It incorporates elements of electronic music, jazz, and classical music, and features David Sylvian’s distinctive vocals, which have been compared to those of Scott Walker, Bryan Ferry, and David Bowie.

Tin Drum was a commercial success, and helped to establish Japan as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the new wave era. It has been praised for its originality, its sophisticated arrangements, and its powerful lyrics.

Themes

The album’s themes include love, loss, alienation, and identity. The lyrics are often cryptic and open-ended, but they are also infused with a sense of longing and despair.

Production

The album was produced by Steve Nye, who had also produced the band’s previous album, Gentlemen Take Polaroids. Nye worked closely with the band to create a sound that was both innovative and accessible.

Critical reception

Tin Drum has been praised by critics for its originality, its sophisticated arrangements, and its powerful lyrics. It has been called the band’s masterpiece, and it is considered to be one of the most important albums of the new wave era.

Legacy

Tin Drum has had a lasting influence on popular music. It has been cited as an inspiration by a wide range of artists, including Radiohead, Coldplay, and Sigur Rós. The album’s innovative sound and sophisticated arrangements continue to be admired by critics and fans alike.