Album Information:

About Roxy Music:

Roxy Music was an English rock band formed in 1970 by singer and keyboardist Bryan Ferry, guitarist Phil Manzanera, saxophonist and oboist Andy Mackay, and bassist Graham Simpson. Later joined by drummer Paul Thompson and drummer/keyboardist Brian Eno, the band became pioneers of art rock and avant-garde pop.

Roxy Music's self-titled debut album was released in 1972 to critical acclaim and included hit singles such as 'Virginia Plain' and 'Re-Make/Re-Model.' Their unique blend of glam rock, art rock, and electronic experimentation continued to impress with the release of their sophomore album, 'For Your Pleasure,' which marked the departure of Simpson and the addition of guitarist Eddie Jobson.

The band's third album, 'Stranded,' marked a shift towards more sophisticated and romantic themes, including the hit single 'Street Life' and the beautiful ballad 'Song for Europe.' By this time, Eno had left the band to pursue a successful career as a producer and solo artist.

Roxy Music's fourth album, 'Country Life,' marked their commercial breakthrough in the US, thanks in part to the iconic cover featuring two scantily-clad models. The album included the hit singles 'The Thrill of It All' and 'All I Want Is You.'

The band continued to evolve with their next album, 'Siren,' which featured lush arrangements and romantic ballads such as 'Love Is the Drug' and 'Both Ends Burning.' The album was notable for its use of electronic manipulation of sound and included contributions from several notable musicians, including Robert Fripp of King Crimson.

The band continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s, including 'Manifesto,' 'Flesh + Blood,' and 'Avalon,' which was their most successful album both commercially and critically. The album included hit singles such as 'More Than This,' 'Avalon,' and 'Take a Chance with Me.'

After a hiatus in the late 80s, the band reunited for a tour in 2001 and released their final album, 'Roxy Music: Live,' in 2003. Despite their relatively brief career, Roxy Music left a lasting impact on the music world, influencing artists such as David Bowie, U2, Duran Duran, and Radiohead. Their innovative use of electronic experimentation, sophisticated arrangements, and unique style helped to define the art rock genre and cement their place in musical history.

About the album Avalon:

Avalon is the eighth and final studio album by the English rock band Roxy Music, released in May 1982. It was produced by Rhett Davies and Roxy Music themselves. The album marked the end of Roxy Music's original lineup, as well as their most commercially successful period.

Avalon's sound is soft and dreamy, incorporating elements of jazz, funk, and reggae into Roxy Music's signature art-rock style. The album's songs are characterized by smooth, sophisticated instrumentation, lush electronic textures, and Bryan Ferry's elegant, crooning vocals.

The title track, 'Avalon,' is a breathtaking opener that sets the tone for the album's atmospheric vibe. Its hypnotic rhythm and sensual melody are accented by ambient synths, lush string arrangements, and haunting saxophone lines. The song was a hit single and has been covered by several artists over the years.

'More Than This' is another standout track, with its wistful, airy tone and memorable chorus. The song's cinematic quality, with its evocative lyrics and drifting melody, make it one of the album's most enduring classics.

Other notable tracks on Avalon include 'Take A Chance With Me,' a sultry ballad that features Ferry's smoky vocals and a buoyant saxophone solo, and 'The Main Thing,' an upbeat funk-inspired tune with a catchy groove.

Overall, Avalon is a beautifully crafted album that showcases Roxy Music at the height of their musical powers. Its lush and immersive soundscapes have made it a timeless classic and a beloved entry in the band's discography.

Members:

Roxy Music was formed in 1971 and was known for blending different musical styles, fashion, and art into their performances and music. Here are the key members of the band:

1. Bryan Ferry - lead vocalist, pianist, and songwriter:

Bryan Ferry was born on September 26, 1945, in Washington, England. Ferry attended the University of Newcastle where he studied fine arts and began his musical career in the early 1970s. He was influenced by various genres, including rock, pop, and jazz, which he incorporated into Roxy Music's music. Ferry also had a successful solo career and was known for his distinctive voice and suave demeanor.

2. Brian Eno - synthesizer, tape recorder, and sound effects:

Born on May 15, 1948, in Woodbridge, Suffolk, England, Brian Eno was a multi-talented musician who played the synthesizer and created sound effects for Roxy Music. Eno experimented with different sounds and techniques and became known as the 'father of ambient music.' He left the band in 1973 to pursue his solo career.

3. Phil Manzanera - guitarist:

Phil Manzanera was born on January 31, 1951, in London, England. He joined Roxy Music in 1971 and was the lead guitarist on many of their albums. Manzanera was known for his technical proficiency and his ability to create unique sounds and textures on the guitar. He also had a successful solo career and collaborated with other artists.

4. Andy Mackay - saxophonist and oboist:

Andy Mackay was born on July 23, 1946, in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, England. He played the saxophone and the oboe for Roxy Music, adding a unique and dynamic sound to the band's music. Mackay was also a trained classical musician and composer.

5. Paul Thompson - drummer:

Paul Thompson was born on March 13, 1951, in Jarrow, England. He joined Roxy Music in 1971 and was the band's drummer until 1980. Thompson's drumming style was powerful and energetic, and he provided the driving beat that propelled the band's music forward.

Together, these key members of Roxy Music created a sound that was innovative and groundbreaking, influencing many other artists in the years to come.

Track List for Avalon:

1. 'More Than This' (4:30) - An atmospheric and dreamy track with a slow tempo and smooth vocals. The lyrics suggest a longing for something more in life.

2. 'The Space Between' (4:29) - A mid-tempo track with a hypnotic rhythm and subtle guitar work. The lyrics speak of the emotional distance between people in relationships.

3. 'Avalon' (4:17) - The title track of the album, 'Avalon' features a smooth and jazzy melody with saxophone solos and enchanting vocals. The lyrics evoke an idyllic paradise where one can escape everyday life.

4. 'India' (1:44) - A brief interlude with a meditative melody and exotic instrumentation.

5. 'While My Heart Is Still Beating' (3:26) - A mellow track with a gentle rhythm and poignant lyrics about a failing relationship. The guitar work is understated yet melodic.

6. 'The Main Thing' (3:54) - A funky track with a driving beat, prominent bassline, and playful lyrics about materialism and consumer culture.

7. 'Take a Chance with Me' (4:42) - A romantic ballad with a slow tempo and yearning vocals. The lyrics express a desire for love and companionship.

8. 'To Turn You On' (4:16) - An atmospheric and moody track with a haunting melody and sensual lyrics about seduction.

9. 'True to Life' (4:25) - A upbeat and catchy track with a prominent keyboard riff and lyrics about the struggle to maintain authenticity in a world of superficiality and conformity.

10. 'Tara' (1:28) - Another brief interlude, 'Tara' features a gentle acoustic guitar melody.

Overall, Avalon is a masterpiece of 80s pop music that blends elements of jazz, funk, and rock into a lush and atmospheric sonic landscape. The album showcases Roxy Music's skillful musicianship and Bryan Ferry's captivating vocals and songwriting. Each track is carefully crafted with distinct melodies, intricate instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.

Discography for Roxy Music:

Sure, here's the complete discography for Roxy Music in chronological order:

Albums:
1. Roxy Music (1972) - June 16, 1972
2. For Your Pleasure (1973) - March 23, 1973
3. Stranded (1973) - November 23, 1973
4. Country Life (1974) - November 15, 1974
5. Siren (1975) - October 24, 1975
6. Manifesto (1979) - March 16, 1979
7. Flesh and Blood (1980) - May 23, 1980
8. Avalon (1982) - May 1, 1982

Live Albums:
1. Viva! (1976) - July 1976
2. The High Road (1983) - March 1, 1983
3. Heart Still Beating (1990) - October 29, 1990

Compilations:
1. Greatest Hits (1977) - October 1977
2. The Atlantic Years 1973-1980 (1983) - December 1, 1983
3. Street Life: 20 Great Hits (1986) - August 1, 1986
4. The Ultimate Collection (1988) - June 1, 1988
5. The Early Years (2000) - November 6, 2000
6. Concerto (2001) - November 19, 2001
7. The Thrill of It All (2018) - November 9, 2018

Singles:
1. 'Virginia Plain' / 'The Numberer' (1972) - August 4, 1972
2. 'Pyjamarama' / 'The Pride and the Pain' (1973) - June 1, 1973
3. 'Do the Strand' / 'Editions of You' (1973) - November 23, 1973
4. 'Street Life' / 'Hula Kula' (1974) - September 20, 1974
5. 'All I Want Is You' / 'Your Application's Failed' (1974) - December 6, 1974
6. 'Love Is the Drug' / 'Sultanesque' (1975) - September 19, 1975
7. 'Both Ends Burning' / 'For Your Pleasure' (1975) - December 12, 1975
8. 'Angel Eyes' / 'My Little Girl' (1979) - April 6, 1979
9. 'Dance Away' / 'Cry, Cry, Cry' (1979) - June 1, 1979
10. 'Jealous Guy' / 'To Turn You On' (1981) - January 23, 1981
11. 'More Than This' / 'India' (1982) - March 5, 1982
12. 'Avalon' / 'Always Unknowing' (1982) - June 4, 1982
13. 'Take a Chance with Me' / 'The Main Thing' (1982) - September 24, 1982
14. 'The Same Old Scene' / 'Lover' (1982) - December 3, 1982
15. 'Over You' / 'Manifesto' (1983) - February 25, 1983
16. 'Oh Yeah' / 'South Downs' (1985) - June 21, 1985

Other Releases:
1. 'More Than This' music video - 1982