Artist: Big Country Album: Driving to Damascus

Year: 1999
Duration: 0:0-1

A of the Album: Driving to Damascus by Big Country

Big Country is a band that has made a name for themselves in the music industry, not only because of their unique sound but also because of the emotions they evoke through their music. The album Driving to Damascus, released in 1999, is a testament to that. This album is one of the band’s most renowned works, and it reflects a culmination of their journey to find a sound that is uniquely theirs. Through this post, we will take a detailed look at the album and analyze its most noteworthy aspects.
Before delving into the album, let’s take a quick look at the band’s history. Big Country was formed in Scotland in the early 1980s, and their signature sound was largely influenced by the punk and new wave scene of that time. Their most notable sound is created through the use of guitar-based hooks, choral vocals, and pounding drum beats. The band has been a trailblazer in their genre with hits like “In A Big Country,” “East of Eden,” and “Look Away.”
Driving to Damascus is unique in the sense that it was released long after Big Country’s peak popularity. Nevertheless, this album stands out because it represents a departure from the band's earlier works. The album takes a more mature approach and interestingly, features collaborations with other artists and producers. The genre of the album is predominantly alternative rock, but it also features experimental sounds and production techniques that add interesting layers.
The album starts off with “Devil in The Eye,” a track that sets the tone for the album with its powerful guitar riffs and melodic chorus. Other notable tracks are “Fragile Thing,” which features the haunting voice of Kate Bush, and “See You,” a track that has a slightly different sound than the rest of the album but still manages to capture the essence of what Big Country is all about.
Driving to Damascus also features several highlights from a production point-of-view. The album features elements of electronica, trance, and synth-pop that might seem unusual for a band like Big Country. However, it’s this willingness to experiment that makes this album stand out. Tracks like “Send You” and “Your Spirit to Me” feature inventive production techniques and sound design that inspired many modern-day producers.
Although the album is a departure from the band’s earlier works, it still feels like a logical progression. Listening to the album, you get a sense of the band’s growth and maturity over the years. The themes explored on the album are relevant and laden with emotional depth. The lyrics touch upon ideas of spirituality, love, and self-discovery.
Driving to Damascus is an album that showcases the musical prowess of Big Country. The band has pushed beyond boundaries and experimented with unconventional styles, creating a sound that is uniquely theirs. Although not their most popular work, it remains an essential album for both longtime fans and newcomers to the band. The album stands as a testament to their talent and their unwavering penchant for innovation.