"Universal" is the tenth studio album by English synth-pop band Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD). It was released in September 1996 by Virgin Records. The album marks their return to the more electronic style of their early work.
This record returned to the band's roots with a contemporary twist, resulting in an alternative pop record. "Walking on the Milky Way", the album's arguably most memorable track, reached No. 17 in the UK Singles Chart.
"Universal" represented something of a comeback for the band, who had spent the early 90s navigating through their lack of commercial success. The album includes a diverse mix of tracks, all infused with the band's characteristic smart lyrics, and a couple of songs were modest radio hits.
However, it remains one of their lesser-known efforts as it didn't achieve the commercial success of their early '80s work. As a significant departure from their previous album "Liberator," "Universal" saw the band attempting to return to the more experimental electronic roots of their earlier years with a modern touch. Despite the limited success at the time, "Universal" is highly regarded by fans and critics for the band's adventurous return to their original electronic sound.
