"The Cross of Changes" by Enigma, released in December 06, 1993

"The Cross of Changes" is the second studio album by the musical project Enigma, released in 1993. Here are some thoughts on the album:

Genre Fusion: Enigma, led by Michael Cretu, is known for its unique blend of new age, ambient, and electronic music. "The Cross of Changes" continues this fusion of genres, creating a sound that is both atmospheric and rhythmic.

Commercial Success: The album was a commercial success, building on the popularity of Enigma's debut album, "MCMXC a.D." It reached high chart positions in various countries and contributed to Enigma's status as a prominent act in the ambient and electronic music scenes.

Signature Sound: "The Cross of Changes" retains Enigma's signature sound characterized by Gregorian chants, atmospheric textures, and rhythmic beats. This distinctive sound became synonymous with Enigma's brand of ambient/new age music.

Spiritual and Mystical Themes: Like its predecessor, the album explores spiritual and mystical themes. The inclusion of chants and ethereal vocals contributes to the overall otherworldly and meditative atmosphere.

Hit Singles: The album includes some of Enigma's hit singles, including "Return to Innocence." This track, in particular, became widely popular for its catchy melody, Native American chants, and its memorable music video.

Production Quality: "The Cross of Changes" is well-regarded for its high production quality. Michael Cretu's skills as a producer are evident in the meticulous layering of sounds and the seamless integration of various musical elements.

Conceptual Continuity: The album maintains a conceptual continuity with its predecessor. The use of samples, especially Gregorian chants, creates a link between the two albums, establishing a recognizable Enigma sound.

Global Influences: Enigma's music often incorporates global influences, and "The Cross of Changes" is no exception. The use of different cultural elements contributes to the album's international appeal.

Album Cover and Artwork: The album cover and artwork are notable for their symbolism, contributing to the mystical and enigmatic aesthetic associated with Enigma's music.

Timeless Appeal: While firmly rooted in the early '90s, the album's atmospheric and meditative qualities give it a timeless appeal. It has continued to be appreciated by fans of ambient and new age music over the years.

In summary, "The Cross of Changes" by Enigma is a successful follow-up that solidified the project's standing in the world of ambient and electronic music. Its seamless blend of mysticism, global influences, and atmospheric production has contributed to its enduring popularity.