10 Enthralling Roxy Music Tracks Beyond the Hits

In the span of the last year, the venerated British art rock group Roxy Music commemorated a staggering half-century of musical innovation with their first significant world tour in more than ten years. Four original members—frontman Bryan Ferry, guitarist Phil Manzanera, sax and oboe virtuoso Andy Mackay, and powerhouse drummer Paul Thompson—reunited to the delight of fans worldwide. Although Roxy Music's period of recorded works spanned just a decade, the art rockers left a lasting impression with a legacy that resonates deeply both in Europe and internationally, highlighted by their platinum-selling final album in the US, Avalon, alongside other well-regarded singles.

The challenge of categorizing Roxy's sound under a single genre is testament to their creativity. Shying away from repetitive formulas, the members simultaneously pursued solo careers, contributing to the band’s rich tapestry of sounds. Their initial foray into music boasted a diverse confluence of styles, progressing into a more refined but still eclectic sound, and ultimately culminating in the sophisticated, dreamlike sonorities of their concluding records. Hidden within their eight studio albums are fascinating deep cuts showcasing the band's complexity.

Let us plunge into 10 standout deep tracks from Roxy Music's storied catalogue.

"The Bob (Medley)" (1972)

Combining Brian Eno’s synth wizardry with multiple musical phases, this medley from their self-titled debut album takes listeners through an epic six-minute journey of anthemic rock, bluesy interludes, and discordant finales.

"Chance Meeting" (1972)

A blend of soft piano balladry and sharp guitar and saxophone interventions makes this track an enduring avant-garde statement.

"For Your Pleasure" (1973)

This mostly instrumental track offers an immersive, psychedelic experience, drawing parallels to Eno's future ambient forays.

"Psalm" (1973)

Bryan Ferry's early composition for Roxy Music evolves from a subdued hymn into an emotive spiritual anthem, backed by the London Welsh Male Choir’s harmonies.

"A Song For Europe" (1973)

Portraying images of a somber European cabaret, this melancholic ballad is interspersed with Ferry's multilingual lyricism and Mackay’s evocative saxophone.

"Triptych" (1974)

Exploring historical musical landscapes, "Triptych" from Country Life beautifully fuses the sounds of the Renaissance with modern rock.

"Whirlwind" (1975)

This energetic track from Siren features forceful guitar work complemented by resonant bass lines, deserving of the spotlight just as much as the album's greatest hit, "Love Is The Drug."

"Manifesto" (1979)

As the title track of their sixth album, "Manifesto" signals a transformation into a more refined and elegant sound exemplified by its Eastern-inspired introduction.

"Ain't That So" (1979)

This chic and groovy tune is a precursor to the distinctive sound of Avalon and Ferry’s solo career.

"Over You" (1980)

Reflecting the early '80s pop sensibilities, "Over You" off the penultimate album Flesh & Blood delivers catchy hooks reminiscent of the New Romantic era, and accentuated by Mackay’s standout saxophone performance.

British, artrock, tour