This Is the Sea

by The Waterboys

This Is the Sea cover art

Considered the final, fully realized expression of The Waterboys' "Big Music" period, 'This Is the Sea' merges Mike Scott's ambitious, poetic songwriting with a grand, layered production influenced by artists like The Velvet Underground and Steve Reich. The album explores themes of spirituality, politics, and renewal, notably on its title track and the band's signature hit, "The Whole of the Moon." The recording marks a pivotal moment, showcasing the significant multi-instrumental contributions of Karl Wallinger for the last time and introducing Steve Wickham's violin, solidifying the record as the definitive work of the group's early, epic rock sound.

Genres

  • Big Music

Tracklist

  1. Don't Bang the Drum
  2. The Whole of the Moon
  3. Spirit
  4. The Pan Within
  5. Medicine Bow
  6. Old England
  7. Be My Enemy
  8. Trumpets
  9. This Is the Sea
  10. Beverly Penn
  11. Sleek White Schooner
  12. Medicine Bow - Extended Version
  13. Medicine Jack
  14. High Far Soon
  15. Even the Trees Are Dancing
  16. Towers Open Fire
  17. This Is the Sea - Live
  18. Then You Hold Me
  19. Spirit - Extended Version
  20. Miracle
  21. I Am Not Here
  22. Sweet Thing
  23. The Waves