MCMXC a.D. (1990) - Enigma

 

Released on December 3, 1990, MCMXC a.D. is the debut studio album by Enigma, the musical project led by Romanian-German musician Michael Cretu. The album is renowned for its innovative fusion of Gregorian chants, new-age ambiance, and dance rhythms, creating a distinctive sound that left a lasting impact on the music scene of the early 1990s. 

The cover art of MCMXC a.D. features a striking image: a red Latin cross appears to have fallen from a cloud, leaving behind a shining red cross-like figure against a blue sky. This visual is framed by a thick black border with the artist and album names inscribed in gold lettering. The imagery evokes themes of spirituality and mysticism, aligning with the album's exploration of religious motifs intertwined with modern musical elements.

Michael Cretu's inspiration for MCMXC a.D. stemmed from his fascination with blending ancient sounds with contemporary music. After producing "Everlasting Love" for German pop singer Sandra, where he experimented with Gregorian chants, Cretu envisioned a project that would merge these archaic elements with modern dance beats. This concept materialized into Enigma's debut album, where he sought to create a soundscape that juxtaposed the sacred and the sensual, inviting listeners into a meditative yet provocative auditory experience. 

Tracklist:

1. The Voice of Enigma
2. Principles of Lust: Sadeness / Find Love / Sadeness (Reprise)
3. Callas Went Away
4. Mea Culpa
5. The Voice & The Snake
6. Knocking on Forbidden Doors
7. Back to the Rivers of Belief: Way to Eternity / Hallelujah / The Rivers of Belief

Upon its release, MCMXC a.D. received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its unique blend of genres and the seamless integration of Gregorian chants with modern rhythms. The album was noted for redefining the possibilities of popular music by adding such chants, with some considering it entrancing and provocative. However, some critics felt that once the novelty wore off, the underlying rhythms exhibited a sameness that could be irritating. 

The album achieved remarkable commercial success, reaching the top 10 charts in multiple countries, including the United States, where it remained on the Billboard 200 chart for over five years. It was certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The lead single, "Sadeness (Part I)," topped charts worldwide, contributing significantly to the album's widespread acclaim.

MCMXC a.D. was not without controversy. The use of Gregorian chants sampled from recordings by Capella Antiqua München led to legal action from Polydor Germany, citing infringement on its "right of personality." The case was settled with Cretu agreeing to pay compensation. Additionally, the album's exploration of religious and sexual themes sparked debates, with some critics labeling certain tracks as blasphemous. Despite these controversies, the album's popularity soared, reaching number one in at least 24 countries and achieving gold and platinum status.

MCMXC a.D. is often regarded as a seminal work that introduced a new production technique in music, influencing the new-age genre and beyond. Its innovative blend of sounds paved the way for future artists and projects that sought to merge ancient musical elements with contemporary styles, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of the 1990s.

For those interested in exploring a unique fusion of ancient and modern musical elements, MCMXC a.D. offers a captivating listening experience that continues to resonate decades after its release.