Avalon, released on May 28, 1982, is a shimmering farewell from Roxy Music, a band that transformed glam rock into a sophisticated art form. With this album, Bryan Ferry and company embraced a lush, atmospheric sound, crafting a record that feels like an elegant dream unfolding in slow motion. Romantic, enigmatic, and impeccably produced, Avalon is a cornerstone of 1980s art-pop.

Opening with the hypnotic “More Than This,” the album immediately sets a mood of wistful longing. Ferry’s velvety vocals float effortlessly over layers of sleek synthesizers and intricate guitar work by Phil Manzanera. The title track, “Avalon,” is both ethereal and haunting, its melody a perfect match for Ferry’s cryptic lyrics. “The Main Thing” brings a driving groove to the mix, its pulsating bassline grounding the album’s otherwise otherworldly feel.

The sessions for Avalon took place at Compass Point Studios in the Bahamas, and the tropical setting seeped into the album’s breezy yet sophisticated aura. Known for their attention to detail, Roxy Music layered the record with subtle textures, from Andy Mackay’s saxophone flourishes to Ferry’s understated keyboard work. Guest vocalist Yanick Étienne, discovered by chance while recording in the studio, adds a celestial touch to the title track with her soaring backing vocals.

A commercial success, Avalon reached No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart and garnered widespread critical acclaim. It marked a departure from the band’s earlier, more experimental sound, focusing instead on polished elegance and emotional resonance. The album’s romantic and refined aesthetic made it a favorite for late-night listening, and its influence can still be heard in modern synth-pop and chillwave music.

Avalon is more than an album; it’s an experience—a sonic journey into a world of mystique, sophistication, and yearning. As Roxy Music’s swan song, it captures the band at the height of their artistic powers, leaving behind a legacy as shimmering and timeless as the music itself.