Originally released in 1990, MCMXC a.D. is the debut album from Enigma, the musical project created by Romanian-German producer Michael Cretu. Blending Gregorian chants, ambient textures, and contemporary rhythms, the album became one of the best-selling records of the early 1990s and introduced a new genre-crossing sound that bridged new age, electronic, and world music.
This 2018 reissue is part of the "Colours of Enigma" series on Universal Music, pressed on 180g red translucent vinyl with updated artwork by Dirk Rudolph. The heavyweight pressing ensures a quiet, stable playback experience, and the die-cut sleeve showcases the reimagined cover art.
The Album
MCMXC a.D. opens with "The Voice of Enigma" before moving into the album's centrepiece, "Principles of Lust", a three-part suite encompassing "Sadeness", "Find Love", and "Sadeness (Reprise)". "Sadeness" was released as the lead single and reached number one in over 30 countries. The album closes with the extended suite "Back to the Rivers of Belief", comprising "Way to Eternity", "Hallelujah", and "The Rivers of Belief".
Tracklist
Side A
- The Voice of Enigma
- Principles of Lust: Sadeness / Find Love / Sadeness (Reprise)
- Callas Went Away
- Mea Culpa
Side B
- The Voice & The Snake
- Knocking on Forbidden Doors
- Back to the Rivers of Belief: Way to Eternity / Hallelujah / The Rivers of Belief
| Artist | Enigma |
| Album | MCMXC a.D. |
| Format | LP, 180g Red Translucent Vinyl |
| Label | Universal Music |
| Reissue Year | 2018 |
| Series | The Colours of Enigma |
| Genre | Electronic, New Age, Ambient |
| Original Release | 1990 |