DanaHaynes's Music Collectibles 3-13 Enigma
Enigma is a German musical project founded by Michael Cretu in 1990, known for its distinctive blend of ambient, electronic, new age, and world music influences. The project was originally created as a solo endeavor, with Cretu, a classically trained musician and producer, playing a pivotal role in its sound. Enigma’s debut album, MCMXC a.D. (1990), was a groundbreaking success, blending Gregorian chants, ambient sounds, and electronic beats into a soothing yet hypnotic atmosphere. The album’s lead single, “Sadeness (Part I),” became an international hit and helped define the project’s signature style—a fusion of sacred and secular elements with modern technology. This unique sound garnered a massive following and earned Enigma critical acclaim, with MCMXC a.D. selling over 15 million copies worldwide.
Following the success of their debut, Enigma released a series of albums, including The Cross of Changes (1993), Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi! (1996), and The Screen Behind the Mirror (2000), each continuing to explore the themes of spirituality, introspection, and mystery. The project's music is marked by its ethereal, atmospheric qualities, often featuring choral vocals, ethnic instruments, and elaborate soundscapes. While Michael Cretu remained the central figure behind Enigma, the project occasionally involved contributions from other musicians and vocalists. Over the years, Enigma’s music has been widely recognized for its ability to evoke emotional depth and create immersive listening experiences, earning a loyal fanbase and influencing the broader genres of electronic and ambient music. With a career spanning decades, Enigma remains an influential force in the world of ambient and new age music, continuing to inspire listeners with their introspective and otherworldly sound.
