Other meanings of Revelation
Music
Revelation is the ninth studio album by the British new wave band Ultravox, released in 1993. It marked the return of original vocalist John Foxx, who had left the band in 1979, and was the first Ultravox album to feature him since Systems of Romance. The album was recorded after a period of inactivity for the band and was released on the IRS label.
After the commercial decline of the 1980s lineup, Ultravox disbanded in 1988. In the early 1990s, original members John Foxx and Billy Currie reconnected, leading to a reunion of the classic 1977–1979 lineup (Foxx, Currie, Chris Cross, and Warren Cann). The sessions took place in 1992–1993, with production by Rod Gammons and the band. The album was recorded at various studios in London, and the band experimented with electronic textures while incorporating more organic elements, reflecting the early 1990s alternative rock scene.
Revelation blends the atmospheric synthpop of Ultravox's late-1970s work with a more modern, guitar-driven sound. Foxx's lyrics explore themes of technology, alienation, and spiritual awakening, often using science-fiction imagery. The album's title track and singles like "I Am Alive" and "Love's Great Adventure" showcase a balance between danceable rhythms and introspective ballads. Critics noted the album's cohesion, though some felt it lacked the experimental edge of the band's earlier work.
Released in July 1993, Revelation received mixed-to-positive reviews. It did not chart in the UK or US, a disappointment given the band's legacy. However, it was praised by fans for reuniting Foxx with the band. The album was reissued in 2008 with bonus tracks, including B-sides and remixes. Despite its commercial underperformance, Revelation has gained a cult following, and its title track has been performed live by Foxx in later years.
One lesser-known fact is that the album was originally intended to be a solo project by Billy Currie, but evolved into a full band reunion. The cover art, designed by Peter Saville, features a minimalist image of a hand reaching toward a light source, symbolizing revelation. The track "The Voice" was written as a tribute to the band's early manager, and "Stranger Within" was recorded in a single take. Additionally, the album's working title was Eternity, but was changed to avoid confusion with other releases.
The album's title track was later included on the 2012 compilation 'The Very Best of Ultravox'.
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