Eye In The Sky (1982)
The consistency of The Alan Parsons Project is simply unreal. Eye in the Sky, the band’s sixth studio album, earns yet another No Skip Album title! At this point, it almost feels unfair—how does a band stay this good, this long?
Simply put, Eye in the Sky is essential—not just for APP fans, but for music lovers in general. With its haunting melodies, razor-sharp production, and deeply resonant lyrical themes, this record stands tall in their catalog. Some would even argue it’s their magnum opus—and certainly their most commercially successful release.
The album explores themes of surveillance, voyeurism, and introspection in an increasingly watchful world. The concept is looser this time compared to earlier records, but the cohesion is still there. And when the music is this strong, the looser structure honestly works in the album’s favor.
Right out the gate, the instrumental opener Sirius kicks in with one of the most iconic riffs in pop culture history. It’s been used at sporting events for decades—you’ll recognize it instantly (especially if you’re a Chicago Bulls fan). Then, without missing a beat, it flows seamlessly into the title track, Eye in the Sky, which is—no exaggeration—one of the greatest songs in the history of recorded music. It balances sophisticated songwriting with a perfect pop hook. It’s haunting, timeless, and feels like it’s watching you right back.
From there, the record only deepens. Children of the Moon is dreamy and eerie, touching on disconnection and detachment from reality. Silence and I is a masterpiece all its own—part introspective ballad, part orchestral explosion—chronicling the pain of isolation in a chaotic world.
Then, mid-album, we get You’re Gonna Get Your Fingers Burned, an absolute earworm scorcher that feels like Elton John got swept up in the APP universe. It’s upbeat, catchy, and thematically in line with the voyeurism metaphors running through the album. Psychobabble picks the pace back up, tackling miscommunication and the inner noise we all carry.
And just when you think this album might start winding down, it throws two knockout punches. Step by Step is a spirited anthem about taking life as it comes, and Old and Wise is one of the most emotionally devastating closers the band has ever written. It’s a reflection on aging, legacy, and coming to terms with one’s place in the world—and it lands hard.
And then there’s the Expanded Edition. It includes The Naked Eye instrumental medley—a stunning bonus that distills the core of the record into a 10-minute suite. It’s a fitting encore, and honestly feels like a cherry on top of the most perfectly built concept album sundae.
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Highlight Songs:
Sirius
Eye In The Sky
Silence and I
Step By Step
Old and Wise
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Don’t you dare hesitate on whether or not to own this or not. There is a clear cut answer and it is yes. It’s thoughtful, thrilling, emotionally rich, and musically immaculate. That makes six Alan Parsons Project albums in a row that never miss. Go buy it right now. Stream it on your way to the store and then take your hard copy home. Build it a shrine, start a cult and have everyone in your cult worship this record… Or you could just buy it and play it a lot ... whichever you prefer. But I’d be happier if you followed the first option.
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Overall Rating:
5 Stars
