Released in 1987, Secrets Of The Beehive is widely regarded as one of the defining recordings in David Sylvian’s solo catalogue. Moving further away from the art-pop sound associated with Japan, the album presents a deeply atmospheric and introspective collection built around acoustic instrumentation, restrained arrangements, and emotionally nuanced songwriting.

The album features tracks such as Orpheus, Let The Happiness In, and The Boy With The Gun, combining poetic lyricism with sophisticated production and understated musical textures. Sylvian’s vocal style remains central throughout, delivered with a calm and reflective tone that became increasingly characteristic of his solo work during the late 1980s.

Musically, Secrets Of The Beehive blends elements of art rock, chamber pop, jazz influences, and ambient composition, supported by contributions from several respected musicians including Ryuichi Sakamoto and Danny Thompson. The arrangements emphasise space, mood, and subtle detail rather than conventional commercial production.

Over time, the album has become recognised as one of David Sylvian’s most critically admired releases and is often considered among the strongest art-pop recordings of its era.

This Canadian cassette edition reflects the original release period of the album, issued during a time when cassette formats remained a major commercial medium for international music releases.

For collectors, cassette editions of Secrets Of The Beehive preserve one of the key recordings in David Sylvian’s evolving solo career, capturing a highly atmospheric and emotionally detailed period in his work.

Label: Virgin - VL42471, Virgin Records CANADA - VL42471
Format: Cassette, Album
Country: Canada
Released: 1987

Track Listing
A1 September
A2 The Boy With The Gun
A3 Maria
A4 Orpheus
A5 The Devil's Own
B1 When Poets Dreamed Of Angels
B2 Mother And Child
B3 Let The Happiness In
B4 Waterfront

Description
p 1987 Virgin Records Limited
© 1987 Virgin Records Limited
Manufactured by / Fabrique par Virgin Records Canada Inc., 30 Park Road, Toronto, ONT, M4W 2N4