"Archangel" is one of the most celebrated tracks by British electronic producer Burial, featured as the second track on his influential 2007 album Untrue. Released by the Hyperdub label, "Archangel" is widely recognized as a defining work in the evolution of dubstep and UK electronic music16.
Key Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | Burial (William Bevan) |
| Album | Untrue |
| Release Date | November 5, 2007 |
| Label | Hyperdub |
| Length | ~4:00 minutes |
| Genre | Dubstep, UK garage, electronica |
| BPM/Key | 135 BPM, C Minor |
Musical Style and Production
- "Archangel" is noted for its haunting, atmospheric soundscape, blending skittering 2-step garage beats, deep sub-bass, and lush, melancholic textures.
- The track is built around heavily manipulated vocal samples, notably from Ray J’s “One Wish,” which are pitch-shifted and time-stretched to create a ghostly, emotionally ambiguous effect1.
- Burial’s production style on "Archangel" emphasizes lo-fi, rain-soaked ambiance and urban nocturnal moods, evoking feelings of loneliness, longing, and fleeting hope.
Themes and Reception
- The song’s title and recurring references to angels and supernatural phenomena are deliberate, with Burial stating he wanted to connect with listeners "maybe taking a battering in their life, but [who] still handle themselves with grace"1.
- Lyrically, the repeated phrases ("Holding you / Couldn't be alone / Loving you / Kissing you / Tell me I belong") reinforce themes of isolation, yearning for connection, and vulnerability10.
- "Archangel" was the lead single from Untrue and became an underground hit, peaking at number 21 on the Flanders Ultratip singles chart1.
- The track and album received widespread critical acclaim, with Untrue being hailed as a landmark in electronic music and cited as one of the most important albums of the 21st century1.
Cultural Impact
- "Archangel" is considered a touchstone of the dubstep and future garage genres, influencing countless artists and producers.
- The song is frequently included in best-of lists and has been featured in numerous playlists and compilations, such as Apple Music's "Dubstep Essentials" and "2000s Electronic Essentials"10.
- Its evocative sound has made it a favorite for late-night listening and urban imagery, often described as capturing the melancholic beauty of a rainy city at night.
In summary:
"Archangel" by Burial stands as a seminal electronic track, combining innovative production, emotional depth, and a distinct urban atmosphere that has resonated with listeners and influenced the direction of electronic music since its release110.
