Eno’s fifth solo album was also his last rock and/or vocal-performance album for many years, as the work he’d done with Discreet Music led him to concentrate more on instrumental and ambient releases. But it was a striking temporary farewell, clearly reflecting his love of crisp energy he’d bring to his collaborative work with David Bowie and Talking Heads (as openly showcased in the tribute “King’s Lead Hat”) among others. “Backwater”’s punchy kick and the reflective “By This River,” from his collaborations with the duo Cluster, are among his best work.

– Ned Raggett