About the song
*”Atlantis,” The Shadows’ evocative instrumental released in 1963, offers a sonic journey into a realm of nostalgia and instrumental prowess. This track, a departure from the band’s earlier ventures, marked a significant turning point in their career.
Emerging from the fertile songwriting mind of Jerry Lordan, who had already gifted The Shadows with chart-topping hits like “Apache” and “Wonderful Land,” “Atlantis” showcases Lordan’s ability to craft memorable melodies within an instrumental framework. The song’s title, inspired by the mythical lost city, evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, inviting listeners to imagine distant lands and bygone eras.
The track’s commercial success, spending 17 weeks on the UK Singles Chart and peaking at number two, is a testament to its broad appeal. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors, including its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and the band’s impeccable musicianship. The Shadows’ decision to pair “Atlantis” with the more vocally oriented “I Want You to Want Me” on the single also showcases their versatility as a band.
Contemporary reviews of “Atlantis” praised its commercial viability while acknowledging its musical complexity. The New Record Mirror described it as “a pretty good record for the younger teen-agers,” highlighting its catchy appeal. Don Nicholl of Disc offered a more nuanced perspective, characterizing it as “a deceptively simple piece of rhythmic Latin instrumentation.”
While “Atlantis” may have been seen as a departure from the band’s earlier, more rock-oriented sound, it stands as a testament to The Shadows’ ability to adapt and evolve while maintaining their core sound. The track’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim have solidified its place as a cornerstone of the band’s discography and a landmark in the history of instrumental rock.”
