Bryan Ferry – As Time Goes By (Gold Vinyl)

As Time Goes By by Bryan Ferry, released in 1999, is a stylish tribute to the pre-rock standards of the 1930s and ’40s. Known for his suave art-rock persona with Roxy Music and his solo work, Ferry here takes a sharp turn into nostalgic elegance. Covering songs made famous by Cole Porter, Johnny Mercer, and others, he croons with vintage charm, backed by lush, jazz-inflected arrangements that evoke smoky nightclubs and silver screen romance.

Rather than updating the classics with modern flair, Ferry leans fully into period authenticity. His voice, slightly weathered but still smooth, adds emotional weight and a touch of melancholy to these old-world ballads. As Time Goes By is less an act of reinvention than one of reverent immersion—a lovingly crafted homage that suits Ferry’s romanticism and attention to mood.

Reviews

“A lovingly curated, impeccably stylish album that reaffirms Ferry’s mastery of mood.” – The Guardian

“Ferry doesn’t so much reinterpret these songs as inhabit them, with understated elegance.” – AllMusic

“He treats each number like a short film—lush, longing, and perfectly lit.” – Pitchfork

“Even without irony or art-rock detachment, Ferry finds beauty in restraint.” – Rolling Stone

“Ferry’s take on these standards is sincere and luxurious, a smoky cocktail of nostalgia and class.” – BBC Music