Ultravox, originally formed in London in 1974, became one of the pioneering bands of the new wave and synth-pop movements, blending art rock, electronic experimentation, and dramatic songwriting into a distinctive sound. After several early lineup changes and stylistic shifts, the arrival of Midge Ure as frontman in 1979 marked the band’s commercial breakthrough, leading to a string of influential albums in the 1980s such as Vienna (1980), Rage In Eden (1981), and Quartet (1982).
Known for hits like “Vienna,” “Dancing With Tears In My Eyes,” and “Reap The Wild Wind,” Ultravox achieved critical and commercial success across Europe, with their music capturing both the grandeur and melancholy of the era.
Their innovative use of synthesizers and atmospheric production helped define the sound of the decade, ensuring their legacy as one of the most important and enduring bands of the new wave era.
Ultravox’s 1983 single “Visions In Blue” is a hauntingly atmospheric track that highlights the band’s talent for blending elegance with electronic intensity. Released from the album Quartet, the song stands out with its moody synth layers, Midge Ure’s emotive vocals, and a slow-building arrangement that creates both drama and beauty. While it reached the UK Top 20, “Visions In Blue” is often remembered as one of Ultravox’s more introspective singles, showcasing the group’s artistic depth beyond their biggest chart hits. With its cinematic feel and emotional pull, the track remains a favorite among fans and a fine example of Ultravox’s unique place in the synth-pop landscape.
The song peaked at No. 15 in the UK charts on 26th March 1983.
| A-Side | Visions In Blue (4:15) (Cross, Cann, Currie, Ure) Produced By George Martin |
| B-Side | Break Your Back (3:25) (Cross, Cann, Currie, Ure) Produced By Ultravoz |
| Genre | Electronic, SynthPop |
| Release Date | 11th March 1983 |
| Label | CHRYSALIS |
| Catalogue Number | CHS 2676 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 19th March 1983 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 15 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 04 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [4 weeks] – 19th March 1983 – 9th April 1983 |
| 30-[15]-22-31 |
Officially Released Versions
Visions In Blue [Single Version] [4:15]
Visions In Blue [Full Length Version] [4:40]
Versions On Spotify
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Note: This video can only be watched by people aged 15+. You can view it on YouTube.
Lyrics
Face in the window in the night
Caught for a second by the light
Ashes of memories still aglow (only for you)
Portraits and pictures you once saw (visions in blue)
Read while the letters still remain
Sip from the wine of youth again
Oaths made in silence still return (only for you)
Cast like a shroud you’re clutching on (visions in blue)
Catch aimless smiles from passers by
Blistered and broken in reply
Breath seems to mist the hazy view (only for you)
Tears coat your lifeless eyes with dew, visions in blue, visions in blue
Ashes of memories still aglow
Portraits and pictures you once saw
Ashes of memories still aglow
Portraits and pictures you once saw
Ashes of memories still aglow
Portraits and pictures you once saw
Face in the window in the night
Caught for a second by the light
Ashes of memories still aglow (only for you)
Portraits and pictures you once saw (visions in blue)
Written By William Currie, Midge Ure, Christopher Thomas Allen, Warren Reginald Cann
