Thievery Corporation – The Richest Man In Babylon (2xLP)

The Richest Man in Babylon (2×LP), released in 2002, is the third studio album by Thievery Corporation and a lush, globe-trotting journey through downtempo, dub, jazz, and world music. Eric Hilton and Rob Garza incorporate vocalists like Emilíana Torrini, Pam Bricker, and Notch to give the album both vocal presence and instrumental depth. The tracks shift between rhythmically driven pieces like “Facing East” and more cinematic moments like “Heaven’s Gonna Burn Your Eyes,” weaving in sitar, horns, dub echoes, and hypnotic percussion. What gives The Richest Man in Babylon its lasting appeal is the way its sonic variety feels coherent rather than scattered. The duo’s production balances spaciousness and detail—each arrangement feels curated rather than overstuffed. While darker and more political moments emerge in its lyrics and textures, the album still offers soothing grooves and immersive atmospheres. It remains one of their most ambitious and accessible statements.

Reviews

“But The Richest Man in Babylon is one of their more intriguing works to date, capably blending vocal theatrics, spiritual exploration and subtle songcraft in one sitting.” – PopMatters

“Thievery Corporation’s third release, The Richest Man in Babylon, is an ambitious release … the variety of music is incredible.” – Sputnikmusic