Enigma Biography
Enigma is a musical project, that was started by Michael Cretu and his wife Sandra Cretu in 1990. Michael is both the composer and the producer; Sandra often provides vocals on Enigma tracks. The pair have also worked together under the name ''Sandra''. Enigma was formed by Michael and released their first album, MCMXC a.D. in December 1990. Before the album was released, Michael was cautious of the response towards the upcoming album, decided to forgo mentioning his real name and credited himself as Curly M.C.
Enigma's music evolved from Gregorian chants (MCMXC a.D.) to ethnic chants (The Cross of Changes), to modern sounds and beats (Screen Behind the Mirror, Voyageur). Enigma achieved their first commercial success through the single "Sadeness", which juxtaposed Gregorian chants with elements of overt sexuality in a strange and unusual new way; a great deal of New Age electronica owes its existence to Enigma's first album. "Sadeness" was named ''Sadeness Part I'' on its single release in Germany, and ''Sadness Part I'' on its single release in England. It is a sensual track, with an insatiable beat, which is based around questioning the sexual desires of the Marquis de Sade, hence the German release name of "Sadeness", as opposed to the English word of Sadness.
The content of Enigma's music ranges from sexuality (Principles of Lust), love (Gravity of Love), and innocence (Return to Innocence). However, Michael himself describes Enigma's music as sensual, not sexual. Every album starts with their signature horn sound mixed into the introductory music.
Michael Cretu is based in Ibiza. Until recently, he ran the "A.R.T Studios" from his mansion in the Ibiza Hills. Michael has now relocated to a purpose built mansion, in Ibiza, and has recently started installing a state-of-the-art recording studio inside one area of the building.
Enigma is under contract by Virgin Records to release a total of eight albums at a rate of one per three years. At the current rate, the last Enigma album will be released in 2012.
