Foreigner - Agent Provocateur — -2013- -flac 24-192-

Album: Agent Provocateur Artist: Foreigner Re-release: 2013 Format: FLAC 24-192

Introduction

Agent Provocateur is the fifth studio album by British-American rock band Foreigner, released in 1984. The album was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard 200 chart and achieving 7x Platinum certification by the RIAA. In 2013, the album was re-released in a high-definition FLAC 24-192 format, allowing fans to experience the album in a new level of sonic clarity.

Music and Production

Agent Provocateur features some of Foreigner's most well-known songs, including the hit singles "I Want to Know What Love Is", "Waiting for a Girl Like You", and "Double Vision". The album showcases the band's signature blend of hard rock, pop, and power balladry, with lush vocal harmonies and guitar-driven instrumentation. The album was produced by Mutt Lange, who helped shape the band's sound and achieve a more polished, radio-friendly production.

2013 Re-release

The 2013 re-release of Agent Provocateur in FLAC 24-192 format offers a significant upgrade in sound quality compared to previous releases. The album has been remastered from the original analog tapes, providing a more detailed and nuanced listening experience. The high-resolution audio format allows for a wider frequency range, greater dynamic range, and a more accurate representation of the album's original sound.

Sound Quality

The FLAC 24-192 re-release of Agent Provocateur is a sonic delight. The album's soundstage is expansive, with clear and distinct separation between instruments. The guitars are crisp and detailed, while the vocals are warm and intimate. The bass lines are solid and driving, and the drums are precise and punchy. The high-definition audio format brings out subtle details in the album's production, such as the subtle use of reverb and delay effects.

Conclusion

The 2013 re-release of Foreigner's Agent Provocateur in FLAC 24-192 format is a must-have for fans of the band and classic rock in general. The album's timeless songs and catchy hooks are elevated by a stunning sonic presentation, making it a compelling listen for both old and new fans. If you're looking to revisit this classic album or experience it for the first time in high-definition audio, this re-release is an excellent choice.

are at a breaking point. They aren't just making a record; they are constructing a "provocateur"—a secret agent of sound designed to infiltrate the global charts. Jones is obsessed with a new, ethereal vision: a gospel-infused anthem called "I Want to Know What Love Is"

. Gramm is hesitant, fearing they are "selling their souls" to the synth-pop gods, but the momentum is unstoppable.

The album is born in December 1984, a cold release that catches the world off guard. It features a "spy" concept—tracks dedicated to an agent who sees life from the inside and outside. It becomes a multi-platinum smash, but the friction of its creation eventually fractures the band's most stable lineup. The 2013 Awakening

Fast forward to 2013. The master tapes, once thought to have surrendered their secrets, are pulled from the vault for a 24-bit/192kHz digital restoration

Imagine an audiophile "archaeologist" sitting in a darkened room. As the FLAC file loads, the "Agent" wakes up. At this massive resolution, the "gray synth drapery" described by critics decades ago dissolves into a crystalline atmosphere.

The 2013 high-resolution release of Foreigner's Agent Provocateur (originally released in 1984) is a definitive digital edition of the band's fifth studio album. Provided in FLAC 24-bit/192kHz, this remaster aims to capture the full breadth of the album's dense, synth-heavy production. Technical Overview Format: FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) Resolution: 24-bit / 192kHz PCM

Source: Digital transfers from the original analogue master tapes. Release Date (Remaster): 10 September 2013.

Label/Distributor: Rhino Atlantic (Warner Remasters series). Audio Fidelity & Production

This specific high-resolution version was mastered to provide greater clarity and dynamic range than standard 16-bit/44.1kHz CD releases.

Clarity: The 192kHz sampling rate specifically benefits the layered synthesizers and orchestral/gospel elements in tracks like "I Want to Know What Love Is".

Production Style: Co-produced by Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin, the album features a more polished, "glossy" sound compared to the band's earlier hard-rock roots.

Dynamics: Reviewers note that while the album marked a shift toward Adult Contemporary (AOR), the high-res transfer preserves the "punch" of harder tracks like "Tooth and Nail". Tracklist & Duration The album has a total duration of approximately 42 minutes. Track Name Highlighted Detail Tooth and Nail High-energy rock opener. That Was Yesterday A top-10 synth-driven hit. I Want to Know What Love Is Features the New Jersey Mass Choir. Growing Up the Hard Way Classic AOR track. Reaction to Action Harder-edged rhythm section. Stranger In My Own House Led Zeppelin-esque guitar work. A Love In Vain Mid-tempo standout. Down On Love Emotional ballad. Two Different Worlds Prominent keyboards and synthesizers. She’s Too Tough Fast-paced closing track. Listening Experience Foreigner - Agent Provocateur -2013- -FLAC 24-192-

The 24/192 FLAC version is highly recommended for audiophiles using high-end playback systems. The high bit depth helps minimize digital artifacts during the quiet, brooding intro of "I Want to Know What Love Is," while the extended frequency response ensures Lou Gramm’s powerful vocals remain crisp and airy.

For those looking to acquire this high-resolution edition, it is primarily available through specialized stores like HighResAudio or ProStudioMasters. Agent Provocateur - Album by Foreigner | Spotify

The 2013 release of Foreigner's album Agent Provocateur in FLAC 24-bit/192kHz format is a high-resolution digital remaster. This specific version is aimed at audiophiles seeking the highest possible fidelity from the 1984 multi-platinum album. Technical & Release Overview

Release Date: While the original album was released in 1984, this specific high-resolution digital remaster was made available around 2013 through HDtracks and other high-res music retailers. Format: FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) Resolution: 24-bit depth / 192kHz sampling rate.

Mastering: This version is typically sourced from the original master tapes, providing significantly more dynamic range and detail than the standard 16-bit/44.1kHz CD release. Album Highlights

Chart Success: The album reached #1 in the UK and #4 in the US. Key Tracks:

"I Want to Know What Love Is": The band's biggest hit, featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir. The 24/192 resolution provides much greater clarity in the layering of the choir and synth textures.

"That Was Yesterday": Known for its heavy use of synthesizers, which benefit from the increased headroom of the high-res format.

"Reaction to Action": Showcases the hard-rock edge of Lou Gramm’s vocals and Mick Jones’ guitar work. Audiophile Report & Performance

Dynamic Range: Most reports indicate a "DR" (Dynamic Range) score that remains faithful to the original production, avoiding the "loudness war" compression found in many modern remasters.

Sonic Profile: Listeners often note a "wider soundstage" and "airier" high frequencies. The percussion is snappier, and the separation between the dense 80s synthesizers and guitars is more pronounced than on the original CD.

File Size: Expect a large footprint; at 24/192, this album typically occupies between 1.5 GB to 2.2 GB of storage space.

Released on December 14, 1984, Agent Provocateur stands as a pivotal chapter in Foreigner's history, representing the apex of their commercial success and a significant shift toward a more synth-heavy, melodic rock sound. For audiophiles, the 2013 high-resolution remaster (FLAC 24-bit/192kHz) provides a definitive way to experience the album's intricate production and historical weight. Artistic Evolution and Internal Friction

By the time the band entered the studio for Agent Provocateur, internal dynamics were shifting. Guitarist Mick Jones and vocalist Lou Gramm, the band's primary songwriters, were increasingly at odds over the group's direction. While Gramm preferred the "full throttle" hard rock of their earlier years, Jones pushed for more expansive, keyboard-driven ballads. This tension produced a unique sonic landscape:

The Power Ballads: The album is anchored by the world-renowned "I Want to Know What Love Is," a gospel-infused masterpiece featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir. It remains Foreigner's only #1 single in both the US and UK.

Melodic Pop-Rock: Tracks like "That Was Yesterday" showcased a polished, radio-friendly sound that successfully bridged the gap between AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) and pop.

The Rocker Core: Songs such as "Tooth and Nail" and "She’s Too Tough" served as reminders of the band's hard-rock roots, though they were often overshadowed by the massive success of the singles. The 2013 High-Resolution Experience

The 2013 remaster in FLAC 24-bit/192kHz format is designed to capture the "freshly buffed sheen" of the album's original production. High-resolution audio at this bitrate offers:

Dynamic Range: Better separation between the layered synthesizers (six different players were credited) and Mick Jones' guitar work.

Vocal Clarity: Lou Gramm's performance, particularly the nuances in his "force and restraint" on tracks like "Down on Love," is presented with greater intimacy.

Instrumental Texture: The brooding low keyboards and "big loud noise" at the start of "I Want to Know What Love Is" gain a physical presence that is often lost in standard CD or compressed formats. Legacy

Though it would be the penultimate release for the band's classic lineup, Agent Provocateur remains a "masterpiece that has stood the test of time". It was certified triple Platinum in the US, cementing Foreigner's status as arena-rock legends. Foreigner Album Agent Provocateur Review and Discussion Tracklisting:

Foreigner's 1984 masterpiece, Agent Provocateur, reached a new level of sonic clarity with the 2013 high-fidelity reissue. Delivered in 24-bit/192kHz FLAC, this version offers audiophiles the definitive way to experience the band's shift into polished, synth-heavy rock. 💿 Technical Specifications Format: FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) Resolution: 24-bit / 192 kHz Release Year: 2013 (Original album 1984) Source: High-resolution digital remaster 🎸 Album Context

Agent Provocateur marked a pivotal moment for Foreigner. Following the massive success of 4, the band leaned further into atmospheric production and power ballads. Chart Topper: Reached #1 in the UK and #4 in the US.

The Big Hit: Features "I Want to Know What Love Is," their most successful single.

The Sound: A blend of Mick Jones’s gritty guitar and Lou Gramm’s soulful, soaring vocals. 🎧 The High-Res Experience

The 24-bit/192kHz depth provides several key improvements over the standard CD quality:

Wider Soundstage: Greater separation between the layered synthesizers and backing vocals.

Dynamic Range: More "breathing room" in the drums, especially on tracks like "Tooth and Nail."

Vocal Texture: Lou Gramm’s performance on "That Was Yesterday" reveals nuances often lost in compressed formats.

Low-End Clarity: The bass frequencies are tighter, providing a solid foundation for the 80s-era production. 🎼 Key Tracks

I Want to Know What Love Is: The gospel-infused anthem sounds massive in high-res.

That Was Yesterday: A synth-rock classic with intricate electronic textures. Tooth and Nail: A reminder of the band's hard-rock roots.

Reaction to Action: High-energy opener with sharp percussion.

💡 Quick Note: To fully appreciate the 192kHz sample rate, ensure you are using a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphones or speakers capable of reproducing high-frequency ranges. If you’d like, I can: Compare this to the original vinyl pressing Provide a track-by-track breakdown of the production

Suggest similar high-res 80s rock albums for your collection

The Sultry Sounds of Foreigner's Agent Provocateur: A Timeless Rock Classic

Released in 2013, Agent Provocateur is the tenth studio album by British-American rock band Foreigner, a group known for their distinctive blend of hard rock, pop, and progressive elements. The album, which marks the band's first foray into the studio in four years, features 11 tracks of pure, unadulterated rock music, showcasing the band's signature sound and cementing their status as one of the most iconic rock acts of all time.

The Music

The album's lead single, "When the Children Cry," sets the tone for the rest of the record, with its soaring vocals, crunching guitars, and pounding rhythms. The song's themes of love, heartache, and redemption are classic Foreigner, and vocalist Kelly Hansen's impressive range and emotional delivery bring the lyrics to life. Other standout tracks include "Dirty World," a hard-hitting rocker with a killer guitar riff, and "Coming Home," a melodic ballad that showcases the band's ability to craft memorable, anthemic choruses.

Throughout the album, the band's musicianship is on full display, with guitarist Mick Jones and keyboardist John Coury trading licks and solos, while bassist Jeff Pilson and drummer Michael York provide a rock-solid foundation. The production, handled by Mike Shipley and Foreigner, is crisp and clear, with every instrument and vocal part given room to breathe.

The FLAC 24-192 Format

For fans of high-quality audio, Agent Provocateur is available in the FLAC 24-192 format, offering a superior listening experience that showcases the album's sonic depth and complexity. FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) is a digital audio format that preserves the original audio data, providing a perfect copy of the master recording. The 24-192 specification refers to the audio's resolution and sample rate: 24 bits and 192 kHz, respectively. This means that the audio is captured with incredible precision, offering a detailed and nuanced sound that is unparalleled in the digital realm.

Listening to Agent Provocateur in FLAC 24-192 is like experiencing the album for the first time all over again. The format allows for a level of sonic clarity and precision that is simply stunning, with every instrument and vocal part rendered in exquisite detail. From the warmth of the guitars to the subtle textures of the keyboards, every element of the mix is presented with breathtaking fidelity. and the loud parts hit harder

The Legacy of Foreigner

With a career spanning over four decades, Foreigner has built a loyal following and established themselves as one of the most successful rock bands of all time. With Agent Provocateur, the band continues to push the boundaries of rock music, delivering an album that is both a loving tribute to their heritage and a bold statement of intent.

As a testament to their enduring appeal, Foreigner has sold over 80 million records worldwide, with hits like "Juke Box Hero," "Double Vision," and "I Want to Know What Love Is" becoming ingrained in the rock canon. The band's music has transcended generations, with their songs continuing to inspire new fans and influence contemporary rock acts.

Conclusion

Agent Provocateur is a triumphant return to form for Foreigner, a band that has consistently pushed the boundaries of rock music while maintaining their unique sound and style. The album's 11 tracks are a testament to the band's enduring creativity and musicianship, and the FLAC 24-192 format provides a listening experience that is second to none. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering Foreigner's music, Agent Provocateur is an essential listen that will leave you eager for more.

Album Details:

Tracklisting:

  1. "When the Children Cry"
  2. "Dirty World"
  3. "Coming Home"
  4. "Life Is a Mystery"
  5. "If I Were Young Again"
  6. "Now and Then"
  7. "In the Midnight"
  8. "Girl on the Moon"
  9. "Beautiful Behind"
  10. "Reconsider"
  11. "Drivin' Me Crazy"

Technical Specifications:

Download and Enjoy

If you're a fan of high-quality audio and rock music, Agent Provocateur in FLAC 24-192 is a must-have. With its incredible sound quality and timeless music, this album is sure to delight both old and new fans of Foreigner. So go ahead, download a copy, and experience the album in all its sonic glory!

Foreigner's Agent Provocateur, originally released in 1984, remains a cornerstone of AOR (Adult Oriented Rock) history, primarily for delivering the band's only #1 single, "I Want to Know What Love Is". The 2013 high-resolution 24-bit/192kHz FLAC release serves as a definitive digital remaster, capturing the intricate layers of its synthesizer-heavy production. Release and High-Res Context

Original Debut: Released December 7, 1984, on Atlantic Records .

High-Res Reissue: The 24-bit/192kHz version was released on September 10, 2013, aimed at audiophiles seeking the maximum dynamic range from the original master tapes.

Chart Performance: It was Foreigner's only #1 album in the UK and peaked at #4 on the US Billboard 200. Production and Audio Fidelity

Produced by Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin, the album shifted the band toward a more keyboard-driven, melodic sound compared to their earlier, grittier rock roots. The 2013 remaster highlights:

Synthesizer Layers: Features six different synthesizer players, including Larry Fast and Wally Badarou, creating a lush "bed of sound" that is especially prominent in high-resolution FLAC.

Vocal Clarity: The remaster provides exceptional clarity for Lou Gramm’s versatile vocals, ranging from the hard-rocking "Tooth and Nail" to the soulful gospel backing of the New Jersey Mass Choir on the lead single. Complete Tracklist

The album consists of 10 tracks, featuring a balance of power ballads and high-energy rockers: Lead Writer(s) Tooth and Nail Jones, Gramm That Was Yesterday Jones, Gramm I Want to Know What Love Is Growing Up the Hard Way Jones, Gramm Reaction to Action Jones, Gramm Stranger in My Own House A Love in Vain Jones, Gramm Down on Love Jones, Gramm Two Different Worlds She's Too Tough Jones, Gramm Historical Significance Foreigner Album Agent Provocateur Review and Discussion

Critical Reception & Legacy

While some purists initially critiqued the album's heavy use of synthesizers and the New Wave influence, Agent Provocateur has aged remarkably well as a definitive product of 1980s rock. The production is lush and atmospheric. The 2013 remaster breathes new life into the tracks, removing the "hiss" of older masters and boosting the punch of the rhythm section.

The standout track, "I Want to Know What Love Is," remains a timeless anthem. In 24-bit/192kHz, the choir arrangement (featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir) and the emotional delivery of lead singer Lou Gramm are presented with a warmth and presence that is truly moving.

The Hi-Res Audio Experience (24-bit / 192 kHz)

This 2013 release is part of the high-resolution audio reissue campaign, designed to extract every detail from the recording.

Tracklist

  1. Tooth and Nail – 3:54
  2. That Was Yesterday – 3:46
  3. I Want to Know What Love Is – 5:04
  4. Reaction to Action – 3:54
  5. Stranger in My Own House – 4:54
  6. A Love in Vain – 4:12
  7. Down on Love – 4:07
  8. Growing Up the Hard Way – 4:18
  9. She's Too Tough – 3:47

Release Overview

This release presents the 2013 remastered edition of Foreigner’s quintuple-platinum masterpiece, Agent Provocateur. Offered in stunning 24-bit/192kHz FLAC format, this digital download captures the album with audiophile-grade fidelity, surpassing the quality of standard CDs (16-bit/44.1kHz) and streaming services. It allows listeners to hear the nuances of the 1984 production with a clarity and dynamic range previously reserved for the original studio master tapes.