Hunting High and Low

I feel a bit out of my depth on this one. I guess it’s an absolute classic, and I get why. The production is excellent, the vocals and music is undoubtedly impressive. And there are some smashing singles on here (Take On Me and Hunting High and Low) that would have been, and still would be, bops on the radio. I highly recommend playing them on loud.

Overall though there is little here to elevate it to a brilliant album. I would rather listen to those singles in a new wave compilation (for instance, outing myself as a millenial, a Grand Theft Auto radio soundtrack…) Everything after the first few tracks is fine, just fine. My main criticism is that it all feels a bit vapid. That’s probably missing the point, especially in this genre, but I guess I‘m happy to sacrifice orchestration for a dollop of angst when it comes to new wave - this makes me itchy for The Cure, New Order, the list of a-ha compatriots that I would rather listen to goes on. But, that’s entirely personal preference. If you prefer well-sung ballads, this is one for you.

Reviewed for ‘The Musicbrainz Album Club’ #8, album picked by UltimateRiff