Reviews (page 5 of 8)
Pretty fantastic album but just not really my style or something I'd want to listen to often.
I definitely know of this band. Not really quite sure if I know what songs are there's. I am pretty sure I have heard a track of theirs. These guys are very different, to my ears than any other artist that came out in the 80's that sound related to this. I feel this is a little more progressive sound than usual.
Not a big fan.
Coincidence or not, PSB were just announced to headline a day on de Lokerse and this album wasn't that bad, although PSB don't click with me completely.
Very 80s. Very poppy. Surprisingly inoffensive.
Bit of a vibe
Decent fun 80s album. 7/10
It’s ok 80s pop. My sister had this and it was in the car tape deck when I was a kid, but nothing other than It’s A Sin is even slightly familiar, which says a lot about the music, I think.
I do love synth-pop, and there are some stellar moments on this album. I most enjoyed the singles I knew: “It’s a Sin,” “Heart,” and “What Have I Done to Deserve This?” The rest didn’t jump out at me and some sounds dated, a bit too of its time. 3.5 stars
I love that 80s pop. It's a Sin is a real banger. The rest of the album... decent.
I thought this was a pretty solid electronic album. Definitely something i'd put on, even though I don't really like the genre. Flowed really easily, had some good beats. I can see being born in a different time and hanging out with a different group, how I'd fall into this.
3 stars
It was decent, but I didnt really think the tracks other than 'its a sin' was a standout for me. I feel like some of their other work is a lot better
I was never a big fan of the Pet Shop Boys growing up. Listening now, I still can't really get into it. It does have its catchy moments. I was thinking what is this dumb shopping song? They are really spelling out s-h-o-p-p-i-n-g? By the end I was singing along with them.
So, so 80s. But enjoyable.
Middle school in an album
Everything about this is 80s. It's a little techno but still complete 80s. Nothing super deep or different but enjoyable.
I like the Pet Shop Boys overall, but they lack something deeper. They should be iconic to me and yet I feel like they’re just good musicians who happen to have only a couple truly timeless classics in them…West End Girls and What Have I Done To Deserve This being it. Oh well, it doesn’t matter. There are plenty of LGBTQ+ artists who do get the job done more consistently. This album is good, achieves greatness in spots, shines when it discusses the realities and sadnesses of gay life in the 80’s, then moves on.
This is quintessential new wave 80s for sure. Lots of good bops here, especially What Have I Done to Deserve This, It’s a Sin, and Heart. I enjoyed the album and it’s probably a 3.5 for me, but not sure it quite reaches 4 territory. I really like their sound and there are a lot of interesting lyrics, but the diversity from song to song is a little lacking. I feel like once you’ve heard a few of these, you kind of know what to expect from the rest. Still a good time though!
I don’t have any real deep thoughts on a synth-pop album that was supposedly critiquing the politics of the Iron Lady. Although you can certainly dance to this.
Actually liked it
This is a tough call, I’ve always liked It’s a Sin and What Have I Done To Deserve This but in general I seem to find Pet Shop Boys albums a little samey.
I like 80s and I like cheese, but I think even for me this might be too far.
Way better than I was thinking
Pretty poppy rock. Catchy and a bit cheesy.
I am glad I found this band, but most of the songs are just too similar. They have that quintessential 80s sound that I love, but most of the tunes don’t go anywhere.
First time listen, streaming
3.0
Actually ok.
Pet Shops boys being surprisingly prominent in music history despite their laid back synth pop sound. This is their most commercially successful from 1987
Definitely has that poppy 80s sound. It culminates into some impressive songs, but more often is dismissible filler.
It's fine, although I couldn't care less...
The soundtrack to 80s dance clubs. Highlights: "One More Chance" (nice synth bass), "Rent" (cool soundscape), "It's a Sin" (so dramatic), "King's Cross" (trumpet trills are cool)
The Pet Shop Boys always struck me as a great band for when you wanted some synth pop but found Depeche Mode and New Order a bit too indie. They definitely lean just a little bit heavier on the pop side of things. It's slightly misleading until you take time to explore some of the lyrics though. A song like "Shopping" sounds like it should be the soundtrack to a date out at the mall. But dig a little deeper, and you find that it's really a critique of capitalism's influence on society, with special interests and lobbyists buying their way into power. "Actually" is full of darker moments like this, if only you can see past the dance styles of the music. The album's singles really stand out, particularly "It's a Sin", which sounds like Tears for Fears if they were injected with New Order's energy. One extra point for that song alone. I can't say that I loved every single equally and there is some filler. The slower songs don't work much for me. But there are some incredible 80s synth-pop songs throughout that make the album great.
Heavy
This is actually (hehe) a very good album. Endlessly catchy, high-octane dance pop containing some all-time classic songs. The deeps cuts get a bit lost in the mix, though. That is something their following album, Instrospective, solved tremendously by only having six tracks. But alas, that one is not on here, so this will have to suffice. Key tracks: What Have I Done to Deserve This? Rent It's a Sin
Pet Shop Boys are actually a singles band more than an album artist. This record has four of them, two of which my reaction to is actually pictured on the cover. While It's a Sin and What Have I Done to Deserve This are classics I actually endorse when it comes to dance pop. The rest of the record is mostly forgettable or (perhaps better said) should be forgotten, actually.
Pet Shop is usually good for two to three songs per album. This album holds true to that. They are middle of the road with a lot of synthesizers.
They had some decent moments in the album but not an amazing stellar moments that took your breath away or made you say wow
Another day, another totally mid British album. Lyrics were interesting and thought provoking at points but the dude’s voice was very ho hum. The pervasive synth and fake instruments were boooooooring. Especially when that happens for almost 45 minutes.
I had no expectatioons going into this, but I enjoyed the cool synths and relaxed vocals, I found myself nodding along, which is honestly rare on this list. It's a sound I associate more with early 1980's so I am surprised this was released as late as 1987.
Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the 80s.
Groovy. And kinky, with a bit of sexual dysfunction. Timmy got on top of this one. Great keyboards and bongos over raspy vocals and sketchy lyrics. Afraid to ask about the monkey rub. (3.5*s)
This is a very specific type of music that is effective, but also not my absolute favorite. The vocals are often in a very limited range, and the music is sometimes a bit too electronic for my taste. But a bunch of good songs throughout this.
I still sometimes think back to 8th grade when I knew little of music and confused the Beastie Boys and Pet Shop Boys. LOL. Only 1 of these albums is necessary on this list, but this might be the one.
Goofy and likeable, though the music is a bit weak in places where it really needs to pop. The opening track, One More Chance, sounds like a primitive DJ soundboard showcase (particularly in the first minute) and it's very off-putting, especially through a modern lens. I've found that dated experimentation is best placed at the end of an album, not at the beginning where most people will approach (and promptly be turned off). The beginning track of side 2, It Couldn't Happen Here, is a sloggish track with drunken vocals (further blurred by the string arrangement) and lack of a strong melody. But many other tracks, including What Have I Done to Deserve This, Rent, and It's a Sin, are textbook examples of how to do 80s pop correctly. The 80s production, so frequently bashed by critics and listeners, isn't as overwhelming here as with other, bigger 80s acts – which is a good thing. The synth work isn't very strong – surprising, maybe, given the Pet Shop Boys' status as a synth-pop duo – but the upbeat energy in most of the tracks makes up for it. The main contributors are fun chords and melodies, good singing (with a couple of exceptions), and decent lyricism tackling some heavy topics in a radio-friendly way. The strings are definitely hit-or-miss throughout the album: in It's a Sin, they're pop-standard and sound quite good, but in It Couldn't Happen Here, they're lethargic. You win some, you lose some. 3/5 Key tracks: What Have I Done to Deserve This, It's a Sin, Rent
I listened to the first two songs and thought, “I do like New Wave, Wham I Am”, but then the rest of the album came along, my teen years faded back to where they belong and I realized that maybe my Overton Window for synth rock had moved ever so slightly towards “It’s okay…”
definitely fun but also definitely lacking highlights: one more chance, rent, it’s a sin (sep 23 2024)
A solid and pleasantly surprising album. Always appreciate deeper or double/meaning lyrics, and there are definitely some fun and catchy beats and melodies that keep the album moving. Not something I'd play on a whim since I'm just not a big pop fan, but solid all-around. Top tracks: Shopping, It's a Sin, I Want to Wake Up
It's a Sin is the best single Pet Shop Boys released.
Lekker synthpoppy albumpje op de woensdagochtend! Maar waarom voelt elke synthpop groep de noodzaak om ook ballads te doen? Dat wil ik toch helemaal niet?? De uptempo nummers zoals Heart en Its a sin zijn echt heel leuk, lekker 80s enzo, maar de ballads zijn gewoon niet zo sterk. Die voelen vaak als een soort afterthought, alsof die ook mar op het album moesten, ik wil foute synthpop! Is dat te veel gevraagd? Blijkbaar wel. Het album zoals het nu is, bevat echt sterke nummers, maar in zn geheel komt het voor mij toch niet boven de prima uit, jammer maar het hing tegen een echt goed album voor mij aan! Hoogtepuntje is "I love you, you pay my rent" Ijzerstek tekstueel stukje heren! FAVO: What have I done to deserve this?, Rent, Its a sin, Heart
I kept getting them mixed up with the bloodhound gang. Not sure why that would be. This was okay. But now I want to listen to raunchy comedy music.
Meh
Never been a huge fan of Neil Tennant’s vocals but at least this was vaguely familiar to listen to which is always an initial bonus on this list. I actually thought there were some decent songs on this and overall, found myself enjoying it despite the vocals. Also thought the second half of the album was much stronger than the first
The slower tracks on here (e.g. It Couldn't Happen Here) aren't nearly as enjoyable as the more upbeat ones. The singles are a lot of fun.
Pop, synth, 80s, British....it all adds up.
guy on the right represents how i felt while listening to this its ok
Okay
Bright and bouncy synth that's pure pop like a glass of champagne on a speedboat hottub, but wait, what's that? dark themes and gloomy undercurrents behind the glossy surfaces. Makes me want to get my Patrick Bateman on.
Some decent tracks on this! For 80s new wave this is better than a lot of the famous acts.
++: Rent, Hit Music +: One More Chance, What Have I Done to Deserve This?, Shopping, It Couldn't Happen Here, It's a Sin, Heart, King's Cross +-: I Want to Wake Up 7,6/10
I hate Thatcher so much I wrote a synth-pop album about it
Not my favorite thing. 3.1 stars
I really liked “It’s a Sin”, but otherwise pretty generic
2.7
I finally figured out how to keep up with albums better. Most of my available listening time is while shooting. I dont like wearing headphones while working on my feet, and my phone speakers suck too much to do the albums justice. I got a small but mighty bluetooth speaker that carribiners onto my belt loop, which works waaaay better. This is the first album I listened to in this fashion. It was good working music, but it left me unmoved. The last song had a very cool funky vocal sample thing. Album cover: B+.
Its a sin! What a banging tune. I saw that live at Brighton Pride 2017 and it was so fun! Such a great memory for me. This album was fine other than that.. I really don't like the PSB mellow ballads, I dont think they work. Really here for the party tunes! Mixed bag for me
Another one?! Well, it's just more pet shop boys which isn't really my bag. But It's a Sin is a complete banger of course.
I didn't realize Colin Jost was in this band? Love that picture. This was a mixed bag for me. That cheesy 80s synth British sound grates on my nerves, but there are still some very good tracks mixed in.
I think "West End Girls" is all the Pet Shop Boys I really need. It's all pretty much the same, but for some reason I sorta like WEG. Yet another, "It was fine," from me.
4---3.5
I'm not sure what I would have thought if I didn't already have a certain reverence for Pet Shop Boys, but I do. You have to like their style and this time frame, but it's really good. "What Have I Done To Deserve This?" is just a great song.
Dated but decent.
I love the two Pet Shop Boys songs I knew before this, so I thought I'd love this. I think I may just not have been in the mood, because I thought I only liked a couple of songs. I was feeling a light 2 stars. But today I'm skipping around songs trying to remember which ones I liked, and they keep adding up as I listen to them again - Rent, Hit Music, It Couldn't Happen Here, It's a Sin, I Want to Wake Up...wait that's a 5 song run, that's half the album. I'll give it a 3 today and another listen another day.
# 302 : They've done a pretty decent job. I think Its OK, I could listen to it, very eighties. Favourite Track : It's A Sin
3,5
Actually (stylised as Pet Shop Boys, actually.) is the second studio album by Pet Shop Boys, originally released in 1987. I remember hating the last Pet Shop Boys record I got on this list (I believe I gave it a 1). This one I enjoyed a bit more. It has more of a dance pop vibe and is pretty fun honestly. It really helps if you don't take the album very seriously. I couldn't help but want to dance while listening to some of these tracks. The political lyrics were interesting as well. This was made right on the cusp of Thatcher's reelection, and we know how the Brits feel about her. Sure it's a bit corny, but it's kinda fun, simple as.
Well I can tell what my favorite goth and industrial musicians were listening to. I can definitely hear the basis of a lot of music that I like but this is also a bit too stuck in "cheesy 80s synth" sounds for me to really enjoy as a standalone work. It's interesting listening though and I'm glad I listened to it even if I probably won't revisit it.
Not for me but ok.
musti ja mirri... aktualuigi... itse asiassa on varoitus tulevasta, ja oh the irony.... kaikki kävi toteen... ohhhh the irony.... tekee kipeää kuunnella, puhuu vaan totuutta... edeltänäkijä... mistä tiesitte? mitä tiedätte??? mitä..- h-hhuhh... *ravistaa silmiään*... mitää vittua tästä nyt sanoiisi vittu980 luku poppi albumi vittuako ruvetaan kriitikoimaan tätä ketkäö vittu tekee työkseen jotain tällästä aaa hmmmmm tämä albumi poppipaskaa... mature, pretentious, comes off as alittle too self-serious..... hei kuunnellaas päivän albumi ja laitetaan lokiin ajatukset... laitetaan LOKIIN..... lokitetaas vittu tuumailut päivän albuimista!! heart
I didn't mind this, the first track was absolute trash though, why would they put that on the album let alone open with it is beyond me.
Great pop!
p581. 1987. 3 stars. Proof - if it were needed - that the Pet Shop Boys were a great singles band, but lacked the talent for a decent album. And it's dreadfully dated, darlings. Bonus points for "Rent" and the Dusty Springfield cameo.
First time listening to this duo. Im likeing these poppy synthetic tunes
Better than I expected! I wished I knew the words so I could sing along a couple times
Some absolute career defining highlights (Rent, It's a Sin, Heart, and fine, What Have I Done to Deserve This). Songs I still listen to regularly nearly 40 years later. Some brilliant pop, important cultural messages, keeping strong to their identity without making it "the thing". Probably not as constantly great as the Please debut, or the Behaviour third album which I still think is their best, a damn good album. Currently #49 on my all time LastFM play list.
Didn't really do much for me.
Of a mehhh genere that I used to dance but never listened at home or elsewhere, because it music to dance. Years later I actually heard it as a 20 something year old college suffering existencialist and saw and understood how goods the lyrics are on these songs. Emo before emo. All sad and shitty love songs of a heart broken person who sings to heal and try to fe tout of that depression by going out and enjoying life instead of staying home and wanting to die. Solid album woth flawless trnasition from song to song which actually was inpressive as some are very diferently paced than the others. 2 massive hits which still hold up and a really good supporting cast of songs. Only one song that I dont love.
Rent (Farleigh’s Version) >>>>
quite entertaining
Wow. So 80’s. So much that it sounds like a parody of the 80’s. But it’s not. It’s a bit much, not bad per se, but a bit much.
I already listened to this and commented on it. Outside of the big tracks, and while I get the Thatcher/money references, it was quite dated and I didn't love it.
Lasting memory I have of this album is been at a bbq on a warm summers evening. It’s a Sin began to play has someone arrived at the house on the track build up and made an entrance to the garden via patio door just as the thunderclap on the record sounded. Everyone turned attracted by such a dramatic entrance. That’s all it was but little things like that remind you of certain tracks. It’s a Sin is a cracker of a song and that alone makes it a great album but add in the great Dusty Springfield singing as well then you really do have a good album. Not a classic to my ears but one which gives me many happy memories of the 80’s and an album which could only come from those times. 3.8/5 2/6/24
3/5
3.5
fun:) some r bad but some of these r gonna be stuck in my head for the rest of eternity probably + mayb the closest i’ll ever get to experiencing the 80s… shout out the synthesizer
Boring, really. Never liked their hits and this just seems like overreaching 80’s synth stuff. Bonus star for a funny album cover.
Um it was okayyy some of the songs but on second listen I kind of started to dislike the vocals D: Overall not bad tho could see some of the songs randomly popping up in my playlist somtimes!
File under “not-quite-as-good-as-Depeche-Mode-or-New-Order.” Definitely of a time. When I listen to music like this, I have to remind myself that synthesizers were sort of cutting edge instruments, and though their sound dates, the music a bit I still found this fun to listen to.
I never used to love the Pet Shop Boys and thought that perhaps like other bands I once disliked (Supertramp, Queen, Blackbox) that I might hear them differently now, especially as everyone used to listen to them before we went out and they were critical darlings. I always thought they were too mainstream for my liking. Apart from stand out tracks like What Have I Done to Deserve This and It's a Sin – most of it kind of sounded the same. Neil Tennant's voice is too thin and monotonous, the chord progressions all sound like the 80s and the choruses are too repetitive, especially on the slower deep cuts that you can't really dance to. Having said that, I liked the way it critiqued the money culture of the 80s and Thatcherism in songs like Rent, Shopping and It Couldn't Happen Here.
My favorite album of all time, No.1 In Heaven by Sparks, is often said to have influenced many synthpop groups from the 80s, including New Order, Erasure, and, yes, Pet Shop Boys. However, the Pet Shop Boys themselves have either always avoided this fact, or in ways denied it, and as someone who has only spun singles by them, rather than a whole album, I hadn't a clue as to why. It turns out this reason is because they know they don't hold a candle to it. Perhaps that is an unfair comparison, but this album feels a tad bit like a direct response to the high-energy driving tempos that defined the late 70s, early 80s electronic scene. Instead, we get keyboard-coated, monotone vocal semi-ballads that only tend to pick up speed when the album, and honestly, sales of the album, need it. I mean, it certainly has lovely tracks to share. It's a Sin is one of the best of the mid-80s, and honestly the entire B-side is solid, albeit a little long-winded. There are layers upon layers of electronic bliss to dig through here, and to top it off, even the album cover is pretty funny. But something about this album just feels off to me. It doesn't feel like it even attempts to speak to me, and can come off as sterile; not in a cool, robotic way like Kraftwerk, rather in the sly, particularly British way that can come off as dry, but in turn can also come off as disinterested. There isn't a rewarding tug-and-pull between listeners, and it still suffers from that infamous 80s sheen that makes everything too clean production wise. It is certainly a good album, and no one could deny the effect this had on a niche, pop-focused musical market into the 90s. But as time passes, this becomes all too similar to the new wave it was trying to break away from. Really, it's a sin that this album doesn't lean into that energy that the hits have, as they are just powerful enough to leave me feeling fulfilled despite its flaws. However, I can only see improvements being made upon this formula. As it stands, I leave with mixed feelings, but a slight edge to the positive side of things because I can only assume the band did improve. I assume this was not just another drop in the 80s “one solid album wonderland” bucket many of their contemporaries fell into, and I look forward to confirming that theory in due time.
Pretty solid English synth pop. I liked the blending of styles, and I felt like their structures weren't often predictable which is one of my bigger gripes with any kind of music; some songs were long and exploded after a while, and others were more straightforward pop structures. Like a lot of music from this time period, some of the ideas sound like "sound explorations", where there's this new influx of synths and patches and artists were itching to try them out on their records. It's funny because there's not many eras/decades where there was such an influx of new instrument sounds and one that was particularly divergent from the decade prior (70's acoustic hippy music to 80's electronics). Some lyrics I felt were pretty bleh. "Look at my hopes, look at my dreams The currency we spent I love you, you pay my rent" I'll admit that sometimes metaphors go right over my head but I can't find some other meaning here. I don't know how I feel about this album cover. It's definitely a little silly which I'm into. That better be a real yawn!
4/24
2.5
slower music
My dad would love it im sure and I wouldnt mind hearing this at an 80s party, but nothing really exceptional
No real thoughts or opinions, just pretty mediocre. It's not my thing.
Pretty good
Итс окэй. Строчки вроде "I love you, you pay my rent" - как бы и смешно, и грустно. Я бы ожидал сильно больше энергии и драмы, но сойдет. Лучшая песня - It's a Sin.
I like music when the people making it sound like they are having a ball. Pet Shop Boys always sound like they are having a ball. It's so of it's time, but joyful with it. 'It's a sin' stands out a mile, but I also like some of the Italo Piano house vibes of the first track.
Hyvä tämäkin, mut kyl Behaviour oli parempi. Tässä aika monta turhanpäiväistä biisiä.
Honestly I feel bad but I have never been a huge Pet Shop Boys Fan. I absolutely love this genre and they have some of the best songs but I just do not enjoy his voice and I also think a lot of the songs could be done better.I love the overall sound and they do the instrumentals great but they are just one group I can't get on with compare to others. A decent listen but not a go to one so just 3 stars. Stand Out Songs: What Have I Done to Deserve This? It's a Sin Heart
Knew the singles. Liked the album
Electronic music is one of the musical genres I dislike, but I must say that I almost enjoyed this synth-pop. Because of its importance in music history, I can rate it with 3 stars.
Enjoyable but I don't know if I will listen again
pretty dated sound, but i can see how this would have been really fun when it came out. first song is pretty awful (sounds like mario music maker) but it does get better
Almost a 4.
Best song - It's a Sin
6/10
I think the problem these days with synth pop is that it has been parodied so much since it was popular that even the actual synth pop records from the 80s sound like parodies now too. You kind of have to listen to this record keeping in mind the state of music when it was released. There are actually some great lyrics on this album - "I love you, you pay my rent" is obviously tongue in cheek but it's surprisingly apropos today. Not much else to say about this one. It's ok. 2.5 rounded up to 3.
Good old 80s pop. Even back then I found the music uninteresting. It does evoke nostalgic feelings. But it hasn't gotten any better over the years. 3/5
about like every other Pet Shop Boys album. 2.5/5
S'ok. Brought me back a bit. Nice to listen to.
No one standout song for me, but not bad overall.
Ok is small doses. Average album
Album 340 of 1001 Pet Shop Boys - Actually Rating : 3 / 5 Wasn't terrible but nothing to write home about. Reminded me how much radio play they got back in the day. Certainly brings flashes of the 80s.
Fun and funky. I can see how it probably influenced the house scene in the UK.
Alright. 3
Bouncy, enjoyable.
Same vibe the whole way through. Relaxing but lacks variety/that good spice
Encore et toujours dla musique de centre d’achat
Very distinctive Euro-electric 80's style. Lyrically didn't really touch on anything too deep, but the unique style definitely makes up for some of the repetitive nature. At times it felt like an SNL skit of itself, but overall, the tracks were electric and fun and not taking anything too seriously.
Fun album that made me laugh.
Liked the tracks, made me want to get up and dance.
Some familiar and some I'm not so hot on.
This sounds just like the Pet Shop Boys!
I prefer Please but this is also a great album.
Haven’t listened to the pet shop boys before. Not bad
Tainted Love is one of the all time great songs. I liked this album.
I used to really like this album, and there are some great tunes on it, but it sounds so dated now, its electronic drums plastic and hollow. Some albums I wish could get a remake, like they do with video games these days
This is the kind of 80s music I like and I do enjoy Pet Shop Boys - this album was mostly good with a couple of tracks I didn’t really like and, although catchy and political in lyrics, It’s A Sin is obviously just Wild World by Cat Stevens.
One of the most '80s things I've ever heard. Good job I'm a sucker for a synth!
One more chance could’ve been good, but the beginning was so obnoxious that it kinda ruined it for me. What have I done to deserve this was pretty good but not fantastic Shopping is okay. I liked it enough but wasn’t anything special. Rent was the best song so far by a large margin. I liked this one quite a bit. Hit music is also pretty good, just behind rent. I like that chorus. It couldn’t happen here wasn’t great. It’s a sin takes number one, very good song I want to wake up is good but not phenomenal Heart was good but not as good as most Kings cross is probably second or third overall Overall, album was good, but wouldn’t have been upset to skip it.
interesting album, liked it better than I thought I would.
One More Chance // What Have I Done To Deserve This? // It’s A Sin //
British Synth-Pop. There is just enough differentiation in the songs to keep it interesting, but this is primarily synths and electronic drums, so it does sound a bit samey-samey after awhile. I particularly like "What Have I Done to Deserve This," which was a hit for the band and includes a female vocalist, which adds some liveliness.
It was OK - of its time
Quite enjoyed it.
3.3/5 Best Track: What Have I Done to Deserve This? (with Dusty Springfield)
Fine.
I knew 'What Have I Done to Deserve This', which is a great song title. And I remember hearing the song on the radio as a kid, so I can't say it's not memorable. But I can say that, according to Wikipedia, there is a lot more going on here than I heard. And so it maybe require more listening. I do like the general vibe of Pet Shop Boys, but I'm such a sucker for hooks and when I don't hear them, I get so sad.
This is potentially four star material, were it not for Neil Tennant's voice, which manages to be both annoying and willow-the-whisp at the same time. It sounds badly dated, but surely the quality shines through? Where 'It's A Sin' is concerned, sure. 'Shopping' or 'Rent'? Not so much. A tad overrated.
Two or three Pet Shop Boys songs in a row are fantastic. A whole album gets trying. They created a few great moments with their songs, but missed the depth and color of Depeche Mode and Eurhythmics. Still, this album brought back great personal memories of this era.
Je m’attendais à un groupe obscur et expérimental; c’était beaucoup plus pop et caractéristique des années 1989 que je ne le pensais
Pop Music - especially Hit Music - never claimed to be deep and yet there‘s some lyrical genious in songs like „Rent“. The overall experience stays focused on easy Synth Pop. 2.6
The hits are good. Otherwise not my thing.
My review echoes what the Boys probably heard from every record executive ever: "Have you got more songs like West End Girls?"
Its fine, weak opener and only had a few moments that caught my attention.
Got my interest by the first song, one more chance was both strange and brilliant.
The singles "What have I done to deserve this?" and "It is a sin" are the key tracks. "I want to wake up" is also good. I don't think I gained much by listening to the original album, but it was pleasant enough. 3.4 stars rounded down.
I really liked it, it just wasn't for me
Pretty good but PSB are more of a single than an album kind of band. Some really good stuff and some pretty meh stuff.
the Pet Shop Boys are a good indicator of how someone views sexuality. If they're into PSB, they have a wide, accepting view of sexuality. If not, they're probably more concerned about what's in someone pants.
I'm really not the biggest fan of the Pet Shop Boys. Their music is easily accessible, it's danceable but also dated and not interesting in-depth. However, this was a better album and it's all right.
There's a point about 1:30 into the second song where Neil Tennant muses "what have I done to deserve this?" and it hit me light a bolt from the blue, what have *I* done to deserve this??? I mean, I signed up for this 1001 albums thing to shake up my algorithm mix way from the same tired old songs, and here I let Pet Shop Boys sully it, We're not at the "how am I gonna get through?" part and I'm questioning how am *I* gonna get through... "It's a Sin" still goes hard though, this was enough to push it up to a mid level album
Entertaining, but I can’t imagine myself going back to it often. I think for me it’s slightly too much of its time. Cool enough, though.
The first song had me worried, but after that I liked it. Tons of crazy sounds, and decent lyrics too. I'd do 3.5 if I could, it just isn't a 4
Extremely 80s. Up to you if thats good or bad. It works for me on a few tracks and doesnt on others. But overall this had more hits than misses. First song blows tho
I can't tell you if I've ever sat down and listened to the Pet Shop Boys, but this was pretty fun. Very mid-80's synthpop, bubblegum style lyrics and beats. It was enjoyable, but I don't think I need to listen to it again anytime soon. I guess there is a time and a place for 80's pop, but it wasn't today.
Favorite was "King's Cross"
I wouldn’t count myself as a Pet Shop Boys fan but I quite enjoyed listening to this, 3*
I'm always confusing the Pet Shop Boys with another band and I expect a capella style band and then get some cheese pop instead and it will always throw me. Regardless, this is fiiine its 3 because I'm not sure I'd ever listen to again
Definitely like the femininity roxxy music of the first half of the album. Becomes a bit muddled together towards the end and I didn't find any song really sticking out. Solid 2.75 or 3
Great Album, more from a nostalgic sense than any other. I like the Pet Shop Boys but probably more of a 'greatest hits' fan. fave track - Its a sin ;-)
Top 3 Songs: 1 - Heart (9) 2 - It's a Sin (7) 3 - Shopping (3)
There's an appealing louche ennui to this album that I find appealing set against the sophisticated dance pop of this album. The singles are all good, with "it's a Sin" and "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" are bangers. I love Dusty Springfield, and she is well deployed on this, her last big hit. They released an excellent cover of "You Were Always On My Mind" around the same time as this, but didn't include it on the album (except on the subsequent extended edition), which is a loss. I like the tastefully ironic cover. The non-singles tracks are wallpaper.
Cool album. I think I like the second half better than the first. Favorite(s): What Have I Done To Deserve This, It's a Sin, I Want to Wake Up, King's Cross
Brought me back! Feelin nostalgic 🤩
This album sounds like a brand new futuristic hospital before any furniture or equipment has been moved in.
Enjoyable moments but not as good as their later work. There’s something amusing about the fusion of the bored vocal stylings over kinetic synths.
Very 80s synth pop. I recognized "What have I done to deserve this", other than that these songs are new to me. The first track had an unmistakable nod to Crazy Train in the synth line, or at least that's what I heard. "It's a Sin" isn't very subtle in its context, but in the 80s it may have been very controversial. Overall it has a very 80s sound, if you like that. I could take it or leave it
Nichts besonderes. Gut produziert aber nicht mein Geschmack
Hi energy
Pretty ok, very 80s
I still don't know what to do with the Pet Shop Boys. I guess they are okay, but I just don't get to the point where I feel like I need to choose to listen to the Pet Shop Boys on my own. I am very familiar with at least 4 tracks from Actually, and have probably heard more from the album before. I just don't feel like I'd need to come back for repeats.
A pet shop boys albums that deserves to be on the list, not really my personal taste but can respect this is a good album.
Pretty good album.
2.8 underwhelming, I think PSB are fantastic at singles but they have one type of song that tends to get old when going through an album. The only stand out sounds were the singles. Fave songs: it's a sin, rent
It’s the 80s and it’s pop and it has some great tunes but it’s too samey and it’s too cold for a whole album. But those pop hits are great.
Even in my wildest dreams, I never imagined I would one day appreciate a Pet Shop Boys song, not to mention *several ones of them*. To be clear, the first two tracks are pretty dreadful, all cheese and no real substance. But after them, I actually enjoyed *each and every one* of the songs!!! "Shopping" is a snarly, topical cut picking up the ball right where Kraftwerk had left it a few years earlier. Cynical yet bittersweet "Rent" is a small wonder, lyrically, musically and arrangements-wide. And "I Want To Wake Up" is an infectious earworm. Those three stellar tracks slap, there's no doubt about that. And the rest is very good. Apart from the two duds opening the album, that is. As a consequence, *Actually* still sounds like a mixed bag for me (openers are usually essential to *fully* enjoy a record). But I'm putting this album in my waiting list nonethelles. And that's a surprise for me, probably one of the biggest surprises I've had since I started using this app. Number of albums left to review: 466 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 252. Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 125 (including this one) Albums from the list I will certainly *not* include in mine (many others are more essential to me): 158
Continuing a string of rather mediocre British acts from the 80s and 90s. It's not bad it's just nothing special. Just bland and 80s sounding. Pretty forgettable after you listen to it. Bland.
Slick pop arrangements accompanying dark lyrics.
Take my review with a grain of salt, as this kind of music really isn't my thing, but overall I was underwhelmed. I often felt like the arrangements weren't serving the material. Ultimately, I think other bands do this kind of thing better: Yaz (Yazoo) has better vocals, New Order has better melodies, etc. I never realized that was Dusty Springfield on "What Have Done to Deserve This." Side two was the better of the two, IMO.
Not my personal favorite.
kinda fun
I criticise a lot of these albums based on the vocals. And this really has some shit vocals. But here's the thing that got it up to 3 for me. They knew! They knew well enough to get Dusty in for a track. Waiting for a decent cover of It's a sin.
This was pretty decent. Synth-pop isn't my thing, but I did enjoy it on the whole. Favorite track: It's a Sin
Enjoyed it more than I thought I would but didn’t evoke any strong emotions
Takes me back to Highschool. Wasn't really a fan back then but their stuff has definitely grown on me over the years. Some of it is a bit corny, but overall, it's pretty well written stuff.
Not as good as I expected it to be - the Dusty Springfield collaboration was a pleasant surprise, and It's A Sin is a classic that I already knew, but the rest of it feels a bit lacking in nuance (maybe that's unfair given that it's 25 years old and society has really changed regarding a lot of things they were talking about). Definitely preferred the second side to the first, but it's a 3 from me.
Very 80s.
Walmart brand version of Violator by Depeche Mode. Decent stuff, pretty catchy.
much better than i was expecting! loved it's a sin. 3.5
Throughout this album, Pet Shop Boys weave together the themes of love, desire, isolation, and societal issues. Tracks like "Shopping" critique consumer culture, while "Heart" explores the vulnerability of romantic relationships. One of the big highlights goes by the name of, "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" featuring the iconic Dusty Springfield. The collaboration between Pet Shop Boys and the soulful Springfield makes for a very interesting listen. Their contrasting yet complementary voices create a well crafted synergy. Production wise, the integration of electronic and orchestral elements creates a lush soundscape that get a futuristic feel and the duo's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the songs. ”Actually” does it’s job of delivering catchy pop songs that feel very 80s so if you are in your 40s/50s looking for nostalgia, look no further than this album.
the original gecs (?) - what if we put a bunch of wacky sounds in our songs and y know what it really worked. quintessentially 80s. best tracks: one more chance, its a sin, kings cross
Its kinda catchy but can't say i really liked any song. but didn't feel bad enough to give less than 3 stars
I get why the Pet Shop Boys are on this list. They were pretty popular, pretty catchy, and pretty (gay). But listening to this record in the year 2023, and man, I just can’t stand it. I’ve heard AJR. I’ve heard Weezer. I’ve willingly listened to Einstürzende Neubauten (Funny that “Kollaps” is on this list, and probably one of their roughest records). But I just can’t get behind Pet Shop Boys. I’m a big fan of other synth-pop bands like New Order, but I can certifiably say that the worst song on “Low Life” is better than whatever the Pet Shop Boys were cooking on “One More Chance.” Eugh. It soured the rest of the album for me. But the album is saved from being a flat one star due to the lyrics. Some great commentary over some mid-tier (and some completely washed) beats. But hey, it beats having to listen to Britney Spears one more time.
maybe i'm just not in the mood
Um, Actually, it's a pretty alright album
Upbeat, dancey, shades of Depeche Mode? Overall pretty enjoyable, just nothing to blow you away
I liked a few of the songs but didn't like it as well as I expected overall.
Sound- 80s dance pop. Some parts sound very dated. With that said, the lyrics are awesome- criticizing capitalism and far right politics. The lyrics reflect boredom, loneliness, and despair. I loved what this group had to say. While the sound of some songs may be very dated I can see why this made the list.
It was fine. I wasn't really impressed by the Pet Shop Boys, but nothing was terrible. Kind of forgettable.
3.5
nice men litt mye techno
Driving around a cloudy Amalfi coast.
first listen meh
80's as fuck. Synthetic feeling. 3.5
It has recently come to my attention that Pet Shop Boys' stockpile of bangers is larger than I gave them credit for. It's just as well, really, as when the tunes are weaker all we're left with is their distinctive brand of synth-pop, which I think is kinda naff, actually. One more 'Go West' or 'Always on My Mind' sized banger would've tipped the balance towards 4 stars, but as it is: 3.5.
Interesting postmodern commentary on consumerism while simultaneously sounding like I’m at the mall drinking an orange julius and heading to the arcade.
When I look back upon my life It's always with a sense of shame I've always been the one to blame For everything I long to do No matter when or where or who Has one thing in common too It's a sin So, its an OK album but I'm confused by its presence on this list. Why is this an album that everyone should hear before they die? Because its more 80s brit pop? Cant have too much of that? 3/5
2.5/5 80s synthpop
i dont like this genre very much but this was really good
Not a huge Pet Shop Boys fan, but this album was alright.
After the first few songs I realized I'd heard this album before and that I'd rated it before we started the group. Since I really didn't want to listen to it again, I figure I should give it that initial rating again. The fact I didn't want to listen to it should probably bring the score down, but oh well
Not really notable, another average album
Some good beats, but this was a little too disco and repetitive. I preferred Very.
pretty mid very early experimental pop like Kraftwerk but less bad
When it’s good, it’s great. But it isn’t good all the way through.
3.5
I didn't love it. May give it a relisten some day, but for now it's a three for me.
When this appeared on my daily selection, I was looking forward to reacquainting myself with it. Sadly, time hasn’t been kind to this album, aside from tracks that made it into the charts, the rest of it. It’s quite bland and a bit forgettable. 3/3
Early boy band vibes. Pop but with interesting messages / quite political
3.75
Another solid set of songs from the glum duo. Some cracking singles especially Rent. A couple of the sings wash over me but its generally good and probable improves on replay
One few songs are nice to hear.
Quintessential gay 80s music
Couple good songs. Classic 80s!
Not sure if I ever really listened to this band. Not bad
It was fine. Nothing I really liked or disliked in this one. Forgettable
Not my music. But some songs are good.
legalzinho legalzinho
Songs feel familiar, catchy, but inconsequential. The same feelings they gave me in 1987, so I guess that means the album holds up?
There are some really good tunes here, particularly Rent and It's a Sin, but it was a bit inconsistent and didn't have a huge impression on me
Good 80s album. Not something I would listen to on a regular basis
I'm not much of a Pet Shop Boys. The album was fine and I have no major complaints, but to me the music is bland and uninteresting. That being said, I actually didn't turn it off and listened to the whole thing through.
Auch klassischer 80s Sound. Kenne ich so noch von meiner Mutter.
Catchy tunes, similar vibe throughout the album. I would listen to it again, but on repeat it gets a bit boring after a while.
Easy to listen
Pet Shop Boys always get me in a good mood. Did conclude that they are mostly a 'greatest hits' band for me.
Boring and unnecessary second inclusion from this group.
Not bad but compared to their other albums this was pretty boring, everything sounded the same and only one hit/standout song.
Je préfère Please, mais c’est correct aussi. Il y a peut-être le plagia de « wild world » dans « It’s a sin », ainsi que le vocal qui est trop présent dans le mix qui m’agacent. À part ça, c’est l’fun.
I think the songwriting is good but those 80s effects make it hard for this album to feel timeless. I enjoyed it just fine anyways
I have never found myself really enjoying a Pet Shop Boys album from start to finish. There are however some undoubtedly good songs to be found within. It's A Sin particularly appealed to me. Not bad, a 2.5 for me but getting the bump to 3.
Pas mauvais, mais il n'y a aucune des chansons que je connais d'eux dessus. La meilleure est It's A Sin je crois! Leur beats sont bons, mais leur voix je l'ai toujours trouvé moyenne.
It's a Sin? It's an earworm more like. #actually #Ithinkyoullfind I got quite into this, and then the second half bored me
I like the hits of the Pet Shop Boys, What Have I Done to Deserve This? and It's a Sin are great, the rest was alright, but didn't stick out enough to make this a solid album for me. 2.5
Irgendwas zwischen 2 und 3. Ich bin gnädig und gebe 3.
Not at all my usual style, but pretty darn catchy.
No song really stood out to me, but it was alright.
the vibe is nice, but not my jam
korrek
Cool 80s Bancroft groove
my brother is also doing this generator and kept suggesting these guys to me. probably should have listened bc this was really solid pop music. i enjoy most synth stuff, but this was especially well-produced. I listened to the 2018 remaster so that may have an influence, but it was solid nonetheless. good music to do mindless office work to.
Átti þessa
Slow start but it really picks up and makes you want to move! I’d give it a 3.5 if I could.
Heard it before?: No, but have heard a few songs Enjoy it?: Yes! The traces of synth and soft sound are angelic to this, very enjoyable from start to finish Favourite song: Track 2 - What Have I Done to Deserve This?
Another album that is no more than fine. Don't see what qualifies it for any special recognition
While this album grew on me the more I listened to it, it was a snoozer overall. This might just be a preference, but I do not love synth-based music. I feel like this lacked any real groove, soul or melody. Some of the songs were long enough to create the impression of a groove or jam, but I'm not sure this was truly achieved. "I Want to Wake Up" and "Rent" were exceptions to that for me, as both did a pretty gtood job creating an atmosphere, but the rest didn't do much for me. The singing was unimpressive too. I'm not sure what the setting for this music is. Is it to dance to? Is it to listen to alone? Very 80's new-wave but not for me.
Liked it
No where near Behaviour level
actually, this is a good record.
Better than I thought it would be.
Hasn't aged as badly as you might think.
This is what the 80's sound like in my dreams.
It’s sad when people rate albums on this list low because it’s simply not their taste or hasn’t aged well, completely discounting their historic and cultural value. There’s a reason albums like this are on the list- not because they are groundbreaking masterpieces of music, but because they reflect the time period and have great historical value. The albums on this list are on here because they were influential, not because they are the best albums of all time. That’s a different list, and I think a lot of people forget that when listening. All that being said, while the relentless synth beats do get a bit tired, this album was fun and I love when melancholy/dark lyrics are set against an upbeat melody. 80s rule! My favorites: Rent, What Have I Done to Deserve This?, It’s a Sin, Heart, King’s Cross
I've been on a Swet Shop Boys kick of their song Anthem and at the very beginning they make clear that they are not the Pet Shop Boys. This album had a lot of style and made me think of West End Girls (and GTA). But it also reminded me a bit of Phil Collins in the slow style of a lot of the songs. Enjoyed this album but nothing to write home about.
Pulling this up on Apple Music, saying to myself "If this doesn't have West End Girls, we riot." It sure doesn't, but it does have "It's a Sin," which I didn't realize that I also know. These boys are pretty solid pop music, I will give them that. A great, dance-y energy throughout. I can't say that too many tracks stood out to me, but I appreciate what they were doing here. Not bad at all. Favorite tracks: It's a Sin, King's Cross. Album art: Two sleepy boys. Well, I guess the one is sleepy, I'm assuming his pal is sleepy by association. Not a bad cover though, this one's definitely distinct. 3/5
There's a few really good tracks on here, but a lot of those even wear out their welcome for me by going on just a bit longer than necessary.
Good electro pop but I don’t like electro pop
Really liked a lot of it but a whole album got a bit much?
Yeah it was OK. I guess
After their brilliant debut album with the iconic single West End Girls, you kinda expect a let down. This second album features a picture of one of them yawning on the cover. Of course it’s meant to be ironic, but it’s also very apt. They’ve got the bored, ironic synth pop sound down pat here, but this was a bit of a snooze fest for me. It’s too bad they peaked so early and were never able to strike lightning again
muy diver muy sexo muy dance party muy algo que seguro escucha luni :-) dos me hacen querer quedarme pelado lujitos de ser gey-> edit eran de cornudo SON YMO🙄
This is a fine example of synth pop and new wave. Most of these songs were new to me, and while I wouldn't say any of them just absolutely grabbed me and took me, I really did enjoy listening to the album. I'm looking forward to more Pet Shop Boys on this project. This album is more than a 3 for me, but less than a 4...one of those times I wish we had incremental star ratings!
Peppy
Some good music but nothing really memorable other than It’s a Sin
Liked this more than I expected, but still don't feel any need to come back to it. It's a lot like Depeche Mode to my ears. I wonder if they aren't very similar if you ignore lyrics, which I generally do ignore. 3/5
The sound design hasn't aged awfully well compared to something as Violator but it was still okay.
Pretty good, but this all still sounds samey to me like most new wave. But I recognize some of the songs and those hits are cool, so I kind of understand why this was chosen. C
De la synth-pop comme on aime, et comme aime encore davantage le père d'eltrapeze. Je voulais à ce titre rappeler la fois où le géniteur de mon ennemi juré s'est évanoui en voyant arriver Harry Styles sur scène. La honte.
I must have missed something listening through this. It wasn't bad but nothing screamed out that this should be on any all time list. Seemed like an 80s synth-pop album to me.
Enjoyed the first half more than I thought I would or should. Decent 80s music. Not a great back half.
Legal, mas nada marcante também. Gosto da vibe 80's. Melhor música: What Have I done to deserve this?
I remember so many of these songs from the radio in the late 80s.
15th June 2022 Listened on the drive in to London! Work night out after which was fun then stayed with harry. Not as good as Very but still enjoyable. Didn’t realise Dusty Springfield was on it, more synthy 80s goodness. 3.5 if I could.
There were some okay songs but on the whole I didn’t find it as intriguing as some of their other work
Not really my cup of tea - as in, I don't really enjoy listening to it. But I respect the wrapping of themes like critiques of Thatcherism and privatization, etc.
I enjoy their singles but don't like their sound enough for a whole album. Synthesized brass is an acquired taste that I can't seem to develop.