Reviews (page 4 of 7)
Didn’t want to like this cos Andy McCluskey annoys me for some reason, however this was pretty good from start to end. Largely primitive and minimalist in the beats and baselines but lots of layered synth and a generally full and immersive sound. Yeah, maybe time to get over myself and forgive McCluskey for whatever he did that annoyed me (I don’t know what it is). Best: Souvenir (I love a song where the hook isn’t the singing) Worst: Maid of Orleans (never liked this)
Synth wave pop. Kinda tame and a bit boring in the middle. Catchy at times but the right headspace is recommended.
I like some OMD and there’s good stuff here, just didn’t get into the whole album.
the most 3/5 album ever
Wasn't bad, wasn't great just sort of meh.
The whole things sounds like it belongs on the Pretty in Pink soundtrack. So In Love, not on this album, is my favorite OMD track. So so.
Really cool
more than just a pop synth album??? I could see Air or LCD getting inspo from this
One of the most accessible electronic albums I've ever listened to. I've never actually enjoyed an electronic/synth pop album. I'm feeling weird.
3/5. An interesting album that makes good use of its outside influences. I wish they had leaned more heavily into church music — the choral bits were wonderful and worked so well with the traditional New Wave components. It's worth a listen and you'll likely find something enjoyable on here, but all in all it lacks anything making it truly special .
I went through this album a couple times, thinking this was a new band to me, and then their “Enola Gay” song auto played at the album’s conclusion. Unfortunately, the closest this album comes to matching that type of energy is at the opening of “Georgia”. Overall this was an interesting listen. I enjoyed reading about how the band composed some of the sounds, but didn’t come away with any standouts otherwise.
Interesting album.
And behind this door—more synth pop! Pleasantly surprised, some of the beats were fire. Between the cover, the band name, and the album name, my expectations were pretty low. (Incidentally, architecture is amoral.)
Kinda cool LCD vibes
Overall it was just fine. I enjoyed Souvenir the most out of everything, almost like I had heard it before somewhere like a movie soundtrack.
Not unpleasant, but I would probably not listen to it again by choice
Souvenir
I thought I was going to hate this, but it actually had some decently cool songs. Not cool enough for me to go out and buy the vinyl. But cool enough to get a 3.
No known hits but enjoyed listening to them experiment with various electronic synthesized sounds . Mostly instrumental but vocals where interesting as well
A sort of honey trap. You buy it for the singles and you also get the "experimental" stuff. To be honest, the experimental stuff is hardly ground breaking. A lot of slow, noodling around on synths and mellotrons. It's all a "bit We heard Bowie's Low and thought "Well we could do that"." They couldn't. The singles are okay, but really, Human League, Thomas Dolby, and Depeche Mode were doing it better.
Never even heard of this artist before - sounds like a synth pop trailblazer with hints of Brian Eno, Morrissey and early Cure. They clearly have the chops to write good pop songs, but didn't let that stop them from experimenting, for better or worse. The icy synths are high quality for 1981, and the more ambient textures of the instrumental tracks are impressive. Some of the vocals are good, some are less than palatable. There's an unimpeachable album buried in here, but who am I to stop them from pushing boundaries?
3.5 stars
Pretty good
80’s sad boy music, but not terrible 80’s sad boy music.
Incredibly sparse synthpop. It's actually amazing how they managed to pull it off considering how little is going on in a lot of these instrumentals. I'm guessing this artistic direction came from the scarcity of resources available? If so, very ingenious. Good songs, dark but catchy. Key tracks: She's Leaving Souvenir
poppier than the name leads on
It was ok, not terrible at all.
Sexual Manoeuvres in The Dark was a hit album for Houmous & Chutney in 1961. 2.5 6/16 Joan Of Arc (made of Orleans)
A non offensive and relatively boring album. There are no great melodies, hooks, or remarkably memorable passages anywhere to be found.
I just feel extremely neutral about this. Stand-outs - She’s Leaving - Sealand
This album is long in the teeth. It sounds of its time, from its time, and while it's clearly impactful on other artists that followed it, that impact isn't really up my alley, nor it's something that strayed far further than the 80s. I do think it's musically interesting, I like experimental music that stays in touch with pop sensibility, but it didn't really work for me.
Surprisingly good! I like their later 80s-era albums and had not listened to this one. Has one of my favorite OMD tracks on it - twice (Souvenir)! Some haunting instrumentals and that classic 80s synth sound that Stranger Things borrowed from - 'twas a good listen.
Beautiful melodies and a pretty organic sound for synths. A bit monotonous, though, and not really for me.
Hit or miss on the tunes but a new listen for me.
Didn’t think much of this one. It’s fine, but a bit too dark and sparse for me. There are a couple of pretty catchy parts here, but they’re far and few between. Not a terrible album by any means, but background music at best.
Easy to listen to. Early 80's John Hughes movie vibes
OMD is capable of turning out fantastic, melody-laden pop tunes - however, at the same time their records are usually half-filled with experimental tracks that are far less compelling. *Architecture* is no different. For every outstanding pop tune like "Souvenir" there's an experimental track like "Sealand" that bogs down the proceedings. Perhaps the band was using *Low* or *The Man-Machine* as models, but each of those albums holds together well as a whole, even with the experimental excursions. Stick with OMD's greatest hits and you won't have to keep lifting the needle.
2,6 - Wenige gute Songs machen die Platte hörbar, ansonsten ist da doch sehr viel nerviges Gedudel dabei. Highlights: Souvenir, Joan of Arc (Maid Of Orleans)
Not bad, it's kind of just like early pop
From the description I thought I would not like this album. Synth is usually too 80s but I found its use here was not overbearing on most tracks and therefore the album was pleasant.
This is really really strange music. I'm not sure how much I liked it honestly, but it did keep me engaged throughout
Interesting and solid. 5.9/10
decent album i’d say, i can’t really remember it
Talking heads esque solid album no skips highlight is gravity never failed and souvenir
If you cut half the songs it would be a 5/5
Cool!
Synthpop. Det liker jeg. Dette er av den mer introverte og apatiske sorten. Selv om jeg trives med musikken, oppleves den som forglemmelig. Det er dessverre ikke så morsomt å høre på albumet fra start til slutt, men det betyr ikke at det ikke befinner seg noen ganske sterke låter her. Top 3: Souvenir, The New Stone Age, Joan of Arc
Rv
Temp
I'm torn between a 2 and 3. I didn't think the album was bad, but it's not really my thing. I enjoyed parts of it. But I just gave Limp Bizkit a 2, so I think this deserves a little better.
Interesting concept for an album but it didn't wow me. After two listens I still don't think I could tell you much about it.
More of a slow burn compared to their first two but Souvenir, She’s Leaving and Maid of Orleans are superb. Nearly got a four.
For the longest time I thought that OMD did the song Goodbye Horses that showed up in Silence of the Lambs. That does not in anyway detract or add to this albums review, just a thing that is always in my head when I hear OMD. This is a good album mainly because it has Joan of Arc on it other than that it's typical OMD. A very worthy 3 stars.
3.5
I listened to the expanded 2003 CD version. I enjoyed this much more than I would have anticipated going in. I had never heard of this band and doubt that I had ever heard anything off this album. That being said I do like synth music because I associate it with action or better said it can be like a score to whatever you are doing at the time when you hear it. This is a good album. "The New Stone Age" is probably my favorite but I like the two Joan of Arc songs a lot too.
5/10
Based on band/album name alone I was prepared for peek pretentiousness. It wasn’t bad
Not really for me. It's got some good early 80s synth beats and it's very dreamlike and atmospheric, but it doesn't speak to me, and the lyrics and vocals don't sound nearly as good.
British electronic pop. A little slower but alright. First song was tough.
I don’t like it, but I respect it. I enjoy listening to bands, pushing boundaries and exploring new turf.
Definitely shows off those early 80's vibes. Some good tunes in there, amongst the darker synths, and some nice instrumental breaks as well. I was a bit young still when this came out, so missed it the first time around, but I'd be happy to come back any time. I had Violator by Depeche Mode recently, and I can see this as an earlier version of the same sort of thing.
I'm feeling a strong 3.
Enjoyed a few songs quite a lot. A lot of songs could've been dumped though. An interesting and soothing experience.
What a strange album.
It was decent
I thought this was ok. The whispy singing didn't improve it, and I think my whole group is a bit burnt out on 80's synth pop. Otherwise... I didn't hate it?
Gets a bit boring 😴
first song makes me want to be in packed club with lasers. Rest of the album was pretty mid synth stuff
11/1089 OMD is an early pioneer of new wave and this album exemplifies the genre. Although their 5-6 hits aren't on this album, Souvenir holds up well so I'd still give it a solid 3*. Add enola gay, if you leave or electricity and this becomes a 4*. I do not agree that one needs to be on acid to enjoy but I haven't mixed the two so maybe that's the path to a 5*. It might be weird as others have said.
not bad. Wasn't sure I was going to like it at first, but there are some good songs on this one.
This reminded me of the soundtrack to one of my favorite movies Drive. Really enjoyed some of the tracks but it got a bit samey after a while.
it was ok
Could be a soundtrack to a John Hughes movie. Great vibe but forgettable.
Half beautiful, half boring
I expected classical, but got New Wave. They are a fine, yet generic album. I thought every song was going to be from the Pretty In Pink soundtrack.
Not bad, eclectic
OMD is a synth band and "Architecture" many say is their best album. me, even though most songs are around 3-4 minutes long, i tend to find them too long to the point of wanting to skip the rest of the song for the next one. and with most synth bands, there is always at least one arrogant song that lasts forever (Sealand, i'm taling to you). the album is just OK in my eyes,
This wasn't bad. The funny thing is the electronic music from that era actually feels more like real music than electronic music nowadays! I feel like Genesis or the Cars would have had an influence here.
Decent background work listening
Starts out very strong but doesn’t quite have the legs for me. “Souvenir” is worth the price of admission though. (3.5)
I didn’t not like this, but I kept waiting for this album to hook me, which it never did. Listen-to-able, but not astounding by any means.
Seeealand
2.5 (37:13, 9 tracks, 1981, 3rd album) synth pop Boring. I realize this was a transitional album during the post-punk/new wave movement and kind of set the side for the 80's but looking backwards this album isn't their best and it is just bland listening. Lean 3 side of 2.5 as I'd definitely listen to it again if I had time and. . . given enough time may come to have really like this album but there are too many better albums to invest that time in 2025
Had not heard of these guys before today, but I’m generally up for any moody new wave music. There was nothing here that made them stand out compared to other bands of this era, but it was a solid album and I'll probably revisit it at some point.
Weird, but cool 80s weird.
Pretty fancy name for 80's synth pop. I mean, some tracks include churchy-choral elements, but also some tracks sound like they were made with a cheap Casio, the kind of sounds I associate with early Atari games. All in all it's an OK listen.
After the first couple songs I was ready to be angry at this album, fearing it would be dull and overlong. But it won me over as it went on. Not something I'm rushing back to, but solid, given it's time period and potential influence on later work.
Like Psychedelic Furs, I thought of these guys as primarily one hit wonders. But was pleasantly surprised by the Bauhaus/Siouxsie Sioux vibes. Maybe a high 3, low 4 kind of situation, and landing on a 3 because ultimately it wasn't all that memorable.
This was ok
A fun listen but probably won’t ever listen again
It's refreshingly different. But that may well be due to the fact that Synthwave Pop is underrepresented on the list, because I didn't particularly enjoy anything about the album besides its distinctiveness.
Fun with something I've never heard of before. Must say it's quite a pretentious band and album name the found for themselves. Otherwise it had its ups and down, and passed me by completely first run-through but grew on me the second time. Favourite track was 'Souvenir', and low-points include, but are not limited to, 'The Romance of The Telescope,', and 'Architecture And Morality'. It had its ups and and downs, but overall definitely nothing I'll be reaching for in the future again. Low 3.
I was expecting new wave but got synth-pop instead. It really reminded me of the Swedish synth-pop band Kite. I guess what I’m trying to say is that it sounds quite modern (even though Kite leans a bit retro). There’s a good mix of synth-pop here, and I thought many of the songs would fit well as movie soundtracks. A favourite of mine was “Souvenir.” It doesn’t quite reach four stars for me after just one listen, but it was fun. A strong 3.
You know, I'm a little bit pleasantly surprised by this one...although I do stress "little bit". I thought I was going to loathe this one. But, as it turns out, I kind of liked most of the songs themselves alright, if not the delivery. That's the thing: this could be a pretty decent album if it was not such a slice of the 80's synth wave. Man, do I hate the overuse of synthesizers during that time. The shitty, fake drum beats, the lazy synth melody lines that don't really sound like the instrument they're trying to emulate...it all sounds so inorganic and sterile and obnoxious. And this record—seemingly composed exclusively by two dudes playing synthesizers—just bleeds that obnoxiousness. It gets grating pretty quick. So, this might actually be close to a 4-star record for me except that I just hate the overall sound and texture of the record so much. I think I can be gracious with a 3-star rating cause the songs themselves have some merit. 3/5
80s music to make life altering decisions about your pet to
I had heard about this before, but never gotten to listen until now. I am pleasantly surprised
Not bad, not good either.
Decent new wave album
I feel that the group's name and album art were somewhat misleading (I was expecting something like penguin cafe) but still, I enjoyed myself. I didn't have one song really stand out but enjoyed many parts when combined into a whole project. I think I will like this one a lot more if I return to it and let it grow on me.
this is pure Nostalgia. I was only 6 when this came out, but i know all the songs well. Great memories. First song is interesting, but it kind of captivated me, and then it goes into She's leaving me, which is the OMD sound that I am familiar with. Souvenir is such a hit. Sealand is interesting and not bad but a bit long. It felt out of place in the album. Joan of Arc is fantastic, as is the follow on Maid of Orleans. Architecture and Morality is a bit insipid. Georgia was pretty average. The album ends well with the beginning and the end. I really want to give this a 4, but I felt it lacked a bit in a few songs. It was very close. 3.5 stars
Interesting album. OMD was fairly unknown to me. Decent electronica from early 1980s. They took some chances with their sound, I can respect that. Not likely to get much replay with me, though.
25/10/2025 Nothing special. Not bad, but not good. Spotify listeners: 3 million.
Not what I was expecting by the name, more of a Smiths vibe but good still
Middle of the road.
This is solid electronic pop with a few minimal and experimental flourishes, complete with two standout tracks. Liked Songs Added: Souvenir Joan Of Arc
Correcto
It’s pretty German. I like the music but the singer ruins it. This is kind of the grandparent to M83.
first listen meh
Souvenir is a great song. Feels like I’ve heard it in one or more movies/tv/whatnot. Another album that might grow on me to four stars after repeated listens, but for now is just three overall.
We are now in the 400 album stretch of 70s/80s British punk/electronic/new wave music. This one was better than yesterday’s.
A bit whiny. Some pleasant noises, but otherwise pretty average. This is distinct from a lot of the other albums I’ve listened to so far, so it’s got that going for it. That isn’t always a good thing, but it’s definitely something. It’s just not really my cup of tea. This is pretty much just noise to me. The vocals really did not help. I’d rather be listening to a few other bands that make the same kind of noises but better, like Depeche Mode, which I’m sure has been mentioned by more than a few people here. Was this a pleasant way to spend the day? Absolutely, I don’t regret it. Am I going to return to this? Probably not, but I’m glad I listened to it. The hits are probably the best songs on the album, but I kinda just picked a favorite at random honestly. Hard to tell the songs apart when this is yet another hour long album filled with exclusively this kind of sound. I don’t know, maybe if I come back to it later when I’m less busy I’ll appreciate it more. As it stands, it’s nothing outstanding but isn’t terrible either. Again though, it’s unique, so I’m likely to remember it if I see it again.
All OMD sounds about the same, really. As someone who is used to The OMD Singles, this is a big more bland than the best-of
I always felt OMD were a bit insipid, and this is borne out by this album. Some of the tracks are really good, however, with very catchy tunes, but I think there's a bit too much filler. OMD were pretty influential as part of the UK synthpop scene, and this albums shows why.
A mixed bag this one. I was almost willing myself to enjoy more than I actually did. The opener is fantastic. There are some real duds though which sadly bring it down to a 3.5
later
Interesting sound but not a lot to Keem me coming back.
True New Wave that belongs on this list unlike the ninety some-odd knock offs. Electronic Symphonic done right. 3.5/5
I can see why it's on the list. Not for me though. 2.5/5. Raising to 3.
chill, kind of gave 80s rock meets crystal castles at some points, but crystal castles obviously learned from them
This album is just middle of the road. Nothing really stands out as great on it.
Meh synth
Weird.
Not my fav sound but I get it
Decent synth-pop.
It's very experimental, very eery, and its effects in modern music is clearly visible, but it isn't an album i would pick to listen specifically
I feel like these songs are the inspiration for every jam found on a John Hughes movie. It’s a rough form of a style/genre/time I really like…
yess
From some history I was reading, apparently some prominent synth pop bands of the 80s like Depeche Mode and Human League drew inspiration from OMD. Well, all I can say is OMD walked so those other bands could fly. Not a bad album, but not great either.
This was fine. Honestly this was just background noise to me and I don't remember much of it. Nothing stood out, but nothing was bad. 3/5
It was okay, but a bit boring.
This one landed just a little better than En-Tact, but not by much. I think it’s the synth-pop side of electronic music that rubs me the wrong way. The sound is polished and very of its time, but it does not really pull me in the way other electronic albums have on this list. To be fair, the last two tracks were solid and ended the album on a stronger note. Those gave me something to hold onto, but the rest of the record felt like background music that never quite took off. Overall, Architecture & Morality was a “meh” listen. Not awful, not amazing, just kind of there. Slightly better than the album I listened to right before it, but nothing I see myself revisiting.
an interesting mix of 80s synth, and like industrial. Just not interesting enough to listen to much of it--long album.
I was rooting for this album because the album name and art are super cool, but the music is less cool. It's a typical 80s sound. I wasn't enthralled by it, but the songs were kinda soothing actually. Definitely more of an ambient album and a bit experimental too. 6.5/10
This was a very chill and laid back orchestral album. This definitely wasn't an album to listen to as the focal point. But, it was really nice and relaxed background music
Didn't age well.
Can see where a lot of modern goth bands get their sound
Liked more on this one than expected. Souvenir stood out. This record came across as goth at times. Georgia shows Kraftwerk influence.
acceptable New Stone Age est vraiment bonne ça fair automne. ça tombe bien, aujourd’hui j’ai commencé à m’habiller en automne. le générateur est omniscient
Reminiscent of new order, didn’t hit me quite the same but maybe I need to give it more listens
C’est intéressant, pas trop sûr de quoi en penser
Some moments of this were very cool, others were a bit too airy and lacking impact. The cool moments were a bit too diluted over a one hour run time. 3.4/5
A unique album, or a unique group. Became popular during new wave era, and has been one of the many sound of that era. The uniqieness and versatility was fun to dance to which also helped them achieve world recognition
it was some ok 80s music but 3 days later I don't really remember anything about it. 2.5 rounding up
Beautiful music but slow and requies concentration
Not my kind of music. Still I can see the draw.
Fine, sounds a bit like diet Depeche Mode.
That's not my taste in music - But ok
So. I have to give this four stars because it is a flawed, but superior work. It shouldn't sit on the same shelf as some of the indifferent-but-broadly-inoffensive stuff I've given three stars. Urgh. This is hopeless.
Faktisk aldri hørt om før. Klassisk 80-talls-sound. Ikke så verst. Litt enerverende i lengden.
Definitely more moods and textures than your stereotypical synth-heavy new wave band. I'm not completely in love with the vocals, as sometimes it just doesn't blend well, but overall this was alright. Probably a solid 3.25/5, but nothing extraordinary to elevate it any higher than that.
Keyboards and vocals, electronic percussion? 'Meh ...
A really good album, Souvenir was my favorite song but I also liked She's Leaving and The Beginning and The End.
Actually, not a bad little album!
Pretty, a little more new wavey 80's electronic. But also nothing made it different then bands like Depeche Mode
Took me a minute to get my head around this album. It’s been a bit since an 80s album has come through, but by the end I started to enjoy it. I think I need to spend more time with it to really embrace its complexities.
Mmm.. ok, 2.8. some Kraftwerk vibes.. Nothing too memorable for me. Maybe need more listenings (I listened 2.5 times...).
Certainly interesting. Probably is the flagship album of some silly sub-genre name like experimental art-new wave. A very list-ey list album
Solid background music
I’ve never listened to anything like this, very much into it. Difficult to pull off STX without sounding hokey, but its a additive here.
I enjoyed Junk Culture, this is a little darker sounding. But still rich and the songs as a whole make this good from start to finish
OMG - OMD! Hani früehner gliebt🤗
ah das isch OMD of enola gay fame. in the new stone age meeega kaputti gitarre und so. uuuuh de synth isch aber huuuuuere geil. shes leaving macht eim jo richtig nostalgisch. und dynamik wos usegoht huuere geil. ok sehr coole 80er pop mit bitz kunstaspruch souvenir seeeehr langsam. sealand au. seehr sehr langsam athmosphärisch aber guet gmacht. joan of arc hani reeecht langwilig gfunde. de zweit joan of arc isch etz meh en popsong. coole bass cooli drum machine. the beginnind and the end chli sehr epic type musig. öhm findi schwieeeerig zum beurteile wani vo dem album halt. es isch mega eklektisch irgendwie so synthpop so richtig aber finds au z langsam zum teil und s macht mengmol z wenig afoch. komisch. glaub es 3?
first listen. a few nice tunes relies heavily on the drum machine in a few places
I generally like OMD, but this didn't really wow me. I feel that it was definitely ahead of its time so I will give it another listen. Appreciated the Mellotron.
I honestly think the album is just okay in my opinion but can get a bit boring and is long too (about 1 hour exactly). I like the new wave/synth pop style that this album has but other than that, it really can get to be repetitive at times. There were some good songs in there but almost felt too atmospheric. Another thing I did like was the Cold War feel to this album but yeah, it wasn't really special or groundbreaking. Favorite Tracks: She's Leaving, Souvenir, Sealand Rating: 3/5
Didn't think I'd like it, but pretty cool actually. Very cinematic, cooler John Hughes.
Very cool sounds. I'll need to listen more to figure out how I really feel about it. I was expecting electronic and was slightly surprised when I heard jangly guitar. It does seem primarily electric though. I think I like it more when they lean into experimental electronic feel and less when it's more like indie pop singles.
Very quiet and experimental album from the beginning of Synthie Pop.
Gave me Depeche Mode vibes only less interesting. I enjoyed it to start but then I got a bit bored
Decent new wave, had some amazing tracks, but kinda dragged a bit between them.
On Architecture and Morality, O.M.D. lean fully into their synth-heavy aesthetic, delivering a record that’s unmistakably of the early '80s—equal parts atmospheric, experimental, and awkwardly catchy. The band toggles between Eno-esque ambient excursions and hook-laden synth pop, at times evoking the chilly introspection of early Cure and at others falling into kitschy electronic sweetness. "She's Leaving" is a highlight, capturing the band's knack for melodic melancholy, while "Sealand" pushes toward artier terrain with its pounding drums and bagpipe-like drone—though its drawn-out, mostly instrumental runtime tests patience. An uneven but intriguing listen from the new wave era.
Cool harmonic months and I enjoyed it but overall kind of forgettable. Very 80s in a good way
fine background music but nothing outstanding
I feel like I have to give this three stars as although I didn't love it, there were moments that got my attention: the military drumming in Maid of Orleans, the whole of Joan of Arc, the Kraftwerk-y Sacred Heart. This raises it above its later synthpop imitators for me, none of which I have enjoyed at all, I think. Overall though I still generally find synth-based music is anodyne and lacks emotion, so I can't really connect to it or through it.
Chupito por otro álbum de new wave ochentero. Aunque últimamente no me puedo quejar, están saliendo muy buenos descubrimientos. Este álbum es más atmosférico, y menos "quejica" que otros de su estilo, con mucho sintetizador de fondo que forma una atmósfera onírica, tranquila y algo futurista, y un uso pronunciado del mellotron para crear una melodía principal que rompe esa calma. Me han gustado sobre todo los temas más poppy/dance, Souvenir y Georgia, que se agradecen entre tanto tema ambiental. Pero en general esa combinación entre temas atmosféricos/experimentales y pop/comerciales me ha parecido muy acertada y hecha con muy buen gusto, además de que el sonido del mellotron siempre me ha gustado mucho. Un álbum muy interesante y, por ahora, de los mejores dentro de su estilo.
The "architecture" doesn't really come across, but it sounds pretty
I'm so-so on the new wave stuff. Some of the electronic work is great, but some of this just wasn't my scene. 3/5
This felt like it was trying too hard to be serious. Break out more pop bangers like Souvenir - you know you want to.
Truly never heard of this artist. Interested to check it out. Not what I was expecting. A little the cure but electronic. Some pretty cool stuff. I dig it so far. The Cure mixed with M83.
Favorite Track: Joan Of Arc (Maid of Orleans)
And another from my collection
Pleasant enough to listen to.
Random thoughts: * Synthy, moody, and oh so 80s. * I only know the "If You Leave" song from 80s movie fame by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark. (OMitD). (Wow! I just noticed the way they spelled "Manoeuvres" was a play on mashing maneuvers with oeuvres.) * I was shocked to see that "If You Leave" is not their number on streamed song. It is a song called Enola Gay. Has over double the plays of "If You Leave". * I have no clue why 1001 picked such a random album by OMITD that doesn't contain either of their top 2 streamed songs. Maybe just to prove they are not the one-hit wonder I assumed they were. * If I ever don't have enough other synthy 80s music to listen to, I'll swing over to OMITD. Otherwise, I'll probably not revisit this one tbh.
Some of this was surprisingly good. I got into it more than I thought. First track is almost 45 years old and would be totally out of place on BRAT. So for it’s forward thinking and dirty warehouse vibes. 3.5 for me
Ok 80s
So purely 1980s that I ended up doing lines of coke in the bathroom of a club called Clöb and dancing until the sun came up and I went back to work on Wall Street
À lire la description, je ne m'attendais pas à un album de New Wave. Il n'y a rien de mal à ça, mais je trouve que l'album a mieux commencé qu'il a terminé. Les chansons plus lentes ne sont pas très intéressantes. Pas mauvais, mais un peu inégal. 3/5
I wouldn’t say it’s a must hear, but I liked it.
Не расслушал с первого раза. Но интересно.
Vreemd genoeg vind ik dit geen hele vervelende plaat, ondanks het decennium en ondanks de standaarduitvoering klagende koorknaap die de boel aan elkaar zingt. New Wave met iets meer nadruk op de synthjes, dus noemen we het synth pop ofzo. Écht lekker of leuk wordt het niet, dus we hebben het niet over een topscore. De inkakker bij track 4 bijvoorbeeld wil je eigenlijk niet. Maar voor zo'n album uit deze tijd ben ik positief verrast. Het experimentele en industriële gespinvis vind ik een pluspunt. Ik ga voor 3 sterren. In een grote kuip met 80's drek is dit net wat minder grijs en dat waardeer ik.
I always thought the band name was pretentious nonsense and I never listened to them but I mostly enjoyed this
Super!
Some of this hurt my head. Others I enjoyed. Great memories
This was an alright album, nothing exciting but it was fine playing in the background. Fairly meh at times but it's okay.
Der Sound der 80er, elektronische Musik. Joan of Arc kennt man, war ein ganz großer Hit
New wave goth rock. I dont know the difference. Its the music that the southpark goths would do their little dance to. Good stuff though. I like the synths. Breathy vocals are good. I enjoyed. Not amazing but good and worth the listen
I finally have an answer to the question of what would happen if someone tried to make a new age easy listening album but hired a singer with a voice like nails on a chalkboard.
She’s Leaving // Souvenir // Sealand //
Mostly sounded same-y
Lovely album 3/5 #musicsky #albumsky #musicchallenge
Yeah was groovy
I'm 50/50 on this, I liked it, but gets a bit too boring and sombre in places.
Kind of digging it.
Pretty artsy sounding synthpop.
Not bad. Nothing overly exciting either.
Decent.
Ok
The New Stone Age (6/10) She’s Leaving (6/10) Souvenirs (8/10) Sealand (4/10) Joan of Arc (8/10) Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans) (7/10) Architecture and Morality (2/10) Georgia (7/10) The Beginning and the End (7/10) 6.1/10
It's okay.
Pretty medium, but I do like tambourine man
Started out really great. Souvenir is a banger! I think it looses steam on the other half.
Not a bad listen but then I let the recommended songs play and ended up in 80s nightmare land so maybe not right now.
Solid album, feels like it maybe tails off in the second half.
Weird but cool
I thought this album was gonna be great but it lost me. It has a definite charm to it, and I appreciate songs like Souvenir a lot. Right up my alley.
A nice synthpop album but nothing here blew me away
No. 314/1001 The New Stone Age 3/5 She's Leaving 4/5 Souvenir 4/5 Sealand 3/5 Joan of Arc 3/5 Joan of Arc 4/5 Architecture and Morality 2/5 Georgia 3/5 The Beginning and the End 3/5 Average: 3,22 Actually a nice surprise. Not my personal favorite, but really interesting listen.
I've always respected Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark even though it's a name I never wanted to write down. And, I've never heard a full record of theirs. To slip into a whole album start to finish is something new for me. I appreciate that they display a greater range across the songs collected here, even if their strengths are in the softer pop arrangements that prioritize wistful and longing emotion. That they'll take it from The New Stone Age to Sealand is good even if I like those tracks less than Souvenir or Joan of Arc (Maid of Orleans). Turns out they live up to the name—just took me a while to find the light.
Je dirais pas que j'ai aimé ça, mais j'ai beaucoup moins détesté que prévu.
A little more interesting than some of the other Brit synth-pop we’ve heard. But a lot of sameness, too, that keeps me from considering it anything more than average.
I guess if you love keyboard/synthesizer, you'll love the hell out of this album? Meh.
This sounds like the 80's. Doesn't matter that the synth driven music was a brief part of the 80's, this album fits. I swear parts of it are in every movie set or filmed in the early to mid 80's that had a prom scene. These songs were played during the talking parts of the dance. Don't mistake what I'm saying for being bad. It's a decent album if syth and early electronic pop experiments are your thing. I enjoyed Joan of Arc the most. It's a fun album and worth a listen just to hear the early days of synth music.
Not bad, not super compelling either. I enjoyed it but couldn't get super into it. Good instrumentals and decent vocal work. 'Souvenir' was a fun track though!
OMD is one of those bands whose name had previously led me to ignore them. It's such a ridiculous mouthful of a name. Turns out, like many things, once you get past the cover, the contents are pretty good. Nothing incredible - I'm not sure this album needs to be included in this or any other canon - but it's a solid record.
Interesting
Very interesting
Teatralsk poprock, masser af synth, elektronisk
Just a little bit too much pop/ new wave, and not enough experimental for my liking. Still a decent 3 star album.
Initially I was expecting more orchestra or classical and was excited. This was not it, came around to appreciate the album though. It’s alright, cool for how early this came out. I almost wish there were no lyrics at all.
Too abstract for my taste.
Oké album. Joan of Arc is natuurlijk een geweldig nummer. Souvenir en She's Leaving zijn ook niet slecht. De rest is niet echt benoemingswaardig. 2.9
Suprisingly fun little record. I wasn't familiar with this at all. The soundpatterns created were unique and felt lush and creative, which I really enjoy from electronic music, I would've liked to see a more cynical approach perhaps, but overal this was a fun piece of music, laudable for its creative yet infectious grooves. Favorite track: Souvenir. Overall score: 7.4/10
Better than expected
This was good. A little tonal and abstract in places, but I still enjoyed it alright. Probably won't listen again. Three stars.
This was a good album to contemplate my future to, but not something I'd listen to again.
3.5/5
Certainly, both are aspects of life.
I’ve loved OMD’s “If You Leave” since I was a kid, but I’ve never listened to an album of theirs. I’ve always loved those pounding drums on “If You Leave,” and the synthesizers are absolutely to die for. I don’t think I’ve ever even seen Pretty In Pink, which is a damn shame, because I love the eighties. As for other OMD songs, I got to know “Enola Gay” as an adult, and while it’s a good song, it’s no “If You Leave.” I know my brain and heart are going to want to hear thirty minutes of “If You Leave” on this album, but I’ll do my best to push those expectations down so that I can enjoy Architecture and Morality! Well, for my money, Architecture and Morality wasn’t on par with “If You Leave,” but hey, who’s painted the Mona Lisa twice in their life? Even though I wasn’t wowed by this, it had some very good moments, and it was pretty enjoyable to listen to. When this album was at its best, the synthesizers were fantastic. But when it wasn’t at its best moments, Architecture and Morality was a bit boring, and the album as a whole felt pretty uneven. “The New Stone Age” wasn’t what I was expecting in a leadoff track from OMD, but I thought the song did a great job of capturing a feeling of anxiety and dread. The percussive elements gave it a bit of a militaristic feeling, as did the helicopter-esque sounds towards the end, and the main synthesizers were beautifully haunting. “She’s Leaving” was really up my alley. I loved the vocals and lyrics, and they main synthesizer riff burrowed its way fully into my ear. It was easily my favorite song on the album, and a song I’d be quick to listen to again. “Souvenir” was pretty good too, and I enjoyed its softer synthesizer sounds and different vocals. “Sealand” was the lowest point on the album to me. I felt like it plodded along for far too long, and there wasn’t really any payoff at any point in the song. It stinks that the worst part of this album was also the longest. The two “Joan of Arc” songs were good though, which was nice, especially since the first side of the album ended in a dud. After that though, the album felt like it limped along to the finish line. “Georgia” was nice, but it felt kind of strange between the title track and “The Beginning And The End.” All in all, this album was fine. It had some really good moments, but parts of it dragged it down and made the album as a whole a fairly uneven experience for me.
Synth-pop with plenty of ambience. Mainly a mix between more radio-friendly, lyrical synth-pop tracks and more ambient, noise-focused tracks. Given the time of its release, somewhat ahead of its time and could be among those records that ushered in this sort of synth-pop blend into the more mainstream electronic-laden pop music of the 80's. Not my favorite thing of all time, but I recognize its importance.
This is a weird one. Some songs are very 80s pop, which I don't like, but other songs are very early 00s Arcade Fire...which I also don't like. At the same time, this album isn't *awful*. I don't really like it, but I respect its sound, which doesn't really sound like what you expect 80s pop to sound like. I'd maybe give it a 2.5 if I could, but I'm going to give it the benefit of the doubt and bump it to 3 here.
really cool, definitely a good listen
Highlight: Georgia In a nutshell: Kraftwerk 2.0 (and that's a compliment) When compared to other synth-pop acts who released albums after Kraftwerk's The Man-Machine, OMD's Architecture and Morality sounds like the first synthpop album. Synthpop as we know it now. Perhaps more thoughtful synthpop compared to the calculated and danceable synthpop of The Pleasure Principle by Gary Numan. I liked it. Overall: 6/10
Helt solid new wave!
Better than I expected, but not by much. Pleasant enough to listen to but I'm not writing home about any of the songs on here.
I really hate the new wave vocal style but the sounds and melodies had some cool moments here
Decent album. Never heard them before. Stand out song - Extended Souvenir
New Order-y but all downtempo, the party taken out. Not a bad thing to be, missing the gift for hooks that New Order has. Hard not to think about Millennial synth pop at the worst bits. 2.5. music: appreciated. (⌐■_■)
This came off like New Order if New Order wasn’t for guitar guys. That does mean it’s good, but also I would like it more if it were for guitar guys. I imagine this album begets a lot of later music I don’t like at all, but I liked this quite a bit.
Dadcore to the mega
Really just such a mix between dark, The Cure type vibes, then some poppy, Pet Shop Boys stuff, and then a little really minimalist synth ambient something another.. all in 9 tracks? Overall its decent. 6/10
kind of a mixed bag? there were some cool proto-indie pop songs that i really liked- almost in the same vein as the Prefab Sprout album i listened to earlier. there were some cool ambient electronic songs as well. and then there were some songs that were painfully corny 80s pop sounding. i didn't really hear the religious music influences but maybe i need to listen to it again more closely.
A difficult album to rate. The great tracks are genre defining, but the filler is incredibly boring.
Good stuff
A ridiculously 80s record. Some parts John Hughes movie, some parts emo woe is me, some parts tones and moods. But somehow it all sounds the same. Not my bag baby. Still three stars it’s not a bad record.
Meh. Another perfectly average album. I think folks got it right with the initial lukewarm response; subsequent critical acclaim over the years seems unwarranted. Standard fare for synth-pop in my view. Sorry OMD but the only thing I will continue to remember you for is If You Leave (not on this album).
I enjoyed this in the moment, but the problem is, I'm writing this review the day after having listened and I can't remember a damn thing about it. Does that say something about the album or my memory? Probably not a fair rating, but I'll come back to this one again at some point.
I feel like this seems like the precursor to a lot of music made by a multitude of different artists. Some really great rhythms that sounds like a lot of modern music. Winner.
Underwhelming, sounded like two guys playing their Casio keyboards in the early 80’s
Always a fan of new wave and the early UK synth pop movement. Some ups and downs but a great couple of songs too.
Cool
+++
Kan je lekker op de achtergrond opzetten tijdens het leren, maar is niet echt bijzonder ofzo
This was better than expected. Certainly more complex and, at times, gothier than I thought they would be. Unfortunately, a lot of the instrumentation is annoying and dated. It’s okay, but less than great.
At first, this struck me as being pretty much the same as a lot of 80s synth pop. As it went along, though, I found some more interesting layers to it, particularly the sections with no singing. All in all, this was pretty cool.
Overall: 6/10 I enjoyed this more than I expected. The vocals are okay but it's the synths that are a lot of fun. I found the whole album to be pretty relaxing overall and I would recommend it even for just one listen. Fav Song: Georgia Least Fav Song: Sealand
It's kind of alright, but for someone who's not massively into it, it is long. If you like synthy, new-wavey, dreamy pop then knock yourself out I guess.
Mix of synth pop, krautrock, Brian Eno and just overall 80s vibes. There are some really good songs on here and some wild experimental stuff. This is the kind of album I love getting from this project.
Pretty good synth-pop
I didn't listen to them in period, although I was "aware" of the band. This album came as something of a surprise. A pleasant one. "Sealand" is a bit long and self-indulgent. I am really not sure what they were aiming for with that. Otherwise, pretty good. 3/5
It started interesting and quickly became so experimental that it wasn't fun to listen to
Wanted to be surprised and absorbed by this, but wasn’t.
Nawet ujdzie. Turbo brytyjskie. 3/5
Nice
Cool sounding but I found it a tad samey, I will probably return to it one day but I’m fine without it too. 3/5
3.4 Started strong and not what I was expecting. Worth another listen at another date
OMD is highly influential minimalist post-punk electronic pop that was not unenjoyable on first pass and became more interesting subsequently. More vital at a higher volume. Still don't know what they're talking about really. But it's okay, our vocalist is a good singer and contrasts the artificiality of the tracks nicely. Again, this bears repeated listening. A lot of what i thought was derivative at first sounded much more purposeful, experimental and passionate the second time around. Interesting record.
Clearly brings me back to the 1980's. It's good, but I am not sure i actually want to go back.
Ciekawy album, ale okładka i tytuł obiecywały nieco więcej. Odnoszę wrażenie, że przesyt brytyjskim indie rockiem, który wprowadza ta lista, jest zgubny dla odbioru pojedynczych albumów. Fajna, eksperymentalna muzyka, trochę nietypowych dźwięków w drugim planie (w jednym utworze przez chwilę zastanawiałem się dlaczego woda w czajniku gwiżdże, skoro jej nie wstawiałem), ciekawe teksty, zdecydowanie bardziej lirycznie rozbudowane niż w standardowej muzyce rozrywkowej. Brakowało mi jakiegoś porywu, czegoś co mnie wciągnie instrumentalnie i muzycznie, raczej nie trafi na moją stałą listę rotacyjną, a dla mnie to warunek dla czwórki. Stąd trzy. Ale serio przydałaby mi się 10-stopniowa skala, bo byłbym skłonny dać temu 7 wtedy (czyt. 3,5 w obecnej skali, jeśli miałaby połówki).
weird but good?
Solid. Great tunes.
Nothing too exciting but okay as background music. 3 stars or C-.
Moodier than what I wanted today, but vibe-y and fun. And dig the Bauhaus-y album art.
Not too bad.
Surprised by how much I enjoyed this. I still don't love 80s synth music, and this album drags after a few tracks, but this is better than any of the rest I've heard. That said, LCD Soundsystem did it better.
Not the worst by any means but preferred soft cell or depeche mode with this kind of electronic style.
The vocals were not my cup of tea. However, the production, mostly because of it its prominent use of synths, had me engaged throughout.
Some chill vibes, good listen.
Not what I expected. Not bad. Though l little long for what it was.
I remember me and mates, we were long haired rockers at the time, taking the piss out of Andy McClusky in a club in Liverpool as we thought Maid of Orleans was “a bit girlie” Oh well sorry Andy it’s actual a pretty good listen.
Pretty good, but it didn't grab me like I think it should. It made me think of a more electronic sophisti-pop.
was ok
I love electronic music, but this one didn't grab me as much. I definitely hear it's influence in britpop bands from the 90s, so I can appreciate it from that angle. Otherwise, not for me.
Interesting new wave music, given the year of release it must have been quite an influence on later bands
I'm 50. Loved it since 87. By the time I turn ~20 I will probably stop loving it so I have to make the most of it while I still can
LOVED!!!!! Luv the 80s me
Very 80's Brit pop. Tears for Fears/Dexy's vibes for sure. The album progressed nicely and although some of the songs were a bit boring, I liked it overall. 3.6
I find it interesting how many, including the author the I spring this site, choose albums of artists before they hit it big. Why wouldn’t the album that put them on the map be the chosen one? That being said - I did enjoy this album but not as much as later work. It is much more mellow than one would think.
Wasn't a huge fan of this one.
Kaunis kansi ja ihan kaunis levy. Ostin tän joskus kirpparilta. Toivoisin lisää tempoa! 3/5
Varsin kiinnostava ja vaihteleva levy. 3/5