Full performer name: Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark. Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark: Paul Humphreys (vocals, keyboards, percussion, electronic percussion, programming); Andy McCluskey (vocals, keyboards, bass, electronic percussion, programming). Additional personnel: Dave Fairbairn (guitar); Martin Cooper (saxophone); Malcolm Holmes (percussion). Includes liner notes by Paul Browne. This 1980 debut by the duo of Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys is an important milestone in the history of synth-pop. Prior to ORCHESTRAL MANOEUVRES IN THE DARK, synthesizer-based pop was either austere and/or deliberately unpleasant such as Kraftwerk or Throbbing Gristle, or novelty music the likes of M's "Pop Muzik." This eponymous set was among the first by an almost entirely synthesizer-based band to focus on the creation of catchy, melodic pop songs. The tunes and lyrics are substantial, with the lovely "Julia's Song," and the semi-hit "Electricity," among the standouts. Other songs, like "The Messerschmitt Twins"--an early contender for the band name--and "Pretending To See the Future," are more atmospheric, but never formless. Although later OMD albums were more assured and technically complex, this is one of their best.

• RSD Date: n/a
• Format: Vinyl
• Released: 11/09/2018