In our previous Spindle Jam, we featured the darkness that is post-punk music. For this season, we’re tackling the usually more upbeat new wave and synth-pop. The reason for having these two genres together is because they’re close siblings. Particularly in the latter part of new wave’s peak years, a fusion of the two wasn’t uncommon.

If you check out our Vinyl Essentials wall right at this moment, you’ll see featured records from the late 70s to the 80s. As the days progress, we’ll be introducing some modern new wave/synth-pop to show the progression of the genre through the years. This is especially important now, with bands and artists like Paramore, the 1975, and Taylor Swift taking cues from the likes of Depeche Mode and the Cure.

To better understand, check out our new wave/synth-pop playlist here.

Without further ado, here are some of the records every good collection should have.

The Cars – The Cars

A debut record with a lot of charm. Employing the band’s love for fresh concepts in technology, this new wave record features the use of lots of equipment, going along with the ironic, self-conscious lyrics of frontperson Ric Ocasek.

Talking Heads – Talking Heads: 77

The release that went on to inspire a revolutionary crossover between art rock and punk rock. Contains the hit single, “Psycho Killer.”

ABC – The Lexicon of Love

Ever get that feeling you’re just not cut for love? No matter how many times you try, you can’t seem to make your relationships work. If so, the first step to healing is this album. It’s one of the best new wave records you could own.

Culture Club – Colour by Numbers

A 1983 release that leans heavily toward the R&B side of new wave. Perfect for wallowing in heartache. Includes “Karma Chameleon”!

Blondie – Parallel Lines

How the band merged punk with pop on this record influenced the future of the music industry!

Adam and the Ants – Kings of the Wild Frontier

An important new wave album released in 1980 that brought the Burundi beat to the mainstream. Coming out of the goth punk scene, this was the result of Adam Ant’s reinvention, fusing art with camp, complete with his signature military jacket and war paint.

Duran Duran – Rio

With hits like “Hungry Like the Wolf” and “Rio,” you can’t not let this be part of your vinyl collection.

The B-52’s – The B-52’s

A brilliant, at times silly, new wave party record that deserves your attention. Even John Lennon said he liked this album.

New Order – Technique

New Order was more of a singles band—that’s how they released their hits back in the day. That doesn’t mean their albums aren’t to die for. This record, Technique, is one of their best releases. You have to check out songs like “All the Way” and “Love Less.”

Elvis Costello – My Aim is True

A 1977 debut so important it’s garnered positions in several charts. In 2007, this was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Everything here is available in our stores and the website. For more of this, drop by one of the branches and check out our Vinyl Essentials wall.

Words by Kurvine Chua
Visit the stores to see our Vinyl Essentials - New Wave/Synth-Pop Wall
Satchmi, 4F Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall
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