Is Actually a good place to start with Pet Shop Boys?

Yes, Actually is recommended as a starting point for new Pet Shop Boys listeners. A dazzling fusion of synth-pop and dance beats, layered with poignant lyrics and lush production that captures the essence of late '80s nightlife. Released on September 21, 1987, Actually was the Pet Shop Boys' second studio album, following their successful debut, Please. At this point in their career, they had already established themselves as a leading force in the synth-pop genre, with a distinctive sound that blended catchy melodies and introspective themes.

Actually works well if you're into introspective late-night reflections, layered emotional storytelling and steady rhythmic exploration.

How many songs are on Actually?

Actually has 10 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Actually

Pet Shop Boys · 1987

47 min · 10 tracks · house music

A dazzling fusion of synth-pop and dance beats, layered with poignant lyrics and lush production that captures the essence of late '80s nightlife.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It's a Sin Start here — This track stands out for its bold orchestration and confessional lyrics, addressing themes of guilt and desire while marrying pop sensibility with dramatic flair.
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What Have I Done to Deserve This? — Featuring Dusty Springfield, this duet combines a catchy melody with poignant storytelling about heartache and unfulfilled expectations, showcasing the duo's knack for collaboration.
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Heart — With its infectious rhythm and clever wordplay, this song encapsulates the emotional turmoil of love while maintaining an upbeat tempo that invites listeners to dance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Actually blends poignant lyrics with vibrant synth-pop production, reflecting the era's nightlife culture.

What we noticed

The album opens with a mid-tempo track that sets a consistent pace, followed by a series of upbeat songs that maintain energy.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies and synth arrangements, creating a rich soundscape characteristic of the late '80s.
The lyrics often explore themes of love and regret, with contrasting upbeat melodies that create an interesting tension.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

introspective late-night reflections
layered emotional storytelling
steady rhythmic exploration
balanced melodic journeys

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Pet Shop Boys' reputation with hit singles and chart success.
Themes: suburban guilt· neon-lit introspection· 1980s queer identity
Career context: Released on September 21, 1987, Actually was the Pet Shop Boys' second studio album, following their successful debut, Please. At this point in their career, they had already established themselves as a leading force in the synth-pop genre, with a distinctive sound that blended catchy melodies and introspective themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Erasure· New Order· Depeche Mode