What makes Cheers Then by Bananarama notable?

This album is notable for its contribution to the burgeoning dance-pop genre during the early '80s, helping to solidify Bananarama's identity as a key player in British pop. The title track gained attention on dance charts and laid groundwork for their future commercial success, which would peak with subsequent releases. When 'Cheers Then' was released in November 1982, Bananarama was still establishing their place in the music scene following their debut single. This album came between their self-titled debut and their breakthrough album 'Deep Sea Skiving', showcasing their burgeoning style that blended catchy pop hooks with danceable rhythms.

How many songs are on Cheers Then?

Cheers Then has 2 tracks, running approximately 10 minutes.

Cheers Then

Bananarama · 1982

10 min · 2 tracks · new wave

Dance-pop beats intertwine with playful melodies, encapsulating the vibrant essence of early '80s new wave culture.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cheers Then (extended version) — The title track features an infectious chorus and a vibrant arrangement that exemplifies the playful spirit of the album, making it a quintessential Bananarama song.
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Girl About Town (extended version) — This track showcases Bananarama's signature blend of catchy hooks and synth-driven melodies, highlighting their distinctive sound that defined early '80s pop.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The record captures the essence of early '80s dance-pop but lacks depth in songwriting and innovation.

What we noticed

The extended versions emphasize instrumental sections, allowing for longer dance breaks and transitions.
The production employs synthesizers and drum machines prominently, creating a vibrant sound typical of the new wave genre.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Helped establish Bananarama's identity in the early '80s dance-pop scene.
Themes: London nightlife· catchy choruses
Career context: When 'Cheers Then' was released in November 1982, Bananarama was still establishing their place in the music scene following their debut single. This album came between their self-titled debut and their breakthrough album 'Deep Sea Skiving', showcasing their burgeoning style that blended catchy pop hooks with danceable rhythms.
Stylistic neighbors: Dead or Alive· Culture Club· Kylie Minogue