Is Cross That Line a good place to start with Howard Jones?

Yes, Cross That Line is recommended as a starting point for new Howard Jones listeners. Synth-driven melodies intertwine with reflective lyrics, creating a vibrant soundscape that captures the essence of late '80s pop-rock. Cross That Line was Howard Jones' fourth studio album, released after his commercial peak in the mid-'80s. Following the success of his previous albums like Dream Into Action, this record marked a transition as he explored deeper themes while maintaining his signature synth-pop sound.

Who is Cross That Line for?

Cross That Line works well if you're into introspective late-night reflections, gradual builds and payoffs and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on Cross That Line?

Cross That Line has 10 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Cross That Line

Howard Jones · 1989

48 min · 10 tracks · new wave

Synth-driven melodies intertwine with reflective lyrics, creating a vibrant soundscape that captures the essence of late '80s pop-rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Prisoner Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Everlasting Love — This track stands out for its infectious melody and emotional resonance, showcasing Jones' ability to blend catchy hooks with heartfelt lyrics about enduring love.
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Cross That Line — The title track embodies the album's exploration of personal boundaries and self-discovery, featuring a compelling arrangement that highlights Jones' distinctive vocal delivery.
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Guardians of the Breath — This track delves into themes of spirituality and existence, standing out for its contemplative lyrics and expansive soundscapes that push the boundaries of mainstream pop.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends upbeat synth-pop with reflective themes, showcasing solid craftsmanship but lacking strong cohesion.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with driving synth lines, while the second half shifts to more introspective and slower-paced songs.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'Everlasting Love' and 'Guardians of the Breath'.
The use of varied instrumentation, including strings and brass alongside synthesizers, adds depth to the arrangements throughout the record.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

introspective late-night reflections
gradual builds and payoffs
layered, dense sonic textures
long, immersive listening sessions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified Jones' presence with hit singles after his commercial peak.
Themes: personal boundaries· spiritual exploration· late '80s introspection
Career context: Cross That Line was Howard Jones' fourth studio album, released after his commercial peak in the mid-'80s. Following the success of his previous albums like Dream Into Action, this record marked a transition as he explored deeper themes while maintaining his signature synth-pop sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· Erasure· Pet Shop Boys