How Men Are cover

How Men Are

Heaven 17 · 1984

37 min · 9 tracks · synth-pop

Synth-driven grooves meld with sharp lyrical commentary, reflecting the anxieties of modern masculinity in the 1980s.

Why this album works

'How Men Are' received critical acclaim and established Heaven 17 as a prominent voice in British synth-pop. The album's exploration of themes like masculinity and societal expectations resonated deeply, influencing later artists in the genre and securing its place as a notable entry in the era's music canon.
Best for
steady, consistent listening experience thought-provoking lyrical engagement short, immersive listening sessions
Context
Released in 1984, 'How Men Are' is Heaven 17's third studio album, following their successful sophomore effort 'Pleasure One.' At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the synth-pop genre and navigating the changing musical landscape of the mid-80s, marked by a growing emphasis on social commentary in their lyrics.
Stylistic neighbors
Duran Duran· Pet Shop Boys· Modern Talking

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Five Minutes to Midnight Standout 3:46
  • 2 Sunset Now Standout 3:35
  • 3 This Is Mine 3:54
  • 4 The Fuse 3:05
  • 5 Shame Is on the Rocks Standout 3:59
  • 6 The Skin I’m In 3:29
  • 7 Flamedown 3:00
  • 8 Reputation 3:03
  • 9 And That’s No Lie 10:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata