Is Human's Lib a good place to start with Howard Jones?

Yes, Human's Lib is recommended as a starting point for new Howard Jones listeners. Synth-driven melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating an optimistic yet thought-provoking soundscape that defined the early 80s new wave movement. When 'Human's Lib' was released in March 1984, Howard Jones was emerging as a significant figure in the synth-pop scene following his debut single 'New Song' in late 1983. This album marked his first full-length release, establishing him as a commercially viable artist and paving the way for subsequent hits.

Who is Human's Lib for?

Human's Lib works well if you're into thoughtful introspective moments, long, immersive listening sessions and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on Human's Lib?

Human's Lib has 11 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Human's Lib

Howard Jones · 1984

49 min · 11 tracks · new wave

Synth-driven melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating an optimistic yet thought-provoking soundscape that defined the early 80s new wave movement.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Conditioning Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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What is Love? — This track features a memorable synth hook and explores complex emotions regarding love and relationships, becoming a defining anthem of the 80s.
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New Song — As Jones's breakout single, it showcases his signature blend of catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics, effectively setting the tone for the rest of the album.
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Hide and Seek — With its innovative use of vocal harmonies and layered synths, this track captures a sense of yearning and introspection that resonates throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album features strong melodies and introspective themes, typical of its era, but lacks some depth in production.

What we noticed

The album opens with a driving synth line in 'Conditioning' that sets a consistent tempo for the first half.
The last three tracks introduce more complex arrangements and slower tempos, creating a reflective conclusion to the album.

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

thoughtful introspective moments
long, immersive listening sessions
layered, dense sonic textures
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album established Howard Jones as a key figure in synth-pop, gaining wide recognition.
Themes: 1980s synth-pop· complex love dynamics· introspective yearning
Career context: When 'Human's Lib' was released in March 1984, Howard Jones was emerging as a significant figure in the synth-pop scene following his debut single 'New Song' in late 1983. This album marked his first full-length release, establishing him as a commercially viable artist and paving the way for subsequent hits.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· Erasure· Pet Shop Boys