Is In the Running a good place to start with Howard Jones?

Yes, In the Running is recommended as a starting point for new Howard Jones listeners. Synth-driven melodies interlace with heartfelt lyrics, creating a lush soundscape that captures the essence of early '90s pop rock. Released in 1992, In the Running marked Howard Jones' fifth studio album during a period of artistic transition following the commercial peak of his earlier works like Human's Lib and Dream Into Action. At this point, Jones was exploring deeper lyrical themes and evolving his synth-pop sound to fit the changing music landscape of the early '90s.

Who is In the Running for?

In the Running works well if you're into reflective emotional exploration, long, immersive listening sessions and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on In the Running?

In the Running has 10 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

In the Running

Howard Jones · 1992

51 min · 10 tracks · new wave

Synth-driven melodies interlace with heartfelt lyrics, creating a lush soundscape that captures the essence of early '90s pop rock.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Lift Me Up Start here — This opening track encapsulates the album's uplifting message and showcases Jones' signature blend of catchy hooks and emotional depth.
→
The Voices Are Back — With its reflective lyrics and evocative melody, this track highlights Jones' introspective songwriting, making it a standout moment on the album.
→
Gun Turned on the World — This track addresses social issues through a compelling narrative, showcasing Jones' ability to merge pop sensibilities with thought-provoking commentary.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

43 /100

Lowland

Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album blends catchy synth melodies with heartfelt lyrics but lacks standout moments that elevate it significantly.

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 tempos.
Several songs incorporate layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
The use of synthesizers is prominent throughout, with melodic hooks that are often repeated, giving a sense of familiarity across tracks.

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: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

reflective emotional exploration
long, immersive listening sessions
gradual builds and payoffs
thoughtful late-night vibes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Represents a transitional phase, not widely recognized but solid in its sound.
Themes: early '90s optimism· social commentary· personal reflection
Career context: Released in 1992, In the Running marked Howard Jones' fifth studio album during a period of artistic transition following the commercial peak of his earlier works like Human's Lib and Dream Into Action. At this point, Jones was exploring deeper lyrical themes and evolving his synth-pop sound to fit the changing music landscape of the early '90s.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· Erasure· Pet Shop Boys