What does Once More sound like?

A lush blend of blue-eyed soul and new wave that captures the emotional intensity of a bygone era. Rooted in new wave and blue-eyed soul. Start with "Once More".

Is Once More a good place to start with Spandau Ballet?

Yes, Once More is recommended as a starting point for new Spandau Ballet listeners. A lush blend of blue-eyed soul and new wave that captures the emotional intensity of a bygone era. Released in 1989, 'Once More' marked Spandau Ballet's reunion after a hiatus, featuring re-recorded versions of their classic hits. This album came during a time when the band was attempting to re-establish their presence in the music scene after disbanding in 1990. Their previous work, especially the 1983 album 'True', had solidified their place in pop history, making this return both nostalgic and strategically significant.

Who is Once More for?

Once More works well if you're into nostalgic reflections on past loves, steady mid-tempo for easy listening and melodic hooks that linger.

How many songs are on Once More?

Once More has 13 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Once More

Spandau Ballet · 1970

55 min · 13 tracks · new wave

A lush blend of blue-eyed soul and new wave that captures the emotional intensity of a bygone era.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Once More Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Gold — This track stands out as one of Spandau Ballet's most recognized hits, showcasing their signature sound with its anthemic chorus and polished production that defined the band's style.
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True — As perhaps their most iconic song, 'True' encapsulates the band's romantic themes and smooth melodies, serving as a defining moment in their career.
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Chant No. 1 — 'Chant No. 1' reflects the band's new wave influences with its rhythmic drive and catchy hooks, illustrating their evolution from early pop to a more sophisticated sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album successfully revisits classic hits with fresh arrangements but lacks significant new material.

What we noticed

The album features re-recorded versions of classic hits, with updated arrangements that incorporate lush instrumentation and vocal harmonies.
Tracks are sequenced to alternate between upbeat anthems and slower ballads, maintaining a consistent emotional tone throughout.
Several songs include extended instrumental sections that showcase the band's musicianship, particularly in the use of synthesizers and brass.

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

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

nostalgic reflections on past loves
steady mid-tempo for easy listening
melodic hooks that linger
for evening unwind

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy excitement
prefering experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked the band's reunion and showcased their enduring appeal with commercial success.
Themes: New Romantic beginnings· nostalgic melodies· romantic aspirations
Career context: Released in 1989, 'Once More' marked Spandau Ballet's reunion after a hiatus, featuring re-recorded versions of their classic hits. This album came during a time when the band was attempting to re-establish their presence in the music scene after disbanding in 1990. Their previous work, especially the 1983 album 'True', had solidified their place in pop history, making this return both nostalgic and strategically significant.
Stylistic neighbors: Duran Duran· ABC· Culture Club