Is Ordinary Heroes a good place to start with Howard Jones?

Yes, Ordinary Heroes is recommended as a starting point for new Howard Jones listeners. Uplifting melodies and introspective lyrics blend with vibrant synths, reflecting Howard Jones' signature pop sensibility. By the time of its release in 2009, Howard Jones was revisiting his musical roots after a career that spanned over two decades since his debut album in 1984. 'Ordinary Heroes' marked his return to the independent scene, showcasing his evolution as an artist while drawing on the classic synth-pop sound that initially brought him fame.

Who is Ordinary Heroes for?

Ordinary Heroes works well if you're into steady mid-tempo uplifting flow, introspective moments of resilience and inspiring sing-alongs with friends.

How many songs are on Ordinary Heroes?

Ordinary Heroes has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Ordinary Heroes

Howard Jones · 2009

42 min · 10 tracks · new wave

Uplifting melodies and introspective lyrics blend with vibrant synths, reflecting Howard Jones' signature pop sensibility.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Straight Ahead Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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Ordinary Heroes — The title track encapsulates the album's theme of celebrating everyday individuals who make a difference, underscoring Jones' lyrical depth and melodic craftsmanship.
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Fight On — This anthem stands out for its motivational message and driving rhythm, effectively blending inspirational lyrics with an energetic composition that engages listeners.
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Say It Like You Mean It — With its catchy hook and relatable narrative about honesty in communication, this track highlights Jones' knack for merging pop sensibilities with meaningful storytelling.

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 modern and retro elements effectively but lacks standout compositions throughout.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks with driving synth lines, while the second half shifts to more introspective themes and slower tempos.
Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies that enhance the emotional impact of the lyrics.
The use of retro synth sounds is prominent throughout, creating a nostalgic yet modern feel that aligns with Jones' earlier work.

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

steady mid-tempo uplifting flow
introspective moments of resilience
inspiring sing-alongs with friends
warm melodies for reflective moods

Maybe skip if you

prefer faster-paced experiences
seek experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Reaffirms Howard Jones' influence, blending modern and retro sounds.
Themes: everyday heroism· independent artistry· synth-pop nostalgia
Career context: By the time of its release in 2009, Howard Jones was revisiting his musical roots after a career that spanned over two decades since his debut album in 1984. 'Ordinary Heroes' marked his return to the independent scene, showcasing his evolution as an artist while drawing on the classic synth-pop sound that initially brought him fame.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· Erasure· Pet Shop Boys