What makes Standing in the Dark by Platinum Blonde notable?

The album includes the hit single Not in Love, which reached significant chart positions in Canada, helping solidify the band's presence in the pop rock genre. Additionally, Standing in the Dark was well-received by critics for its catchy songwriting and production quality, further influencing the Canadian music landscape of the era. Released in January 1983, Standing in the Dark is Platinum Blonde's second album, following their successful debut, which established them as a prominent band in Canada's new wave scene. At this point, they were building on their initial popularity, showcasing a more refined sound while continuing to explore themes of love and social commentary.

How many songs are on Standing in the Dark?

Standing in the Dark has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Standing in the Dark

Platinum Blonde · 1983

37 min · 10 tracks · pop rock

A vibrant fusion of catchy hooks and polished pop rock melodies that reflect the early '80s Canadian music scene.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Not in Love — This track stands out due to its memorable chorus and relatable lyrics about unrequited feelings, encapsulating the band's signature blend of pop sensibilities and emotional depth.
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Sad Sad Rain — With its melancholic tone and reflective lyrics, this song showcases the band's ability to convey deeper emotions while maintaining their upbeat musical style.
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Standing in the Dark — The title track features an infectious melody and bright instrumentation, exemplifying the energetic pop rock vibe that characterizes much of the album.

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 features solid hooks and production but lacks standout depth or innovation.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm.
Several songs feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the chorus sections.
The album closes with a slower ballad that contrasts sharply with the preceding energetic tracks, providing a reflective end.

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Not in Love

The chorus repeatedly emphasizes a declaration of emotional detachment despite longing, creating a tension between desire and rejection.

This lyrical choice amplifies the central conflict within the song, contrasting an upbeat melody with a poignant exploration of unfulfilled love.

Tracklist

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

1 Doesn't Really Matter 4:05
2 Standing in the Dark 3:19
3 Sad Sad Rain 3:50
4 Take It From Me 4:01
5 Cast a Shadow 3:40
6 Leaders in Danger 4:19
7 Not in Love 4:07
8 Video Disease 3:45
9 All Fall Down 4:15
10 Cinderella Story 1:53

What to play next

Listen next

Alien Shores

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Go back to

Platinum Blonde

1983

Full Platinum Blonde discography Artists like Platinum Blonde

pop rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata