Is The 12" Album a good place to start with Howard Jones?

Yes, The 12" Album is recommended as a starting point for new Howard Jones listeners. Synth-driven melodies intertwine with catchy hooks, creating an upbeat sound that defined the 1980s pop landscape. Released in January 1984, The 12" Album marked Howard Jones' transition into a prominent figure in the synth-pop scene following his debut album, Human's Lib. This collection capitalized on the success of earlier hits, showcasing Jones' knack for crafting infectious dance tracks while solidifying his position in the new wave movement.

Who is The 12" Album for?

The 12" Album works well if you're into engaging 80s nostalgia, bright synth melodies for dancing and wave-like pacing with peaks.

How many songs are on The 12" Album?

The 12" Album has 6 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

The 12" Album

Howard Jones · 1984

37 min · 6 tracks · new wave

Synth-driven melodies intertwine with catchy hooks, creating an upbeat sound that defined the 1980s pop landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Always Asking Questions Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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What Is Love? (extended mix) — This track exemplifies Jones' ability to blend thought-provoking lyrics with an infectious synth-pop sound, making it one of his signature hits.
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New Song (new version) — Reimagined for this release, this track captures the essence of optimism and self-discovery that resonated with listeners during its time.
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Like to Get to Know You Well (international mix) — With its upbeat tempo and relatable themes of connection, this track showcases Jones’ signature style and broad appeal across international markets.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases catchy synth-pop hits but lacks depth for long-term engagement.

What we noticed

The album features extended mixes of popular singles, with each track averaging over five minutes in length.
Synthesizers dominate the arrangements, creating a bright and polished sound that is characteristic of 1980s pop.
The sequencing places the most recognizable hits in the middle, maintaining energy before and after with lesser-known tracks.

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: 6/10
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

engaging 80s nostalgia
bright synth melodies for dancing
wave-like pacing with peaks
sing-along anthems in order

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
dislike upbeat, playful vibes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked Howard Jones' rise in the synth-pop scene after his debut.
Themes: synth-pop optimism· 1980s dance culture· self-discovery anthems
Career context: Released in January 1984, The 12" Album marked Howard Jones' transition into a prominent figure in the synth-pop scene following his debut album, Human's Lib. This collection capitalized on the success of earlier hits, showcasing Jones' knack for crafting infectious dance tracks while solidifying his position in the new wave movement.
Stylistic neighbors: Depeche Mode· Erasure· Pet Shop Boys