What makes The Collection by Ultravox notable?

The Collection achieved significant acclaim for its representation of the new wave genre, featuring hits like 'Dancing With Tears in My Eyes' which reached number three on the UK Singles Chart. This compilation solidified Ultravox's status as pioneers of synth-driven music, influencing numerous artists within the genre and beyond. Released in late 1984, The Collection serves as a retrospective of Ultravox’s most influential tracks, following their commercial peak with the album Vienna in 1980. At this point, the band was transitioning from their earlier sound to embrace more polished synth-pop elements while still maintaining their art rock roots.

Who is The Collection for?

The Collection works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on The Collection?

The Collection has 14 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

The Collection

Ultravox · 1984

56 min · 14 tracks · new wave

A synthesis of atmospheric synth textures and emotive vocals that encapsulates the essence of 80s new wave.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Vienna — This iconic track showcases Ultravox's ability to blend haunting melodies with rich synthesizer arrangements, exemplifying their signature sound.
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Dancing With Tears in My Eyes — A powerful anthem about loss and longing, this song features poignant lyrics and an unforgettable chorus that resonates deeply.
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Hymn — With its soaring vocals and dramatic instrumentation, 'Hymn' captures the emotional intensity characteristic of Ultravox's best work.
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The Voice — This track highlights the band's innovative use of synthesizers paired with strong lyrical themes, making it a standout example of their creative evolution.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative evening reflections

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in late 1984, The Collection serves as a retrospective of Ultravox’s most influential tracks, following their commercial peak with the album Vienna in 1980. At this point, the band was transitioning from their earlier sound to embrace more polished synth-pop elements while still maintaining their art rock roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Gary Numan· Kraftwerk· Depeche Mode

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Hymn

The bridge introduces a shift in perspective, emphasizing collective experience rather than individual sorrow.

This structural choice broadens the emotional scope of the song, inviting listeners into a shared moment of reflection.

Tracklist

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

1 Dancing With Tears in My Eyes 4:11
2 Hymn 4:27
3 The Thin Wall 4:26
4 The Voice 4:24
5 Vienna 4:38
6 Passing Strangers 3:51
7 Sleepwalk 3:12
8 Reap the Wild Wind 3:42
9 All Stood Still 3:43
10 Visions in Blue 4:15
11 We Came to Dance 4:06
12 One Small Day 4:29
13 Love’s Great Adventure 3:07
14 Lament 4:19

What to play next

Listen next

Lament

1984

Go back to

Monument

1983

Full Ultravox discography Where to start with Ultravox Artists like Ultravox

new wave synth-pop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata