Is Viva a good place to start with Bananarama?

Yes, Viva is recommended as a starting point for new Bananarama listeners. A vibrant blend of dance-pop and new wave, infused with catchy melodies and energetic rhythms that invite movement. Released in 2009, Viva marked Bananarama's first studio album in over a decade since their 1993 album, Please Yourself. This release came during a period where the duo sought to revive their presence in the music scene, following a series of changes in both their lineup and style over the years.

Viva works well if you're into steady tempo for dancing, playful energy for gatherings and catchy melodies for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Viva?

Viva has 11 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Viva

Bananarama · 2009

43 min · 11 tracks · new wave

A vibrant blend of dance-pop and new wave, infused with catchy melodies and energetic rhythms that invite movement.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Love Comes Start here — The lead single captures the essence of the album with its infectious hook and upbeat production, reflecting Bananarama's classic dance-pop roots while embracing modern sensibilities.
→
Rapture — This track stands out for its evocative lyrics and rhythmic groove, embodying the emotional depth that complements the album's energetic vibe.
→
Seventeen — With its playful theme and catchy chorus, Seventeen showcases Bananarama's knack for blending youthful exuberance with sophisticated pop craftsmanship.

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 showcases a blend of catchy melodies and danceable rhythms, appealing to both new listeners and fans.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a consistent upbeat tempo, with danceable rhythms that encourage movement.

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 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 tempo for dancing
playful energy for gatherings
catchy melodies for sing-alongs
uplifting vibe for celebrations

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective music
seek complex, lengthy compositions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Viva revitalized Bananarama's presence after a long hiatus, showcasing their evolution.
Themes: nostalgic reinvention· dance floor celebration· modern love anthems
Career context: Released in 2009, Viva marked Bananarama's first studio album in over a decade since their 1993 album, Please Yourself. This release came during a period where the duo sought to revive their presence in the music scene, following a series of changes in both their lineup and style over the years.
Stylistic neighbors: Dead or Alive· Culture Club· Kylie Minogue