What is the best Howard Jones album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Human's Lib" (1984). It's the most representative of what makes Howard Jones worth hearing.

What are the best Howard Jones albums?

The essential Howard Jones albums include "The Best of Howard Jones", "Hide and Seek" (1984), "Human's Lib" (1984), "Like to Get to Know You Well" (1984) and "The 12" Album" (1984).

How many albums does Howard Jones have?

Howard Jones has 42 releases in their discography, including 17 albums and 3 EPs.

Photo: Mikesfox · CC BY-SA 3.0

Howard Jones

Q: Who is Howard Jones for?

If you're into new wave and pop rock, Howard Jones is worth your time. With a rhythmic pulse that balances programmed precision and organic warmth, Jones's music layers shimmering synths over steady grooves, creating an inviting space for introspection and dance alike.

With a rhythmic pulse that balances programmed precision and organic warmth, Jones's music layers shimmering synths over steady grooves, creating an inviting space for introspection and dance alike.

new wave · pop rock · synth-pop

United Kingdom

Read about Howard Jones on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Human's Lib (1984)

Captures Howard Jones's signature blend of synth-pop and new wave, offering a cohesive experience with engaging rhythms and thoughtful lyrics.

The song

“Things Can Only Get Better” from Dream into Action

Immediate hook and uplifting message make it an engaging introduction to Jones’s style and thematic focus.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Celebrate Our Love" — from Revolution of the Heart (2005)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"Rough Day" — from Piano Solos (2003)

accessible entry with immediate emotional hook
3

"Stir It Up (Sharooz remix)" — from Revolution Remixed & Surrounded (2007)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"The Prisoner" — from Cross That Line (1989)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Lift Me Up" — from In the Running (1992)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Conditioning" — from Human's Lib (1984)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Howard Jones

Howard Jones occupies a significant space in the pop landscape, where his melodies and synthesizer-driven sounds have shaped the emotional contours of new wave music.

His ability to weave introspective themes into accessible hooks has resonated with listeners, fostering a sense of connection during a time when personal expression was increasingly valued in popular music. Jones's approach centers on the interplay of technology and human emotion, skillfully blending electronic instrumentation with heartfelt lyricism. He often uses synthesizers not just as tools for sound but as extensions of his own voice, creating environments that invite exploration and engagement. This marriage of man and machine allows for an innovative sonic palette that feels both intimate and expansive, forging a path for artists who seek to merge emotional authenticity with technological prowess. Lyrically, Jones often navigates themes of self-discovery, love, and the quest for understanding in a rapidly changing world. His writing strikes a balance between sincerity and reflection, employing a conversational tone that beckons listeners to engage with their own experiences. The storytelling elements in his songs evoke vivid imagery while remaining open to interpretation, allowing personal connections to flourish amidst universal truths.

17 studio albums· 42 total releases· 4 decades· United Kingdom