Album Info
| Artist: | The Human League |
| Album: | Hysteria |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Australia, 21 May 1984 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | I'm Coming Back | |
| A2 | I Love You Too Much | |
| A3 | Rock Me Again And Again And Again And Again And Again And Again (Six Times) | |
| A4 | Louise | |
| A5 | The Lebanon | |
| B1 | Betrayed | |
| B2 | The Sign | |
| B3 | So Hurt | |
| B4 | Life On Your Own | |
| B5 | Don't You Know I Want You |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
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Description
"The Human League - Hysteria" is the fourth studio album by the British synth-pop band The Human League, released in 1984. Coming after the massive success of their 1981 album "Dare," "Hysteria" faced the daunting task of meeting high expectations. The album title itself reflects the intense pressure and emotional turmoil the band experienced during its production. "Hysteria" showcases The Human League's signature electronic sound, blending synthesizers and drum machines with catchy pop melodies and the distinct vocal interplay between lead singer Philip Oakey and backing vocalists Susan Ann Sulley and Joanne Catherall.
The album features a mix of upbeat tracks and ballads, exploring themes of love, desire, and emotional complexity. One of the standout singles, "The Lebanon," marks a departure from the band's typical sound by incorporating guitar riffs alongside synthesizers, addressing political themes in a more direct manner than their previous work. The song's lyrics, combined with a catchy melody, made it one of the album's most memorable tracks.
"Life On Your Own" is another highlight, a melancholic synth-pop ballad that showcases Oakey's deep baritone voice against a backdrop of lush electronic arrangements. The song's introspective lyrics and emotive delivery resonate with the theme of isolation and longing, common in the band's repertoire.
"Hysteria" also includes tracks like "Louise," a beautifully crafted pop song that exemplifies the band's ability to create compelling narratives within their music. The track's smooth production, combined with the emotional depth of the lyrics, highlights The Human League's talent for crafting songs that blend catchy pop sensibilities with a rich emotional palette.
The production of "Hysteria," led by producers Hugh Padgham and Chris Thomas, is polished and sophisticated, capturing the essence of mid-80s synth-pop. The use of cutting-edge technology and innovative production techniques helped to create a sound that was both of its time and distinctly The Human League.
Despite its strengths, "Hysteria" did not replicate the commercial success of "Dare," and received mixed reviews from critics at the time of its release. Some praised the album's experimentation and depth, while others felt it lacked the immediate appeal and cohesiveness of its predecessor.
One potential critique of "Hysteria" is that it lacks a defining hit on the scale of "Don't You Want Me," leading some tracks to feel less impactful. However, the album's exploration of new sonic territory and its thematic depth showcase The Human League's willingness to evolve and take risks.
In conclusion, "The Human League - Hysteria" is an album that captures a band in transition, experimenting with their sound while grappling with the pressures of success. It may not have reached the commercial heights of "Dare," but "Hysteria" remains a significant part of The Human League's discography, offering a glimpse into the band's creative process and their ability to blend pop music with emotional and occasionally political content. For fans of synth-pop and 80s music, "Hysteria" offers a collection of tracks that are both reflective and engaging, showcasing the enduring talent of one of the era's most iconic bands.