The Collection

Performer: Ultravox
Distributor: EMI Music Distribution

Notes: While Ultravox's commercial success was virtually nonexistent in the U.S., their singles were strewn across the British charts throughout the early half of the '80s. Led by Midge Ure's haunting but forceful vocal presence, sometimes reminiscent of U2's Bono, Ultravox used the keyboards to guide their sophisticated and intelligent pop style, resulting in some extremely intricate and provocative material. The Collection gathers the heartiest of Ultravox's repertoire, wisely ignoring any of their late-'70s albums in which John Foxx, the group's founder, inundated his darkened keyboard approach. Effectively desolate but rich in lyrical poetry and clever melodies, songs like "Vienna," "Reap the Wild Wind," and "The Voice" cast Ure's talents as a singer to the forefront, while livelier efforts, like the frantic forward thrust of "Love's Great Adventure," showcase the group's spirited synthesizer work. "Dancing With Tears in My Eyes" is a moody radio-dance track, and the hovering broodiness of "The Hymn" harbors its own brand of gothic charm. The Collection completes the task of covering the most crucial of Ultravox's material. ~ Mike DeGagne

Ultravox rose up out of Britain's late-'70s punk movement, adding a dark, moody touch to the sonic din. But before long Ultravox was incorporating synthesizers and a pronounced art-rock influence. In both their initial incarnation with singer John Foxx (who went on to a highly influential solo career) and their later phase with Midge Ure, they were enormously influential to the burgeoning new romantic and synth-pop scenes. In the 21st century, their synth-based, distinctly European sound would inspire a whole new generation of bands who took their cue from '80s electro-pop and were eventually gathered under the umbrella term "Electroclash."

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