The Jambar
Throughout the history of recorded music, many styles have overtaken the airwaves. Be it one of the thousands of genres and subgenres, The Jambar feels that only one decade has encompassed all major genres in a masterful, unique way — the 1980s.
One band from each major genre, including synth-pop, new wave, hair metal, pop and classic rock will compile the list.
Spot No. 5 goes to Orchestral Manoeuvres In the Dark, commonly known as “OMD,” the original godfathers of synth-pop. OMD was formed in Merseyside, England in 1978. At the core was Andy McCluskey, bassist and lead vocalist, with keyboardist Paul Humphreys.
The duo’s self-titled debut was admired by many, including Bono, Pet Shop Boys and American hard rockers, ZZ Top. Over the years, the band scored several hits in the United States, including “If You Leave” and “So In Love” though they are rarely recognized in the U.S. for its influence on synth and techno.
No. 4 goes to the B-52s, the greatest party band in the world and the unsung heroes of new wave.
With Fred Schneider’s catchy vocals and Ricky Wilson’s innovative guitar playing, the B-52s hit the ground running in 1979 with their self-titled debut.
Admired by John Lennon and the Go-Gos, the B-52s made rock music fun, simple and danceable, while leaving behind a trail of hits including “Roam,” “Love Shack” and their iconic “Rock Lobster.” The band continues to record and tour without Ricky Wilson, who died in 1985.
Rocking in at No. 3 is Hanoi Rocks, Finland’s answer to Motley Crue and one of hair metal’s founding fathers.
Hanoi Rocks first appeared in 1979 in Helsinki, Finland. Fronted by vocalist Michael Monroe, the group was best known for its wild makeup and hairdos that became synonymous with American glam rockers, such as Ratt and Guns N’ Roses.
The group is also known for its relationship with Motley Crue. The band’s lead vocalist, Vince Neil, was responsible for a car accident that killed Hanoi Rocks drummer Nicholas Dingley, known as Razzle. The accident ultimately brought the end of Hanoi Rocks in 1985.
Coming in at No. 2 are the Bangles, the all-girl rock group who took the spotlight from the Go-Gos. Best known for hits such as “Manic Monday” and “Walk Like an Egyptian,” the Bangles first bloomed out of the Los Angeles’ Paisley Underground rock scene in 1984.
Fronted by vocalist Susanna Hoffs and guitarist Vicki Peterson, the Bangles’ debut was critically well-received. While the group scored numerous hits, they were overlooked because of their poppy sound. In the end, the Bangles split after a mildly successful third album.
The No. 1 spot goes to Australia’s own INXS. Led by vocalist Michael Hutchence, INXS’ ever-changing style brought worldwide fame with tragically little recognition.
First tasting success with its third album, “Shabooh Shoobah” INXS went on to release several chart-breaking albums and singles, such as “Need You Tonight” and “Never Tear Us Apart.”
The band has a wide influence, ranging from U2, R.E.M. and the Killers, however, INXS is rarely recognized for its impact on rock music.