Peter Godwin - Images of Heaven (1998)

Properly not a one-hit wonder--but a no-hit nobody in the States--Peter Godwin is nonetheless one of the premier examples of the most popular and enduring form of 1980s synth-pop: a nameless, but instantly recognizable flavor that incorporates Bryan Ferry vocals, harsh, sweeping strings, and overdubbed Linn-drum flourishes. Think of Naked Eyes or Talk Talk during the "It's My Life" phase. Think dapper, not goth; dance worthy, but not beat driven. "Images of Heaven" is the prime cut and the closest to a U.S. hit, but the same year (1982) also yielded "Torch Songs for the Heroine," "Emotional Disguise," and "Baby's in the Mountains"--all eminently hit worthy. Also great and included: "Gemini" and "Criminal World" from Godwin's first band, Metro. There are unreleased songs here as well (most are good). For more Godwin, track down the three Metro albums. --Gavin McNett