Only After Dark cover

Only After Dark

The Human League · 1980

6 min · 2 tracks · electronic ยท new wave ยท synth-pop

Synth-driven melodies intertwine with haunting vocals, creating an ethereal yet danceable soundscape.

Only After Dark is a single by The Human League, released in 1980. Synth-driven melodies intertwine with haunting vocals, creating an ethereal yet danceable soundscape. The album marks a significant step in The Human League's evolution into a prominent act within the synth-pop genre, showcasing their early experimentation with electronic music that would later influence the new wave movement. While it did not achieve major chart success upon release, it set the stage for their breakthrough with 'Dare' just two years later. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Only After Dark sound like?

Synth-driven melodies intertwine with haunting vocals, creating an ethereal yet danceable soundscape. Rooted in electronic and new wave.

What makes Only After Dark by The Human League notable?

The album marks a significant step in The Human League's evolution into a prominent act within the synth-pop genre, showcasing their early experimentation with electronic music that would later influence the new wave movement. While it did not achieve major chart success upon release, it set the stage for their breakthrough with 'Dare' just two years later. Released on May 1, 1980, 'Only After Dark' was The Human League's first single under the Virgin Records label following their departure from Fast Product. At this point in their career, they were transitioning towards a more commercial synth-pop sound after initially experimenting with post-punk aesthetics.

How many songs are on Only After Dark?

Only After Dark has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Tracklist

2 tracks·6:47

Best experienced from track one โ€” press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Only After Dark Standout 3:45
  • 2 Life Kills Standout 3:02

Release Date

May 1, 1980

Genre

new wave, synth-pop

More albums in new wave

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

6 min 47 sec