35: Máma Bubo - Skončíš Jako Já (1985)

We continue exploring new countries, with different languages and original ways to write a song. Máma Bubo is a band from Czech Republic (Republic of Czechoslovakia by then), who has explored many eletronic styles. The present song is a minimalist piece of music. Some of you will hate it; some of you will instead love it. I personally find it amanzingly strange, dark and misterious. I feel uneasy with this possessive synth line, the disturbing trumpet noise, the hypnotic male voice, the odd language (what does he say, my God?)... and I definitely enjoy it!

R.O.C.

36: The Other Two - Tasty Fish (1991)

If we talk about the most important bands in the History of electronic music in England, it will clearly come to our minds the name of New Order. Well, The Other Two is precisely a project formed by two former members of the mythic band: Stephen Morris and Gillian Gilbert (although recently they have joined the return of New Order). The sound of The Other Two leaves no doubt about the origins of these musicians, and this brilliant song is a good example.

Civ

37: Beograd - Sanjaš Li U Boji? (1981)

We haven't yet pay a visit to Serbia, which was part of Yugoslavia in 1981. Serbian synthpop trio Beograd only released a single containing the chosen song (which can be translated as Do you dream in color?) and an album in 1983, the year when Beograd finally disbanded. Very nice minimal synth sounds and fair male vocals. As for the lyrics... do they really matter?

 

R.O.C.

38: Alphabeat - Heat Wave (2009)

We stay in Northern Europe, in Denmark, to be precise. There we find Alphabeat, a young band formed in 2007 which we can define as genuine hit-makers. From their first pop songs (like Fascination or 10.000 Nights of Thunder) to their current more electronic style, they have always kept a taste for catchy pop tunes. Nor must we forget the great voice of their female vocalist, Stine Bramsen, who has become increasingly important in the band.

Civ

39: The Actor - Covergirl (1982)

We land back in Europe. The Netherlands, the land of tulips. And of nice synthpop bands. The Actor was a Dutch duo -Marcel Reimer and Sander Horsthuis- who enjoyed a short career: in 1982 their only album was released, entitled Exploded View. It contained, among different minimal synth songs sung in German and English, a sofisticated piece of work: Covergirl. It is not difficult to guess why they precisely choose this track to release a single later on, in 1985, and an updated version in 2005. Enjoy this elegant song.

R.O.C.

40: Pizzicato Five ‎- Tout va bien (1992)

 Let´s go with a modern classic: Pizzicato Five, one of the most important bands from Japan and, with no doubt, part of the origin of twee pop style. Formed in 1985, they really hit the jackpot when in 1990 the vocalist Maki Nomiya joined the group. Their sound is influenced by countless musical styles (American 60´s pop, bossanova, disco, electropop…) and in their prolific career (17 albums in 16 years) they have left a huge and unique pop legacy.

Civ

41: Anggun ‎- Snow On The Sahara (1997)

We keep on exploring different countries from different continents. Indonesia, this time. Born in the capital, Jakarta, and now living in France (she even represented France in the latest Eurovision Contest), singer Anggun Cipta Sasmi started her career with the tender Snow On The Sahara in 1997, hitting the charts. Since then she has released numerous albums and singles, but it's yet difficult to reach the same quality since this delicate song has all the magical ingredients: exotic Asian sounds, easy-listening tune, romantic lyrics and warm female voice. So warm!

 

R.O.C.

42: Kas Product - Never Come Back (1982)

 Despite the title of this song, we come back to France to find this electronic duo formed in 1980. With only four references in their career, their first two albums are considered the best. Short tracks, rage, dirty sounds, acid lyrics, and the charismatic and captivating Mona Soyoc on vocals… Perfect electro punk coming from Nancy.

Civ