k, here's my list, in no particular order:
1. "Swing" by Japan.
This song is complex on so many levels. It may not seem like it at first, but after several listens you realize how many synth and guitar parts there are to this song. And surprisingly, it translated well live. Most Japan fans will tell you this is their favourite, and there's no doubt why.
2. "In Vain" by INXS.
Let's just say it's the most played in my iTunes library. Oh, you want more of an explanation? Well, this song was off INXS' self-titled debut. It stuck out like a sore thumb on the album and showed how much potential the band had. Lyrically and musically, it's by far the most mature song on their first album.
3. "Tainted Love" by Max Raabe and Palast Orchester.
This song is just fantastic; I can't explain, really. It is obviously a cover, and it is one of those songs that you need to hear for yourself to fully appreciate the song's awesomeness.
4. "New Religion" by Duran Duran.
The one thing I love about Duran Duran is their bass player. Not only is he easy on the eyes, but he treats his bass like a guitar. Bass solos are an underrated thing, and when done right, they can be fabulous. Duran Duran knows how to do a bass solo properly. At times this song is really two songs layered together, perhaps to match the lyrics?
5. "Ghosts" by Japan.
What a beautiful song.
6. "Even Better Than the Real Thing" by U2.
This is a very important song from that time period, the whole Zoo period of U2. If Achtung Baby hadn't come to fruition, I don't think there would've been another U2 album after Rattle and Hum.
7. "Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Of" by U2.
I really do not like this song, but it's an important song to hear if you want to hear U2's musical differences. Also, if "The Fly" was the sound of them chopping down the Joshua tree, then Stuck was the sound of them blowing up the mirrorball lemon.
8. "Do You Believe in Shame" by Duran Duran.
Proof positive that they are about more than just poppy love songs. This song, as well as the entire album (Big Thing), was a huge departure from anything they'd done in the past. Some may have given them flak over it, but it is really a stellar album. The song was the first to be heard from a trilogy of songs Simon has written about his childhood friend, David Miles. Bonus points if you can guess the other two (Hint: they were released as singles too).
9. "The Tenant" by Japan.
Who says instrumentals are boring? This song conjures up many emotions in the 7:14 it lasts - yes, it's that long. Japan do not know how to make a four-minute radio-friendly song. And I love them for it.
10. "Kiss the Dirt (Falling Down the Mountain)" by INXS.
A beautiful song accompanied by a simplistic video. I couldn't have done it better myself if I'd had the choice of every director in the world and a bottomless budget. The song itself is just phenomenal, and just when you think it's over, it kicks it into overdrive.
11. "The Message" by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five.
This song proves that rap music does have a meaning and isn't done by some untalented hacks. Rap music is a genre like everything and demands to respected.
12. "Who Do You Think You Are" by Duran Duran.
Proving once again that Duran Duran are a relevant band, which doesn't always translate to album sales. Also, we got to hear John's side of the story enough when he left the band, it was nice to hear the band's feelings on the subject. This is Simon's. (For Nick's, see "Buried in the Sand." For Warren's, oh fuck off, no one likes Warren.)
13. "Second Hand News" by Fleetwood Mac.
Never has a break-up been summed up so perfectly in a measly 2:53.
14. "Truth" by New Order.
If you are going to seek out a version, the Peel Sessions is the best. The version on Movement is too fast. This song is so atmospheric: made for rainy nights.
15. "Quiet Life" by Japan.
Wow, it's like "Planet Earth," but it was recorded two years prior and is by a different band. No wonder Duran Duran asked Japan to produce their first album.
