ABC More Than an Elementary Cog of '80s Music Machine

I'm sure there are more than a few music fans who might suggest that the only memorable thing about British synth pop band ABC is that their records/tapes/CDs could be found very near the beginning of the pop/rock section at your local music store. Notice that I use the past sense there because, seriously, does anyone really go to stores for music anymore now that chains charging up to $20 a pop for an album have all but replaced the independent, locally owned retail experience of old?

Anyway, I suppose I digress. I had intended to lament the relative obscurity of an overlooked '80s band instead of ranting like the old codger I am, so back to that. The wide musical interests and appeal of this consistent group effectively represent the capability of '80s music to endure, as ABC's blend of retro soul, funk and elegant electronic pop maintained the vital threads of early rock and roll within its modern textures. Leader Martin Fry still shines vocally a quarter century after making hits out of solid songs like "The Look of Love" and "Be Near Me," but the best thing about the band's catalogue is that it proves quite clearly that synth pop, new wave and New Romantic stylings don't have to be as stodgily one-dimensional as those genre reputations sometimes suggest. Despite its elementary-sounding name, ABC displays a keen ear for more than just the '80s basics.

• Profile of ABC
• Top 5 ABC Songs of the '80s
• Compare prices on ABC CDs here.