Released in 1985, Baltimora’s Living In The Background is a hallmark of mid-80s dance-pop, drenched in the bright synthesiser-driven sound that dominated the era. With infectious beats and enigmatic energy, this debut captures a fleeting but impactful moment in music history and is one record that deserves more recognition than it often receives.

What isn’t as impactful as the music, however, is the chosen album artwork. While three different versions have been made available, throughout the years, the most appealing one is the original Italian edition with its superhero artwork. Unfortunately, the Australian streaming edition is perhaps the worst version and it honestly makes me wonder what record company executives were thinking when releasing different album covers for different regions as they’re seldom more appealing than the original artwork.

Thankfully, the music surpasses the dorky album cover. While not presented as an Apple Digital Master, the CD-quality Lossless Apple Music stream is thoroughly pleasing with an enveloping dance-pop soundstage that will see you on the dance floor, boogieing along from the very first note to the last. Even sitting back and listening intently, you get the sense that this record was well recorded, mixed, and mastered for the stream isn’t lacking in any aspect; it simply sounds, and feels, right.

Tarzan Boy is a bona fide 80s anthem. The song’s iconic “ooh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh” refrain is instantly recognisable and is anchored by a spacious and energetic melody and pulsating beat. Tarzan Boy is, subsequently, one of the greatest songs of the 80s, but a top-tier album isn’t just a result of a single song, for the rest of the tunes, on this release, are equally compelling.

Pull The Wires shifts gears considerably as it blends a somewhat melancholic tune with an ethereal sonic presentation. Despite the sharp contrast from the vibrant energy presented with Tarzan Boy, Pull The Wires not only flows perfectly but it’s a magnificent song that showcases just how complex the pop framework of the era was.

Living In The Background is an ideal title track and is a masterclass in 80s production. The extended intro builds anticipation with layered synths and a funky bassline before the charismatic vocals take centre stage against the song’s danceable groove. While not as bold as some of the other dance-floor numbers, Living In The Background is a multi-layered piece of musical art that gets better the more often you listen to it.

Woody Boogie with its quirky rhythms and cartoonish vocal interjections bring a playful energy to the album. Add to that the track’s infectious tempo and you’ve got a dance-pop masterpiece that would set any dance floor alight.

Chinese Restaurant blends the eclectic with a vivid audio soundscape that results in an abstract musical experience that is both engaging and enigmatic. It’s another of the album's songs that becomes more rewarding the more frequently you listen to the record.

Running For Your Love closes the album on a high note with a spirited track that blends soaring melodies with a driving rhythm. The sense of urgency heard, throughout the song, will leave you energised and eager to revisit the album as once you get the Living In The Background party started, it is hard to switch gears; so enjoy!

Ultimately, Living In The Background is a vibrant snapshot of 1980s pop culture and for those of us who lived through the era, the nostalgia is strong with this release. That said, the album isn’t dated to the era and sounds just as fresh today as when it was initially released. Whether you’re an 80s aficionado or a casual listener, Living In The Background is an album worthy of your time.