Most people would remember Spandau's "True" as being definitive of the group, but I appreciate their ambition, as contained in Through the Barricades. Right from the opening introduction one gets the sense that the group is out to accomplish something different other than simply making a pop album. I won't want to single out any song for praise; not because they are lousy, but rather because they ought to be listened as a single "entity" with a thematic concern. Politically tinged perhaps, but the 80s could always spring such surprises.

What a shame that this fantastic album never got the attention it deserved -- especially in the U.S. The album is especially noteworthy for the longer (and much better) versions of How Many Lies and Through the Barricades, both of which were issued in their single formats on The Best of Spandau Ballet. The ballad Swept is easily as gorgeous as anything from the True album, and Snakes and Lovers is absolutely infectious.

This was a great comeback cd for the guys although it never really caught on in North America. Which is sad because the songs were ahead of its time.