Review
"Heartbeat City" by The Cars is a fantastic journey through the world of 80s rock and new wave. Released in 1984, this album really showcases the band's ability to create catchy, synth-infused tunes that stick in your head for days. I've got to say, the production on this record is absolutely top-notch, thanks to the legendary Robert John "Mutt" Lange. It's like he took The Cars' signature sound and cranked it up to eleven!
One of the things I love about this album is how diverse it is. You've got tracks like "Drive," with Benjamin Orr's hauntingly beautiful vocals, and then you've got upbeat, energetic songs like "You Might Think" that just make you want to dance. Both of these songs were huge hits, and it's easy to see why. The album also features "Magic," which became a staple on MTV, and the title track "Heartbeat City," which was released as a single outside of North America.
What really sets "Heartbeat City" apart is how it manages to feel both fresh and familiar at the same time. It's like The Cars took everything that made their debut album great and evolved it for the mid-80s. The result is an album that's both a return to form and a step forward for the band. With six singles and a peak position of number three on the Billboard 200, it's clear that this album struck a chord with listeners. It's definitely one of those records that defines the sound of its era, and I find myself coming back to it again and again. - Ava
