Icehouse – Man Of Colours

Icehouse – Man Of Colours

Released in September 1987, Man Of Colours is the fifth studio album by Australian new wave and synth-pop group Icehouse, and arguably the most successful and internationally recognised release of their career. Combining atmospheric synthesizers, polished pop-rock arrangements, memorable melodies and Iva Davies' distinctive vocal delivery, the album captures the sophisticated production and expansive sound of late-1980s pop at its best.

Originally formed in Sydney in 1977 as Flowers, the band adopted the name Icehouse internationally following the release of their debut album in 1980. Led by singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Iva Davies, Icehouse developed a distinctive musical identity that brought together new wave, electronic pop, art rock and melodic songwriting. Their music was characterised by carefully layered arrangements, atmospheric keyboards and a strong visual and conceptual sensibility.

Produced by David Lord, Man Of Colours was recorded between Sydney and England, with sessions taking place at EMI Studios 301 and Trash Studios in Sydney, as well as Crescent Studios in Bath. The album represents a particularly accomplished meeting of electronic textures and accessible songwriting, balancing the widescreen production of the period with strong instrumental performances and a consistent sense of atmosphere.

The record opens with 'Crazy', a driving and instantly memorable pop-rock track that helped establish the album's international appeal. 'Electric Blue', co-written by Davies and John Oates of Hall & Oates, became one of Icehouse's biggest international hits, combining shimmering synthesizers, a memorable chorus and an unmistakable late-1980s sound. 'My Obsession' and the atmospheric title track further demonstrate the band's ability to balance polished pop songwriting with more introspective musical arrangements.

Elsewhere, 'Heartbreak Kid' brings a sharper pop-rock edge, while 'The Kingdom' explores a darker, more expansive atmosphere. 'Nothing Too Serious' delivers another catchy and rhythmically engaging performance, contrasting with the more reflective character of 'Girl In The Moon'. 'Anybody's War' adds a thoughtful dimension to the album, before 'Sunrise' closes the collection with an evocative melodic finale.

Man Of Colours became a major commercial success, reaching number one in Australia and New Zealand and achieving multi-platinum status in Australia. It also helped establish Icehouse as one of Australia's most successful international pop-rock acts during the 1980s. Its combination of sophisticated synth-pop, melodic new wave and atmospheric rock makes it a particularly strong representation of the era.

An essential album for fans of classic 1980s synth-pop, new wave and melodic pop-rock, Man Of Colours remains a defining release from Icehouse and an excellent example of the ambitious, polished sound that made the decade so distinctive.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Crazy

2. Electric Blue

3. My Obsession

4. Man Of Colours

5. Heartbreak Kid

Side B

1. The Kingdom

2. Nothing Too Serious

3. Girl In The Moon

4. Anybody's War

5. Sunrise