Men At Work – Two Hearts

Men At Work – Two Hearts

A transitional and often overlooked chapter in the catalogue of Australian rock band Men at Work, Two Hearts marks a significant shift in sound, personnel, and production approach following the global success of their earlier releases. Released in 1985, the album moves away from the breezy, reggae-inflected pop-rock of their breakthrough era into a more polished, synth-driven and emotionally reflective direction.

With founding member Colin Hay taking a central creative role, the record blends programmed drums, layered keyboards, and tighter studio arrangements with the band’s trademark melodic sensibility. The result is a more introspective and sometimes melancholic tone, reflecting both internal changes within the group and the evolving mid-80s production landscape.

Tracks like “Man With Two Hearts” and “Everything I Need” highlight Hay’s strong melodic writing and lyrical introspection, while “Hard Luck Story” and “Children on Parade” balance pop accessibility with a more restrained, mature energy. Elsewhere, contributions from Greg Ham bring texture and colour, particularly in tracks such as “Snakes and Ladders” and “Stay at Home,” where saxophone and synth elements add depth to the arrangement.

Guest vocals from artists such as Kate Ceberano and Renée Geyer further broaden the album’s palette, giving certain tracks a distinctive contrast to Hay’s more understated delivery.

Though often overshadowed by the band’s earlier success, Two Hearts stands as an interesting and ambitious reinvention - a snapshot of a band navigating change while still committed to strong songwriting and melodic craft.

Tracklist:

Side A

1. Man With Two Hearts
2. Giving Up
3. Everything I Need
4. Sail To You
5. Children On Parade

Side B

1. Maria
2. Stay At Home
3. Hard Luck Story
4. Snakes And Ladders
5. Still Life