Album Review: Heartbeat Heartbreak by Word Of Mouth
Released in 1984, Heartbeat Heartbreak by Word Of Mouth is a hidden gem in the UK’s electronic music scene. Tagged under the Hi NRG style, this album feels like a neon-lit dance floor trapped in a time capsule. It’s not perfect, but it’s got that raw energy that makes you want to move—or at least nod your head awkwardly in approval. Released on Challenge Records, the album was crafted with some serious talent behind the scenes: A Sojka and de Jongh on production duties, Chris Lucas co-producing, and mastering wizardry from someone named BOPPIN’ BOB (yes, all caps). The sleeve design by Mr Dali & Dicko adds a quirky touch, though I’m still trying to figure out if it’s genius or just weird.
The album kicks off strong with “Heartbeat Symphony,” a track that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. The pulsating synths feel like they’re racing against time itself, while the drum machine lays down a beat so infectious you’ll probably catch yourself humming it hours later. What sticks with me most is how the melody builds—layer upon layer of sound crashing together like waves. You can tell A. Sojka put thought into this one; it’s not just noise for the sake of noise. It’s structured chaos, and honestly, it works.
Then there’s the titular track, “Heartbeat / Heartbreak.” This one hits different. It’s less about the euphoria of dancing and more about emotional tension. The lyrics are simple yet effective, capturing that universal feeling of being torn between love and loss. The Committee’s mix job deserves a shout-out here—they balanced the vocals and instrumentation perfectly. There’s something haunting about the way the high-pitched synth stabs echo throughout the song, almost like a heartbeat skipping a rhythm. It’s dramatic without being over-the-top, which is harder to pull off than it sounds.
One thing worth noting is how unpolished everything feels compared to today’s standards. Back then, electronic music wasn’t about perfection—it was about experimentation. And yeah, maybe some parts of the album haven’t aged gracefully, but isn’t that part of its charm? Listening to Heartbeat Heartbreak feels like stepping into a retro arcade where the graphics are pixelated, but the fun is real.
In the end, what makes this album memorable isn’t just the music—it’s the vibe. It’s the kind of record that reminds you how far electronic music has come while making you appreciate where it started. Plus, who wouldn’t want to brag about owning something mastered by someone called BOPPIN’ BOB? If you’re into Hi NRG or just looking for something nostalgic to spin, give this one a shot. Just don’t blame me if you start craving leg warmers and shoulder pads afterward.
