80's Calling! with The Human League, The Farm, and more

The Human League, formed in Sheffield, England in 1977, became synth-pop pioneers with hits like "Don't You Want Me" and "Human." Known for infectious melodies and electronic rhythms, they collaborated with producers like Giorgio Moroder and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Their influential style left a lasting imprint on synth-pop and electronic music.

Liverpool band The Farm, championed by DJ John Peel, are known for hits like "Groovy Train" and "All Together Now." They've collaborated with Suggs and toured with The Housemartins and Big Audio Dynamite. Their album "Spartacus" debuted at No. 1 in 1991.

Level 42, a British band formed in 1979, is known for jazz-funk fusion and later sophisti-pop and dance-rock. Key hits include "Something About You" and "Lessons in Love." Mark King’s bass technique and Wally Badarou's synth defined their style. Their peak album, World Machine, led them to international success. The band has had lineup changes, with King as the constant, and collaborated with guitarist Alan Holdsworth. They’re celebrated for dynamic live tours and a 30th-anniversary box set, Living It Up.

Scottish duo Hue & Cry, from Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, rose in the late '80s with blue-eyed soul hits like "Labour of Love." Their albums Remote and Bitter Suite were chart-toppers. They experimented with jazz and collaborated with Richard Niles. Lost a Popstars contest to Shakin' Stevens, but supported Jamie Cullum and Al Green. Albums like Hot Wire and Pocketful of Stones reflect evolving sounds and Sinatra's influence.