Japan

Japan's final LP, a foppish blend of dance-free funk, faux Oriental motifs and arty synth pop, was a big hit across Europe. Tracks such as "Ghosts" showcase David Sylvian's surreal narratives to good effect, but the whole affair is such a 1980s timepiece that it now offers unexpected joys -- kind of like leafing through an old magazine and seeing the ads in a new light.