Real Life
Heartland
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

1983 Original in shrink. The "Heartland" album by Real Life was released in 1983 and marked the Australian band's debut into the international music scene. Known primarily for the hit single "Send Me an Angel," the album capitalized on the burgeoning synthpop and new wave trends of the early 1980s. Produced by Ross Fraser, "Heartland" combined catchy synthesizer melodies with emotive vocals, establishing a sound that resonated in both their home country and overseas. The album’s other single, "Catch Me I’m Falling," also achieved significant chart success, helping solidify Real Life’s place among contemporaries like Tears for Fears and Depeche Mode.

From a historical perspective, "Heartland" emerged during a time of significant technological transition in popular music, as electronic instruments became central to mainstream production. The album's polished, atmospheric sound reflected not just the technical capabilities of the era but also the sense of optimism and escapism prevalent in the early 1980s. Critically, "Heartland" received praise for its songwriting and production, and its enduring popularity, especially of "Send Me an Angel," has kept it relevant through subsequent decades, with the song appearing in films and being covered by various artists. The album remains a touchstone for fans of classic 1980s new wave and synthpop.