Rocktrospectiva: Pet Shop Boys' Acclaimed Compilation "Discorgraphy: The Complete Singles Collection" Turns 35

 

 

Released on November 4, 1991, "Discography: The Complete Singles Collection" was the first major compilation from the English duo Pet Shop Boys. It contained a total of 18 tracks, including two new singles—"DJ Culture" and "Was It Worth It?"—which were recorded exclusively for the album.

 

Another interesting feature of the record was the cover/mash-up of U2’s "Where the Streets Have No Name" and Frankie Valli’s "Can’t Take My Eyes Off You." The tracks were presented in chronological order and in their 7-inch single versions. Notably, "Was It Worth It?" was omitted here, replaced by "How Can You Expect to Be Taken Seriously?" This decision was likely dictated by the storage capacity of the formats available at the time. It is worth noting that the duo’s releases have always been thoughtfully constructed and artfully presented. 

 

Although their genre has consistently hovered between dance-pop and synth-pop—occasionally incorporating standalone tracks not found on any studio album—these selections serve to showcase the duo’s range, originality, and sophistication, as well as the songwriting prowess of Tennant and Lowe. 

 

Consequently, these 18 tracks comprise one of the most consistent and innovative musical works of that era. Thirty years have passed since this flawless release, yet remarkably little has changed; the tracks have aged exceptionally well, and the music remains as impressive as ever. 

 

The compilation covered the duo's Imperial Phase period from 1984 to 1991—with the inclusion of tracks like "One More Chance" and "Paninaro"—the collection features their most iconic and memorable hits from that early era. It is particularly striking that few bands, especially within these genres, manage to remain so enduring and relevant—a testament, perhaps, to the fact that Lowe and Tennant have consistently produced music that is accessible, captivating, intelligent, melodic, and highly infectious. For those not yet familiar with their style and sound, this compilation serves as an excellent entry point to dive deep into their body of work.  

 

While subsequent compilations were released to update their catalog—all while maintaining their signature style—this particular collection was, at the time, a standout release that left a lasting, positive impression on audiences.

 

Discography: The Complete Singles Collection Track List: 

 

1. West End Girls

2. Love's Come Quickly

3. Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money)

4. Suburbia

5. It's A Sin

6. Wha Have I Done To Deserve This?

7. Rent

8. Always On My Mind

9. Heart 

10. Domino Dancing

11. Left To My Own Devicees

12. It's Alright

13. So Hard

14. Being Boring

15. Where The Streets Have No Name (Can't Take My Eyes Off You)

16. Jealousy

17. DJ Culture

18. Was It Worth It?