I don't quite like how their music sound with its very clean sheen. It's a similar issue I had with Gratuitous Sax And Senseless Violins where I like the songwriting without liking how the album sounds (out of context that's a HEx A). PArt of the reason why No. 1 in heaven was such an accessible synth pop album as it had the spirit of rock and roll and somewhat aggressive atmosphere and a transitional album of the genre.
Most of the time I don't like the production/instrumentation and arrangement but the songwriting and vocal performance elevate the songs. SO really the ratings are really just based on which song seems like the most memorable melodically. I don't think I have a complex answer to which PSP album is better than another other than which album is the most consistent in producing vocal hooks
Thanks for the summary, it's nice to know there is a lot to look forward to
Pet Shop Boys - Discovery (Live in Rio December 1994) – Hex 8
Pet Shop Boys – Alternative – Hex 9
Pet Shop Boys – Bilingual: Further Listening 1995-1997 – Hex 9
Pet Shop Boys – Bilingual Remixed
Pet Shop Boys – Nightlife: Further Listening 1996-2000 - Hex 9 (oh boy thanks for the pre-warning of "New York City Boy" which was pretty shocking)
Responses