SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: BANANARAMA – TRUE CONFESSIONS (40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

BANANARAMA
TRUE CONFESSIONS (40th ANNIVERSARY EDITION)
LONDON RECORDS

Has it really been 40 years since Bananarama finally made it in North America with their third album, True Confessions? It is hard to believe. Listening to it in 2026, the music is pure 1980s, but those of us of a certain vintage feel like 1986 was just yesterday. It wasn’t. It was 40 years ago. True Confessions was Bananarama’s most successful album in the U.S. and featured their biggest hit single, their cover of “Venus” (originally released in 1968 by Shocking Blue). That song also marked their first time working with the 1980s hit machine producers Stock Aitken Waterman (Dead or Alive and Rick Astley), otherwise known as The Hit Factory. Those three would produce the next Bananarama album, which would be part of the reason Siobhan Fahey left the band.

But in 1986, everyone was playing nice. With True Confessions, they returned to form, tight vocals, some harmonies, very melodic and danceable pop music and lots and lots of fun. Even though two sets of producers worked on the album, it holds together remarkably well and is very cohesive and trademark Bananarama. “Dance With A Stranger,” for example, although somewhat sentimental, is so full of hooks the story and meaning of the song get lost in the pop music.

Of course, “Venus” was the big one, which added a new dimension to Bananarama. The screams were new and exciting resulting in an energy not heard by the trio on their previous albums or singles. They seemed to cut loose and sound like they are having the time of their lives. The 2026 remix by Richard X is added to the package and the song is even more danceable if that was ever possible.

The album has been remastered, and it sounds better than ever. The new version comes in many different configurations and fans/collectors will have fun trying to collect it all. The highlights are the original 12-inch mixes which are wonderful extensions of the original songs. But as it is True Confessions was a bridge for the band. Their decision to move into the more dance material by Stock Aitken Waterman (who would write their entire next album) did change their sound, and so True Confessions is really the last classic sounding Bananarama album. The album is full of life, fantastic vocals, catchy songs and everything that makes great pop records great. The bonus material is enjoyable and makes it even more of a time capsule. For those who remember the 1980s clubs and dance venues, this will bring back many memories.

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