Released in October 1990, Behaviour is the fourth studio album by British synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys. Often regarded as their most introspective and mature work, the album marked a shift from the high-energy dance-pop of their earlier records to a more subdued, melodic, and reflective sound.
Produced in collaboration with Harold Faltermeyer, Behaviour is characterized by warm analog synthesizers and lush orchestration, which complement the melancholic and thoughtful lyrical themes. Tracks like “Being Boring,” a nostalgic meditation on youth and loss, and “This Must Be the Place I Waited Years to Leave,” a tale of regret and disillusionment, exemplify the album’s emotional depth. Despite its more restrained tone, the record still features infectious moments of pop brilliance, such as “So Hard” and “Jealousy.”
Critically acclaimed for its sophisticated songwriting and emotional resonance, Behaviour has grown in stature over the years and is often cited by fans and critics alike as one of Pet Shop Boys’ finest and most enduring works.