Pet Shop Boys Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a Pet Shop Boys band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Pet Shop Boys is an iconic English electronic duo formed in London in 1981, known for their wry cultural commentary and lush electronic arrangements. The group consists of Neil Tennant (vocals, keyboards) and Chris Lowe (keyboards, programming). They have been a pioneering force in genres such as synthpop, dance-pop, and new wave, consistently producing hits that blend buoyant melodies with introspective lyrics. Emerging in the mid-1980s with tracks like "West End Girls" and "Opportunities (Let's Make Lots of Money)," Pet Shop Boys have maintained their relevance and influence across decades, evolving their sound while staying true to their distinctive style.
How to Sound Like Pet Shop Boys
Pet Shop Boys' sound is defined by its clean, melodic synth lines and rhythmic electronic beats, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both danceable and emotionally resonant. The duo often employs a blend of vintage and modern synthesizers to craft their intricate soundscapes. Instruments like the Yamaha DX1 FM Synthesizer and the Roland Juno-106 are integral to achieving their lush, layered textures. The use of digital samplers such as the Akai S900 further adds depth and character to their tracks, allowing for a seamless blend of past and present electronic elements. This sophisticated approach results in a sound that is both timeless and forward-thinking, making Pet Shop Boys a staple in the electronic music landscape.
Discography
Please (2018 Remaster)
1986
Please: Further Listening 1984 - 1986 (2018 Remaster)
1986
Actually (2018 Remaster)
1987
Actually: Further Listening 1987 - 1988 (2018 Remaster)
1987
Introspective (2018 Remaster)
1988
Introspective: Further Listening 1988 - 1989 (2018 Remaster)
1988
Behaviour: Further Listening 1990 - 1991 (2018 Remaster)
1990
Behaviour (2018 Remaster)
1990
Relentless (2023 Remaster)
1993
Very: Further Listening: 1992 - 1994 (2018 Remaster)
1993
Very (2018 Remaster)
1993
Bilingual: Further Listening 1995 - 1997 (2018 Remaster)
1996
Bilingual (2018 Remaster)
1996
Nightlife: Further Listening 1996 - 2000 (2017 Remaster)
1999
Nightlife (2017 Remaster)
1999
Closer to Heaven (Original Cast Recording)
2001
Release (2017 Remaster)
2002
Release: Further Listening 2001 - 2004 (2017 Remaster)
2002
Fundamental: Further Listening 2005 - 2007 (2017 Remaster)
2006
Fundamental (2017 Remaster)
2006
Concrete - In Concert at the Mermaid Theatre for Radio 2 with the BBC Concert Orchestra
2006
Yes: Further Listening 2008 - 2010 (2018 Remaster)
2009
Yes (2018 Remaster)
2009
Pandemonium (Live at the O2 Arena, London - 21 December 2009)
2010
The Most Incredible Thing
2011
Elysium: Further Listening 2011 - 2012 (2017 Remaster)
2012
Elysium (2017 Remaster)
2012
Electric
2013
Super
2016
Inner Sanctum (Live at The Royal Opera House, 2018)
2018
Hotspot
2020
Discovery (Live in Rio 1994, 2021 Remaster)
2021
My Beautiful Laundrette
2021
Nonetheless
2024
Get the Pet Shop Boys Sound
Want to sound like Pet Shop Boys? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.