In the mid-1990s, as nostalgia for the vibrant New Wave era began to surge, Rhino Records delivered a treasure trove for music enthusiasts: the 15-volume “Just Can’t Get Enough: New Wave Hits of the ’80s” series. Spanning the genre’s evolution from its punk-infused beginnings in the late ’70s to its synth-driven heyday in the mid-’80s, this comprehensive collection remains a benchmark for compilations.
The Birth of a Definitive Collection Rhino Records, renowned for its high-quality reissues and compilations, launched the series in 1994. The first five volumes dropped on June 21, 1994, focusing primarily on music from 1977–1981 (with Volume 1 containing no tracks from the actual 1980s—tracks from 1980 onward begin appearing midway through Volume 2). Volumes 6–10 followed on October 18, 1994, centering on 1982 with some spillover into 1983. The final five volumes (11–15) arrived on June 20, 1995, covering 1983–1985.
The series was issued on both CD and cassette. Many tracks were mastered from original 7-inch single sources for superior sound quality. It included numerous songs making their CD debut (and, in rare cases, their only official digital appearance at the time). Liner notes from knowledgeable writers like Roy Trakin, Andy Zax, and others added historical context and charm. Some volumes featured bonus tracks, such as rare cuts or additional obscurities. Additional themed spin-offs like New Wave Dance Hits, New Wave Women, New Wave Halloween, and New Wave Christmas expanded the universe in later years. Unfortunately, Rhino discontinued the main series due to licensing and rights issues, with no official re-releases planned. Original pressings have become collectible gems.
What Makes This Series Stand Out?
Unlike many scattershot ’80s hits collections, this one is thoughtfully chronological and genre-focused. It balances massive chart-toppers with cult favorites, one-hit wonders, and deep cuts—capturing New Wave’s eclectic spirit: punk energy, art-rock experimentation, synth-pop hooks, ska influences, and new romantic glamour. The mastering from singles often gives tracks a punchier, more authentic feel than album versions. The consistent “leather jacket with pins” artwork across volumes (with color variations) makes the full set visually striking on a shelf.
Highlights Across the Volumes
- Early Volumes (1–5): Proto-New Wave and late-’70s energy. Standouts include Plastic Bertrand’s “Ça plane pour moi,” Blondie’s “One Way or Another,” The Buggles’ “Video Killed the Radio Star,” Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” Gary Numan’s “Cars,” Devo’s “Whip It,” and Soft Cell’s “Tainted Love.”
- Mid Volumes (6–10): Peak early ’80s hits and quirks. Think Men at Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?,” Culture Club’s “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?,” Dexys Midnight Runners’ “Come On Eileen,” Duran Duran’s “Rio,” The Human League’s “(Keep Feeling) Fascination,” and rarities like The Little Girls’ “Earthquake Song.”
- Later Volumes (11–15): Mid-’80s polish and anthems. Highlights feature Big Country’s “In a Big Country,” Nena’s “99 Luftballons,” Tears for Fears’ “Change,” Spandau Ballet’s “True,” Culture Club’s “Karma Chameleon,” and Katrina and the Waves’ “Walking on Sunshine.”
Rarities and bonuses (e.g., Killer Pussy’s “Teenage Enema Nurses in Bondage” or Cabaret Voltaire tracks) add collector appeal. Legacy and Why It Still Matters The series is frequently praised by fans and critics as one of the best New Wave anthologies ever assembled—comprehensive yet accessible, with excellent curation and sound. It served as a gateway for younger listeners in the ’90s and ’00s rediscovering the era while satisfying completists with its depth. Today, with streaming, it’s easier than ever to experience the full journey (around 14+ hours across all volumes), though physical copies remain prized. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to New Wave, this series encapsulates why the genre endures: its creativity, catchiness, and rebellious fun.
