A-HA

This electro pop trio from Oslo with perfect cheekbones became the first Norwegian act to achieve international fame.  Their initial hit, Take On Me, featured an innovative animated video directed by Steve Barron, but had to be re-released at least two times before it became a big hit in both the UK and USA.  Although primarily known for their perky singles, album tracks often reveal a moodier, typically Nordic, feel.

The Sun Always Shines On TV

UK, 1986. WEA Records (W8845P)
1. The Sun Always Shines On TV
2. Driftwood

This sun-shaped picture disc helped a-Ha achieve their only UK number one, taking advantage of the traditional January lull in new releases.

 Train Of Thought

1986, UK.  WEA Records (W7836P)
1. Train Of Thought (Remix)
2. And You Tell Me

So a song about a train gets a train-shaped picture disc.  The 80s were sometimes a literal-minded decade.