"Behaviour" is the fourth studio album by English synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys. It was initially released on 22 October 1990 by Parlophone. Merging smoothly with their trademark synth-pop, the album ventures further into introspective, atmospheric, and ambient textures, diversifying their surreal electronic music direction. It was produced by the duet themselves and fellow British musician Harold Faltermeyer.
The album is known for its mature, reflective lyrical themes focused heavily on introspection, love, and loss. The standout tracks from the album include "Being Boring", "So Hard", and "Jealousy", each reflecting these themes. "Behaviour" critically is hailed as one of Pet Shop Boys' best works, even if it wasn't their most commercially successful album.
However, Behaviour has since grown in stature and reputation often regarded as a milestone synth-pop album, demonstrating the genre's potential for emotional depth and stylistic evolution. To date, the album has sold around 2.5 million copies worldwide.
Despite the somber tones, the Pet Shop Boys didn't abandon their dance music roots entirely. The duo maintains their flair for creating highly danceable music that blends pop sensibilities with a theatrical edge, leading to a sound that's uniquely their own. The album is known for its high production value, with sophisticated arrangements that elevate the synthesizer-based pop to new levels.