ZX Spectrum

Thousands of kids could now play computer games (in their own home!!) via the television. You had to load the game in each time you played, via a cassette (player not included). The whole loading process took about four hours, you played for about 10 minutes until your dad wanted to watch the news and you had to switch it off.

Pop videos and 12in singles

Pop videos arrived, a small film that seemed to have nothing whatsoever to do with the song it was accompanying. Also came the 12in single, which in most cases was the 7in single with a really long intro.

The Young Ones

Comedy was revolutionized in the 80s by this madcap student comedy and a whole generation of school kids learned a whole new way to insult each other.

Big hair

Everyone under the age of 40 had massive hair.

Live Aid

The greatest concert of all time. Bob Geldolf swore at everyone until they agreed to beat poverty by singing at it really loudly from all around the world.

Umbrage Swain & The Magical Diamond of Ramtutiti, Underbelly, 0844 545 8252, 2–24 Aug (not 12), 7.30pm, £9–£10.50 (£8–£9.50). Previews 31 Jul & 1 Aug, £6.