New Wave Outpost Forum

If you were to make a New Wave song, what elements should it include to make it New Wave?

I realize there are sub-genres. What is the sub-genre for Roxy Music, OMD, Alphaville, A-Ha, Spandeau Ballet, New Order?

What are the characteristics that make them New Wave.

I found these:
- Male singer
- 4/4 time (?) ( I know that's like 99% of music, but there's something peculiar that I don't know how to describe. I'm not a drummer.)
- Non-synth sounding drums (or at least not very synth-sounding)
- Bass-driven
- Choir (ah)
- String-swells
- Strings follow melody-line

I'm sure there are lots more.

Any thoughts? I was hoping this board had New Wave experts on it. (hint)