I think a case can be made that there's always some good music...just have to know where to look.  Here's some examples of bands and/or albums from the 80's that I think stood out as better than average.  The stuff I listened to tended to be more guitar driven so that's why my list looks like this.

Big Country:  In particular, have a listen to Steeltown

Guadacanal Diary:   In particular, Walking in the Shadow of the Big Man.  Part of that Athens GA sound that was really made big by...

REM:  Listen to any of the IRS stuff.  It's really good.

Talking Heads:  I seem to remember this little band had a few minor blips on the musical landscape during the 80's. They were around a lot earlier than that though...

The Smithereens:  A girl like you...blood and roses..y'know.

The Bangles:  Ok...ok.  I know what you're thinkin'....but as compared to crap like Soft Cel, Bananarama and the Human League, their stuff rocks.  Same with with the Go-Go's.  I loved them too!

And speaking of Real Hotties that got their start in the 80's...how 'bout Sade...first album out in 1985, second in 88.  Just listening to those two records yesterday and they have a real nice timeless feel.

OK...

PRH

P.S.:  I didn't mention David and David...I think that should just be a given.