About This Item
Double 180gm vinyl LP pressing. Happiness was recorded from late 1988 to summer 1989, influenced by the band's immersion in the nascent UK Acid House scene. Originally a four-piece guitar/synth band, The Beloved MK1 parted ways late 1987 and founder members Jon Marsh and Steve Waddington were newly liberated by their electronic, machine-driven rhythm section. The perfect synchronicity of the Balearic stylings of the underground clubs and exposure to early Chicago House corresponded with a burst in songwriting and sonic adventure. The result Happiness! Recorded mostly with producer Martyn Phillips (who subsequently worked with Erasure, Jesus Jones, & Londonbeat) the band created a hybrid of British electronic pop music, US club beats, euphoric mood and consistently optimistic and uplifting lyrics. Four singles were released 'The Sun Rising', which gave The Beloved their first Top 40 hit in October 1989; 'Hello', released January 1990, which peaked at #19 and led to the band's first appearance on Top Of The Pops; 'Your Love Takes Me Higher', which became their third Top 40 hit in 1990; and final single 'Time After Time'.
