Beloved - Happiness

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'.