Madness Album: “Wonderful [Japan Bonus Tracks]”

I admit to a sentimental attachment to this band and their music. I owned all of their original material on British Import, and even though I thought their "final" album (released 15 years ago) was disappointing, I bought this one with high hopes. It is a triumph. I disagree with one of the earlier reviewers: I thought the "Nutty Sound" was immediately recognizable ("Johnny the Horse" or "Drip Fed Fred" could have come from their "One Step Beyond" days) but songs like "Elysium" remind me of "Keep Moving". Listen carefully to "Saturday Night Sunday Morning": it's lyrics will bring a wry smile to your face..."everything has changed, just everything; it's not Saturday Night, it's Sunday Morning." That's probably the theme of this disc: the same band, a little older, a little more mature musically. I'm glad to have them back, making great pop music again.

I have listened to the CD and I'm still debating if I truely like it or not. Although I'm a huge fan of Madness, it seems so far from what I'm used to hearing from them. It's not bad, just different. You can hear the full version of the entire CD on Madness's (Official Site). Check it out for yourself.

I was lucky to find this gem while I was in Singapore. This is way better then the UK import. It has two extra tracks that are found on the Love Struck single's. Then one that is not found anywhere. I HIGHLY suggest grabbing this up while its around. Dont miss out on the extra tracks. Its a great album for a bunch of old men that can still rock a concert hall (I witnessed them live in NYC April 2000). For the serious Madness fan this is a MUST BUY piece of the nuttiest sounds around.

Like the previous reviewer, I wasn't really sure what to think when I first got this album. I'm a huge fan of the Madness of old, and this is a somewhat different album from what Madness was known for. But the more I listen to this album the more I like it. The good bands are the ones that aren't afraid to change over time, but are still able to maintain their relevance. I never grow tired of Johnny the Horse, no matter how many times I listen to it. Great musical hooks, plus a message to boot. 4am is a great exploration of the emotions following a breakup (and actually a cover from one of Suggs' solo albums). The rest of the album remains solid, if quirky. I hope this won't be the last album from an incredible band.