New Wave music reviews

For most Americans, Madness's career started and ended with the 1982 MTV staple "Our House." In Britain, however, the group is considered one of the country's greatest singles bands of all time. This pivotal album helps explain why. The seven-piece's nutty ska sound is buoyed by some genuinely endearing melodies, suggesting that Madness were far more clever than their whimsical hit made them out to be. "Tomorrow's Just Another Day" rolls along on a warm, ascending melody, while "Primrose Hill" sounds a touch classical, as crisp horns waltz and a jumpy piano rhythm pushes the song along. The still-charming "Our House" serves as the disc's centerpiece. --Aidin Vaziri

For most Americans, Madness's career started and ended with the 1982 MTV staple "Our House." In Britain, however, the group is considered one of the country's greatest singles bands of all time. This pivotal album helps explain why. The seven-piece's nutty ska sound is buoyed by some genuinely endearing melodies, suggesting that Madness were far more clever than their whimsical hit made them out to be. "Tomorrow's Just Another Day" rolls along on a warm, ascending melody, while "Primrose Hill" sounds a touch classical, as crisp horns waltz and a jumpy piano rhythm pushes the song along. The still-charming "Our House" serves as the disc's centerpiece. --Aidin Vaziri