Madness

“Madness,” released in 1983 by Geffen Records, was a compilation album specifically designed for the American market. Although Madness had achieved significant success in the United Kingdom, their exposure in the United States was limited. Geffen Records created this album as a “greatest hits” introduction to American listeners, featuring a selection of their most popular UK singles and standout album tracks. The album was released exclusively in the United States, Canada, Japan, and Mexico.

The tracklist features popular songs such as “Our House,” which became the band’s most successful U.S. single, peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. Additionally, “It Must Be Love” also gained popularity in the United States. Other notable tracks include “House of Fun,” “Night Boat to Cairo,” and “Shut Up,” which exemplify the band’s distinctive fusion of ska, pop, and British humor.

Released on vinyl and cassette, with subsequent CD editions, the album didn’t achieve massive commercial success in the United States. However, it played a pivotal role in introducing Madness’ unique and eclectic style to new audiences. Critics lauded the album for capturing the band’s playful and quirky essence, showcasing their remarkable versatility through their track selection. While Madness never achieved the same level of fame in the U.S. as in the United Kingdom, this album remains a significant release, serving as a gateway for many American fans to explore the band’s extensive discography.