ハウス・オブ・ファン

The single “House of Fun” was released in Japan in 1982 during the peak of the band’s popularity. Originally a UK chart-topper, the song reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Madness’ only No. 1 hit. Released by Victor Records, the Japanese version didn’t achieve the same commercial success but played an important role in expanding the band’s international appeal.

A unique feature of the Japanese release was its B-side, “Cardiac Arrest,” which had been a standalone single in the UK, reaching No. 14 on the charts earlier in 1982. This pairing was distinctive compared to other international releases, making the Japanese edition particularly notable. “Cardiac Arrest” offered a darker, more satirical view of adult life pressures, contrasting with the playful, coming-of-age theme of “House of Fun,” where a young man awkwardly tries to buy condoms from a joke shop.