The Liberty of Norton Folgate

Product description

Lauded 2009 studio album of sophisticated pop by the London nutty boys ... their first album of original material in 10 years!

Review

Despite being enamored with ska s Jamaican skank, Madness never forgot their working-class British roots. And the band s first album of new material in a decade owes a greater debt to the Kinks than to Prince Buster. London landmarks (the Hippodrome, Marks & Spencer) add sharp details to memories of a soured relationship on the piano-and-organ-led ''Sugar and Spice.'' The similarly wistful ''Forever Young'' weaves horn lines over minor-key piano plaints and a loping backbeat. It all looks backward unabashedly -- fitting for a band formed 30-plus years ago -- but no less resonant.

Four stars. --Spin