Originally aligned with the legendary 2 Tone label, Birmingham ska-pop heroes The Beat established their legend with their brilliant 1980 debut album, “I Just Can’t Stop It” an infectious hits-stuffed affair which climbed to No.3 in the UK. Musically wider in scope, the group’s 1981 follow-up, “Wh’appen?”, embraced reggae, dub and African influences on gentler tracks including “Drowning”, “Doors Of Your Heart” and “Dream Home In New Zealand“, although the hard-hitting social commentary inherent in songs such as “Cheated” and “Get A Job” showed that Dave Wakeling, Ranking Roger and company remained as politically aware as ever.
“Wh’appen” went Top 5 following its original release, and it now returns with an additional disc’s worth of non-album singles and remixes, making for a real highlight among the best Record Store Day 2024 vinyl releases.
The Fat Angel Sings 