Happy Mondays - Squirrel And G - Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out) (LP)

Released in 1987, "Squirrel And G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out)" is the debut studio album by the British alternative rock band Happy Mondays. Produced by John Cale, this album showcases the band's unique blend of indie rock, post-punk, and dance music, which would later become synonymous with the Madchester scene.

Clocking in at just under 40 minutes, the album consists of ten tracks that capture the essence of the band's energetic and hedonistic sound. From the opening track "Kuff Dam," the listener is immediately immersed in a whirlwind of funky basslines, catchy guitar riffs, and Shaun Ryder's distinctive and often unintelligible vocals. The band's use of electronic beats and samples, combined with their raw and unpolished approach, creates a chaotic yet infectious atmosphere throughout the album.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Tart Tart," a song that perfectly encapsulates the Happy Mondays' fusion of rock and dance music. The infectious groove, driven by the rhythm section of Paul Ryder on bass and Gary Whelan on drums, is complemented by the swirling keyboards of Paul Davis and the melodic guitar work of Mark Day. Shaun Ryder's lyrics, delivered with his trademark Mancunian drawl, add a sense of irreverence and wit to the song.

Another highlight is "Olive Oil," a track that showcases the band's ability to create a hypnotic and trance-like atmosphere. The repetitive bassline, combined with the swirling keyboards and Shaun Ryder's stream-of-consciousness lyrics, creates a mesmerizing and almost psychedelic experience. The band's use of samples, including snippets of dialogue from movies and TV shows, adds an extra layer of texture to the song.

While the album is primarily known for its dance-oriented tracks, there are also moments of introspection and vulnerability. "Desmond" is a slower, more introspective song that showcases Shaun Ryder's ability to convey emotion through his lyrics. The stripped-down instrumentation allows his vocals to take center stage, and the result is a haunting and poignant track that stands out amidst the album's more upbeat offerings.

"Squirrel And G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out)" is not without its flaws, however. The production, while capturing the raw energy of the band, can sometimes feel muddy and lacking in clarity. This, combined with Shaun Ryder's often incomprehensible vocals, may be off-putting to some listeners who prefer a more polished sound.

Despite these shortcomings, the album remains an important and influential release in the Madchester scene. Its unique blend of rock, dance, and indie sensibilities laid the groundwork for the band's subsequent success and helped define the sound of the era. Happy Mondays' ability to seamlessly fuse different genres and create a sound that was both innovative and accessible is evident throughout the album.

In conclusion, "Squirrel And G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out)" is a seminal album that showcases the Happy Mondays at their most raw and energetic. While it may not be the most polished or accessible release, it captures the spirit of the Madchester scene and remains a testament to the band's unique sound. Fans of alternative rock, post-punk, and dance music will find much to enjoy in this album, as it serves as a snapshot of a vibrant and influential era in British music history.