It's Better to Travel is the debut album by the British pop band Swing Out Sister, released in 1987 on Mercury Records. The album's title is inspired by the popular adage, It's better to travel hopefully than to arrive, reflecting the band's sense of adventure and exploration in their music.
Upon its release, It's Better to Travel was a significant commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart. The album's success was bolstered by several hit singles, most notably Breakout, which became an international hit and is perhaps the band's best-known song. Other notable tracks include Surrender" and Twilight World, both of which also performed well on the charts.
The album is characterized by its sophisticated blend of pop, jazz, and soul, with lush arrangements, catchy melodies, and smooth production. The band's sound was fresh and innovative for the time, combining influences from 1960s pop and contemporary electronic music to create a distinctive and polished style. Lead singer Corinne Drewery's expressive vocals, combined with the band's skilled instrumentation, helped Swing Out Sister stand out in the late 1980s pop scene.
Critically, the album was well-received, with praise for its stylish production and the band's ability to craft memorable pop songs. The album's mix of upbeat tracks and more introspective numbers showcased the band's versatility and set the stage for their continued success in the music industry.
It's Better to Travel remains a beloved album among fans of 1980s pop music and is often regarded as one of Swing Out Sister's best works. The album's timeless appeal and the enduring popularity of songs like Breakout have ensured its place as a classic in the genre. Swing Out Sister continued to release music in the following years, but It's Better to Travel remains a defining moment in their career.
