"Staring at the Sun" is the eighth studio album by British jazz-funk band, Level 42. It was released in 1988 and marked a transition for the band as it was the first album released following the departure of brothers Phil and Rowland 'Boon' Gould. The album carries a significantly different sound compared to previous Level 42 records, as it moves away from jazz-funk roots and leans more towards pop and rock.
The two leading singles from the album were "Heaven in My Hands" and "Take a Look," both of which reached the UK Singles Chart Top 10. Another single, "Tracie", was also released and dedicated to Tracie Young, a pop singer who was associated with the British music scene in the early '80s.
Despite the significant changes in the band's line-up and sound, the album received positive reviews. It climbed to No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and was certified Gold.
In terms of the band members involved in the creation of the album, the core members were Mark King, Mike Lindup, and new members Gary Husband and Jakko Jakszyk. Their distinctive and innovative sound, along with a mix of musical styles, contributed to the album's success in the late '80s.
Overall, "Staring at the Sun" marked a new phase in Level 42's musical journey, showcasing their ability to adapt and evolve their sound while maintaining commercial success. Despite the initial shock of the Gould brothers departing, the band managed to navigate these changes and continue their success in the British music scene.
