"Happiness Not Included" marks the triumphant return of British synth-pop duo Soft Cell, released on May 6, 2022, through BMG Rights Management. This album signifies their first studio release in two decades, following "Cruelty Without Beauty" from 2002. The lead-up to the album included the singles "Bruises on All My Illusions" in 2021 and "Purple Zone" in 2022, the latter featuring a collaboration with fellow British synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys.
In 2023, two companion albums were released alongside "Happiness Not Included." "Happiness Now Completed" contains additional tracks and remixes recorded during the album sessions, while "Happiness Now Extended" offers extended versions of all the original album tracks. This release not only reintroduces Soft Cell's iconic sound to fans but also extends their musical exploration with new collaborations and variations on their established style.
