"0898 Beautiful South" is the third studio album by English alternative rock band The Beautiful South, released in 1992. The title is a play on the traditional British phone number prefix "0898" used for premium rate telephone numbers, hinting at the album's themes of love, relationships, and communication.
The album features the band's signature blend of witty and ironic lyrics, catchy melodies, and eclectic musical styles, including elements of pop, rock, jazz, and folk. Vocalists Paul Heaton and Briana Corrigan deliver poignant and sardonic lyrics that explore the complexities of romantic relationships, social issues, and everyday life.
Highlights from the album include the hit singles "Old Red Eyes Is Back," "We Are Each Other," and "Bell Bottomed Tear," which showcase The Beautiful South's distinctive sound and lyrical prowess. The album also features cover versions of songs by artists such as Neil Diamond and Michael Jackson, reinventing them with the band's unique style.
"0898 Beautiful South" received positive reviews from critics and achieved commercial success, reaching number 4 on the UK Albums Chart. It further solidified The Beautiful South's reputation as one of the most innovative and successful bands of the 1990s British music scene.
Overall, "0898 Beautiful South" stands as a testament to the band's ability to craft intelligent and memorable pop songs that resonate with audiences while tackling deeper themes with wit and insight.
