"No Dice" is the third studio album by British rock band Badfinger, released on November 9, 1970, by Apple Records. It was their second album under the Badfinger name, following Magic Christian Music (1969), which was originally recorded under the band's previous name, The Iveys. No Dice marks the first album with new guitarist Joey Molland, who replaced bassist Ron Griffiths. Molland's arrival prompted Tom Evans to switch from rhythm guitar to bass, solidifying the lineup that would go on to release Badfinger's most successful albums.
The album significantly expanded Badfinger's popularity, particularly abroad, with its two standout tracks: the hit single "No Matter What" and the song "Without You". While "No Matter What" became one of their biggest hits, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, it is "Without You" that would achieve even greater fame in subsequent years. The song was famously covered by Harry Nilsson, reaching number 1 on the Billboard charts in 1972, and later by Mariah Carey in 1994. "Without You" would go on to become a major earner for Badfinger in royalties, having been covered by over 200 artists.
The album's cover featured a model who, according to Joey Molland, was hired by Gene Mahon and Richard DiLello for the shoot. Molland later asked DiLello about her at a Beatlefest in the 1970s, and the model's name was reportedly Kathy, although her full identity remains unconfirmed.
Musically, No Dice represents a refined power pop sound, often compared to the early Beatles. Rolling Stone praised the album, suggesting it reflected what the Beatles would have sounded like if they had stuck with their original formula.
The album was a commercial success, peaking at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 200. However, its success was largely driven by "No Matter What", which became a defining track in the power pop genre. The remastered edition of No Dice was released in 1992 by Capitol Records and Apple, featuring five bonus tracks, including outtakes from the "No Matter What" sessions and material recorded for a follow-up album that was never released.
