"Wonderland" is the debut studio album by British synth-pop duo Erasure. Comprised of Vince Clarke and Andy Bell, the album was initially released in the UK on 1st May 1986, then in the U.S. in June 1986. Vince Clarke is formerly a member of Depeche Mode and Yazoo, while Andy Bell was a relative newcomer to the music scene, famously winning his place within the group through auditions.
"Wonderland" represents the beginning of a long and successful partnership between Clarke and Bell, a partnership that has seen Erasure become one of the most popular and enduring acts in the world of synthpop and dance. The album was produced by Flood, who is a well-known British post-punk and alternative rock producer.
The album features the hit singles "Oh L'amour" and "Who Needs Love Like That." Despite a slow start commercially, the album set the duo on a path to success with it later reaching gold status in the UK and selling over a million copies worldwide. Although not initially a commercial success, the songs from the album have stood the test of time and have become part of the sound which defines Erasure.
"Wonderland" has a mix of fast, upbeat songs like "Love Is A Loser" and "Cry So Easy" along with ballads such as "My Heart... So Blue" which showcases Erasure's versatility and hints at the success that would follow their debut. Its style, as well as its lyrical themes encompassing love, heartbreak, and more, set the blueprint for what was to come from Erasure in the years following its release.
