"The Happy Album" is a music album by the British ska band The Selecter. Released in 1994, it is the band's fourth studio album. The album is notable because it signaled the reunification of the original lineup, with lead singer Pauline Black and original toaster Arthur 'Gaps' Hendrickson once more at the helm.
The band itself, The Selecter, came to prominence as part of the ska revival movement in the UK in the late 1970s, with their blending of traditional ska rhythms with a punk rock twist. They were one of the key bands in the 2-Tone record label, which also included The Specials and Madness.
"The Happy Album" is characterized by its upbeat ska-pop tunes and danceable rhythms, and is often described as having a more polished and pop-oriented sound than their earlier works. Despite this new direction, the album retained the band's socio-political lyrical content, exploring themes such as love, happiness, and social issues. Much of the music was written by Pauline Black and Arthur 'Gaps' Hendrickson.
The album received mixed reviews upon its release. Those who were fans of the band's earlier, rawer sound were disappointed with the pop-oriented direction the band had taken. However, others appreciated the band's experimentation and evolution, stating that it showcased their artistic versatility.
Despite the varied reception, The Selecter continued to be a key presence in the British ska scene, and "The Happy Album" remains a distinctive record in their discography.
