"Baby, the Stars Shine Bright" is indeed the third studio album by the British duo Everything but the Girl, released on August 25, 1986, through Blanco y Negro Records. This album marked a significant step in the band's evolution, featuring their signature blend of pop, jazz, and soul influences.
The 2012 reissue by Edsel Records as a remastered two-disc deluxe set included additional content, offering fans a deeper look into the album’s production and the duo's work during that period. The reissue often includes bonus tracks, remixes, and additional liner notes that provide more context and background on the original release.
"Baby, the Stars Shine Bright" stands out in Everything but the Girl's discography due to its unique approach and influences. Rather than conforming to the synthetic production trends of the 1980s, the duo, consisting of Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt, chose to draw inspiration from 1960s orchestrated music and the classic sound of artists like Dusty Springfield. This "anti-rock" stance and their preference for a more vintage, rich sound distinguished the album from many of its contemporaries.
Their decision to incorporate lush, orchestrated arrangements and evoke a sense of nostalgia for the 1960s helped create a distinctive sound that set "Baby, the Stars Shine Bright" apart from the prevailing musical trends of the time. This approach not only highlighted their originality but also showcased their commitment to maintaining their own artistic vision.
