"Temperamental" is the tenth studio album by the English musical duo Everything but the Girl, released on September 27, 1999, through Virgin Records and Atlantic Records. This album marked the duo's final release before a lengthy hiatus of two decades.
The album showcases their signature blend of pop and electronic influences, continuing to explore themes of love, relationships, and introspection. With a polished production style, Temperamental features a mix of catchy melodies and atmospheric soundscapes, demonstrating the duo's evolution as artists. The project received positive reviews, further solidifying their reputation for thoughtful lyrics and innovative music.
Temperamental was shaped by the personal experiences of Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt, particularly during the period following the birth of their twin daughters in 1998. With Thorn's focus on motherhood, her involvement in the album's creation was reduced, leading Watt to take a more prominent role in writing and producing. Thorn recorded most of her vocals during late-night sessions after the twins were asleep, which she later described in her autobiography, Bedsit Disco Queen, as making her feel like a "guest vocalist" on Watt's project.
Watt continued to build on the sound established in their previous album, Walking Wounded (1996), collaborating with electronic music influences. He incorporated production techniques from his time as a resident DJ, using methods like crossfading, back spinning, and filtering to enhance the album's texture. This resulted in a rich, atmospheric sound that maintained their signature style while exploring new sonic territory.
