"The It Girl" is the second studio album by English Britpop band Sleeper, which was released on May 6, 1996. Following the success of their debut album "Smart" in 1995, Sleeper further bolstered their place in the Britpop scene with "The It Girl." It was produced by Stephen Street, a renowned British music producer known for his work with bands like Blur and The Smiths.
The album was a critical and commercial success, peaking at number 5 on the UK Albums Chart. It produced three top 20 hit singles: "What Do I Do Now?", "Sale of the Century" and "Nice Guy Eddie." The album maintains a pop-oriented approach, noted for its insightful, scathing lyrical takes on relationships and tongue-in-cheek commentary on social issues, all backed by catchy guitar riffs and lively melodies.
The title "The It Girl" is a cultural concept implying a young woman who possesses the indefinable quality "It", an absolute attraction without overt sexual appeal. It highlights frontwoman Louise Wener's role as the band's focal point, around whom much of Sleeper's media attention was centered due to her distinctive vocals and sharp, observational lyricism.
Despite the band's breakup in 1998, "The It Girl" remains a landmark album in the Britpop era, encapsulating the spirit and sound of mid-90s UK indie rock scene. It wonderfully showcases Sleeper's knack for crafting memorable, hit-worthy pop songs while throwing punches at societal norms and conventions.
