Episode 53: Erasure - The Innocents (1988) Part 1

For the next three episodes, Brian and Sarah are thrilled to welcome a very special guest to the show. Andrew Dineley is an art designer and regular contributor to Classic Pop magazine with the feature "Pop Art." He also hosts his own podcast called "Art On Your Sleeve" which talks about the design work of the albums and singles from 80s artists such as the ones discussed on this very podcast. Andrew was gracious enough to share his time, knowledge, and personal experiences in an in-depth look at Erasure's third album, "The Innocents."

Part 1 - Album History

Vince Clarke and Andy Bell finally found UK chart success with their second album, "The Circus," but Erasure's third album, "The Innocents," was the one that started their 'Imperial Phase' in the UK. It also gave them their breakthrough in America. Sarah fills us in on the release, sales, and chart information for the album, which includes a bit of a surprise in the UK chart history. Moving on, Andrew, Brian, and Sarah discuss the making of the album, and in particular, the presence of producer Stephen Hague. Andrew shares information about the art design of the album cover and the related singles, and then Brian expresses confusion as to why so few singles were released from this record. The discussion also turns to the political and social climate of the time, which most certainly influenced the lyrics Andy Bell wrote for the album. And at one point, the hosts start talking about a very strange combination of artists: AC/DC, Pink Floyd and Christopher Cross!

Part 2 - Personal History

All three of the hosts have fond memories of "The Innocents." Of course, Andrew got his copy before Brian and Sarah could get theirs, since it was released about a month earlier in the UK than in the US. But Brian was no slacker; he picked it up the week of release in the US. Sarah once again got her copy of the album from Brian, and she gives him credit for getting it to her just before the school year ended. They all cited this album as being in their "heavy rotation" during the summer of 1988. Special bonus: what was it about this album that caused Brian to spend a solid week in an ocean-front arcade that summer???

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