Before I discovered new romantics, rock, and grunge music at the turn of the 90s when I was 7 or 8 years old, the London-based Ska-pop sextet Madness was probably the first band that made me love music. I loved their catchy riffs, ska beats, cheeky chappy vibe. They encapsulated musical craftsmanship, paired with a “they’re lads from round-the-corner” approachability. ‘One Step Beyond’ was one of the first cassette tapes I ever owned, which my parents passed on to me because I kept dancing around the bedroom as a five-year-old to their songs. I performed ‘Baggy Trousers’ as part of a local theatre show when I was 14 as part of a youth talent festival, and on the final night, the stage crew decided to do the signature Madness dance behind me impromptu. It’s still one of my favourite personal stage performance memories to this day.
My knowledge of Madness is limited to album releases only. I had no idea they part-financed and released ‘Take It Or Leave It’, a documentary of their early years of writing and performing music. Released in 1981, it charts the first five years of Madness, from when they formed in 1976, became the Madness setup it became known for in 1979, and ends with a sellout crowd concert. The message that ordinary people can do extraordinary things is simple, and the band showed that they were relatively grounded Londoners. It also captures a very specific time in the late 70s and early 80s when London was transitioning into a vibrant, multicultural cornucopia. It’s optimistic, bold, and scrappy. Whilst that brings an appeal today, it was the reason it only saw a limited theatre release back in 1981.
BFI have announced that they will release a 4K Remaster on Blu-ray in late 2026, as well as bringing it to their BFI Player app. Take It Or Leave It will also get a cinema rerun across the UK and Ireland from 2nd October, with special Q&A previews from 30th September. I’m looking forward to watching this gem when it comes out; it looks like a fabulous time capsule!
Madness are still extremely active and are a UK mainstay. To catch them live across their summer shows in 2026, visit Madness’ website.
Support Higher Plain Music
Higher Plain Music is part of the Higher Plain Network – a one-man indie media project. If you like what I do, please consider supporting me using Patreon for as little as $1/£1 a month. In return, you’ll receive additional perks for supporting me, such as behind-the-scenes content and free downloads. You can also donate using PayPal.
If you can’t help financially, then reading and sharing the website helps, too. When you click on an Amazon affiliate buy now link and purchase something on Amazon, I receive a few pence in referral commission. All your support will enable me to produce better content, more often. I’d love to make this a full-time media network, and your support can make that happen. Thank you for helping keep truly independent media alive.
Discover more from Higher Plain Music
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
