Description
Released in August 1988, The Eight Legged Groove Machine is the debut studio album by English alternative rock band The Wonder Stuff - Issued by Polydor Records, it established the group as an emerging force in the British independent music scene - The album was produced by Pat Collier and features the original line-up of Miles Hunt (vocals and guitar), Malcolm Treece (guitar and vocals), Rob "The Bass Thing" Jones (bass) and Martin Gilks (drums) - This 180g vinyl re-issue faithfully replicates the original Polydor UK pressing.
The record combines energetic guitar riffs, driving rhythms, melodic hooks and Hunt's distinctive vocal delivery. Its sound draws on punk's directness and the tunefulness of alternative pop, creating a lively collection of concise, often irreverent songs. Tracks such as "Unbearable", "Give Give Give Me More More More", "A Wish Away" and "It's Yer Money I'm After, Baby" were released as singles, helping to introduce the band to a wider audience.
Other songs, including "Red Berry Joy Town", "Grin" and "Ruby Horse", demonstrate the group's knack for combining infectious melodies with sharp-edged guitars and an energetic performance style. The album reached number 18 on the UK Albums Chart and was later certified silver in Britain.
The Eight Legged Groove Machine established the musical identity that The Wonder Stuff would develop on subsequent releases, notably their 1989 follow-up, Hup.
