Keep Moving (Expanded Edition)

The 2023 Keep Moving (Expanded Edition) by Madness, released on June 23, 2023, by BMG, represents both a celebration and rediscovery of one of the band’s most pivotal albums. Originally issued in February 1984, Keep Moving was the fifth studio album by the British ska and new wave pioneers. It marked a transitional moment in the group’s history, being the last record made with the original lineup before keyboardist Mike Barson took a lengthy hiatus from the band. Barson’s departure made the album feel like a closing chapter in one phase of Madness’s journey, and his eventual return in 1992 for the Madstock! reunion—and full-time from 1999—gave the 1984 release an even greater sense of historical importance in retrospect.

The original Keep Moving album was notable for its maturing sound, moving slightly away from the playful “nutty” identity that had come to define Madness’s earlier work. It still retained the infectious hooks and clever lyricism fans loved, but it also showcased a more nuanced, melodic approach to songwriting. This evolution was especially evident in tracks like “One Better Day,” a socially conscious ballad often praised as one of the band’s most underrated gems, and “Michael Caine,” which memorably included samples of the actor’s voice and highlighted the band’s willingness to experiment with sound and structure. The album reached No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart and contained other standouts like “Victoria Gardens,” a fan favorite that reflected the group’s capacity for cinematic storytelling and rich musical textures.

Fast forward nearly four decades, and the 2023 Expanded Edition breathes new life into the album. Packaged as a 2CD set, it includes a freshly remastered version of the original release on the first disc, providing improved clarity and sonic depth that modernizes the listening experience while preserving the charm and atmosphere of the original recordings. The second disc is where the set truly becomes a treasure trove for fans. It offers 13 bonus tracks, comprising B-sides, standalone singles, alternate versions, and extended mixes. This includes well-loved tracks like “Wings of a Dove” and “The Sun and the Rain,” both vibrant, standalone hits that were not included in the original Keep Moving album but are deeply associated with that era of Madness’s output.

Among the bonus material, collectors will especially appreciate rarities like the “Michael Caine (12” Extended Version),” which adds layers and duration to an already intricate track. Alternate mixes like “Victoria Gardens (Remix)” provide fresh perspectives on familiar tunes, while songs like “If You Think There’s Something” delve deeper into the band’s lesser-known but no less compelling work from this period. These additions help create a more comprehensive understanding of the musical landscape Madness was exploring in the mid-1980s, allowing listeners to hear how the band’s signature blend of ska, pop, and new wave evolved across different tracks.

Adding another layer of appeal to the reissue is a set of exclusive liner notes that feature new interviews with the band members themselves. Contributions from Lee ‘Kix’ Thompson, Mike Barson, Suggs McPherson, Mark Bedford, Cathal ‘Chas Smash’ Smyth, and Chrissyboy Foreman bring a candid and reflective tone to the package. These interviews offer behind-the-scenes stories, personal insights, and historical commentary, giving fans a deeper appreciation for both the music and the context in which it was made. The liner notes don’t just add to the collector’s value—they serve as a kind of oral history that preserves the spirit of the band at a crucial moment in their career.

Though detailed contemporary reviews of the expanded edition are limited, the significance of the release is evident in its careful curation and rich content. It stands alongside other thoughtful Madness reissues, like the 2023 Wonderful (Expanded Edition), as part of a broader effort to reintroduce and reframe the band’s legacy for both longtime fans and new listeners.

In conclusion, the 2023 Keep Moving (Expanded Edition) is more than just a reissue—it’s a reverent tribute to a defining era in Madness’s career. With its remastered tracks, extensive bonus material, and heartfelt liner notes, this edition is both a nostalgic revisit and a new journey into a classic album. For fans old and new, it’s a compelling reason to keep moving with Madness.