7 (Expanded Edition)

The 2023 “Madness 7 (Expanded Edition)” is a thoughtfully curated reissue of Madness’s third studio album, 7, originally released in 1981. Arriving on April 14, 2023, this new edition reintroduces the album in a 2CD format, blending original tracks with a carefully selected assortment of twelve bonus recordings. These include B-sides, live performances, and alternate versions that deepen the listener’s appreciation of the band’s evolution during a pivotal era in their career.

When 7 first landed in 1981, it marked a turning point for Madness. Known initially for their upbeat ska-infused pop and eccentric energy, the band used this third album to explore more nuanced and introspective musical themes. Tracks like “Grey Day,” “Cardiac Arrest,” and “Shut Up” reflect this shift, offering darker, more mature subject matter while maintaining the rhythmic drive that made Madness such a distinct force in British pop. The album was recorded at the Air Montserrat studio in Nassau, a facility owned by famed Beatles producer George Martin. This provided an upgrade in recording quality, with the sound feeling more expansive and polished compared to their earlier work. 7 ultimately climbed to #5 on the UK Albums Chart, cementing Madness’s place in the pantheon of iconic British bands.

Fast forward more than four decades, the 2023 Expanded Edition of 7 emerges not simply as a nostalgic reprint, but as a comprehensive retrospective enriched with previously unavailable content. The first CD retains the original album in full, remastered with crisp clarity. The second CD is where the reissue truly shines. It brings together bonus material that includes rare B-sides and live recordings, most notably sessions recorded for the BBC under the guidance of DJ Richard Skinner. These live tracks are a significant inclusion, offering fans a raw, unfiltered experience of Madness’s energy in a live setting from that era—something that had largely gone undocumented in official releases until now.

One of the more celebrated elements of this reissue is the 24-page color booklet housed in the digisleeve packaging. It contains lyrics, previously unseen photographs, and detailed liner notes written by journalist Stevie Chick. These notes feature interviews with several band members including Lee ‘Kix’ Thompson, Mike Barson, and Chrissyboy Foreman, offering first-hand insights into the making of 7 and the creative direction the band was exploring at the time. This behind-the-scenes commentary adds an intimate layer to the listening experience, bridging the gap between the listener and the creative process behind the album.

The expanded edition has been widely distributed across platforms like the official Madness album store, Amazon, and AllMusic, making it accessible to both collectors and casual fans. While formal reviews remain limited, early responses from fan forums and customer feedback on retail sites highlight enthusiasm for the raw, unpolished charm of the live tracks. A particular comment on Amazon mentions the live version of “Grey Day” sounding like an unmastered acetate, praising its authenticity and atmospheric grit.

In comparison to other Madness reissues, such as the expanded release of Theatre of the Absurd Presents C’est La Vie, the 7 (Expanded Edition) feels more grounded in the band’s foundational years. While both editions share a similar format—bonus discs, expanded liner notes, and deluxe packaging—the 2023 edition of 7 emphasizes the importance of this album in capturing Madness at a creative crossroads. It portrays the band straddling the line between their early zaniness and the more reflective tone that would characterize their later work.

Ultimately, Madness 7 (Expanded Edition) serves as both a historical document and a collector’s gem. It brings forward not only the original brilliance of the 1981 release but also enriches it with rare recordings and personal stories that enhance the album’s legacy. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer curious about the roots of British ska-pop, this reissue stands as a testament to Madness’s enduring influence and musical depth.