I Do Like To Be B-Side The A-Side (Volume One)

Released on April 21, 2018, exclusively in the UK for Record Store Day (RSD), I Do Like To Be B-Side The A-Side (Volume One) is a compilation album by British band Madness. This limited edition vinyl collection gathers B-sides from the band’s early singles, offering fans a deeper dive into their formative years from 1979 to 1982. A long-awaited release for devoted fans, the album is the first in a series highlighting the band’s lesser-known tracks that originally accompanied their hit singles.

Record Store Day, established in 2008, celebrates independent record stores and the culture of vinyl records. For years, Madness fans had expressed a desire for a compilation of the band’s B-sides, recognizing their significance in the group’s discography. In response, Madness released Volume One in 2018, followed by additional volumes in 2021 and 2023. These compilations highlight the band’s versatility and evolution, presenting songs that may have been overshadowed by their A-side counterparts yet remain crucial to their artistic identity.

Spanning their first 11 singles, Volume One showcases a selection of tracks that highlight the band’s deep-rooted ska and pop influences. Songs like “Mistakes” and “Crying Shame” embody the high-energy sound and humor that defined Madness, while others, such as “Shadow on the House”, present a more reflective, melodic side. These tracks offer an authentic glimpse into Madness’s creative process, showing the range of their musical experimentation outside the mainstream hits.

Pressed on 180g heavyweight black vinyl, the album is designed to appeal to audiophiles and collectors alike. Its packaging, created by long-time Madness collaborator Paul Agar, features a surreal black-and-white image of the band on a diving board at a 1950s-style holiday camp, perfectly capturing the group’s eccentric and playful aesthetic. The design complements the album’s nostalgic feel, emphasizing the era when these tracks were first released.

Despite its comprehensive nature, the compilation notably omits certain B-side tracks from the Night Boat to Cairo single, which appeared on the Work Rest & Play EP. These exclusions have sparked discussion among fans, with speculation ranging from licensing issues to artistic choices. Nevertheless, the album remains an essential addition to Madness’s catalog, preserving the energy and creativity of their lesser-known songs.

Since its release, I Do Like To Be B-Side The A-Side (Volume One) has become a sought-after collector’s item. Given its limited pressing for Record Store Day, original copies have appreciated in value, with fans eager to own this piece of Madness history. The enthusiasm for the album reaffirms the band’s lasting impact and the importance of B-sides in showcasing a group’s artistic depth.

Following the success of Volume One, Madness released Volume Two in 2021, continuing the journey with more hidden gems from their next set of singles. In 2023, Volume Three extended the series, covering B-sides from later years, including tracks from 1999 to 2009. Each volume has been warmly received, proving that even the lesser-heard aspects of Madness’s discography hold significant value for fans and collectors.

Ultimately, I Do Like To Be B-Side The A-Side (Volume One) serves as more than just a collection of rarities—it’s a tribute to Madness’s musical legacy. By bringing these lesser-known tracks to the forefront, the album invites both long-time fans and new listeners to experience the depth of their sound beyond the radio-friendly hits. This compilation not only celebrates the art of the B-side but also cements Madness’s place in music history, highlighting the charm, wit, and enduring appeal that have defined their career.