Lovestruck

Record Store Day has always been a celebration of music, vinyl culture, and the artistry that goes into creating exclusive releases. In 2015, Madness took this concept to another level with a truly unique offering—one that combined rare music, visual artistry, and a nod to British heritage. Limited to just 1,000 copies worldwide, this special edition was far more than just a record; it was an immersive experience, featuring two previously unreleased-on-vinyl songs and a stunning 3D ‘Lovestruck’ Toy Theatre.

This one-of-a-kind package was not only a must-have for fans of Madness but also a prized collector’s item for vinyl enthusiasts and lovers of traditional toy theatre craftsmanship. Designed by Peter Quinnell and produced by the historic Benjamin Pollock’s Toy Shop, the toy theatre paid tribute to a long-lost form of storytelling, bringing the band’s theatrical energy to life in a whole new way. Madness has long been celebrated for their ability to craft songs that blend catchy melodies with sharp social commentary and humor. While they are best known for hits like Our House, Baggy Trousers, and It Must Be Love, their extensive discography includes a wealth of lesser-known but equally brilliant material.

This 2015 Record Store Day release featured two Madness songs that had never been released on vinyl before, offering fans a new way to experience these hidden gems. Given the warmth and authenticity of vinyl, this release allowed listeners to hear these tracks in their richest form—something that digital formats often fail to capture. While the exact tracklist was a closely guarded surprise leading up to the release, what was certain was that these songs were an essential addition to any Madness collection. Whether reflecting their signature upbeat ska-infused energy or exploring a more introspective side of their sound, these tracks added to the band’s already vast and colorful legacy.

What truly set this Record Store Day release apart was the 3D ‘Lovestruck’ Toy Theatre, an exquisite paper theatre included within the package. This wasn’t just an extra piece of artwork; it was a fully realized miniature theatre, designed with the same level of detail and craftsmanship that has been a part of British culture for centuries. Toy theatres have been a beloved part of British entertainment since the 19th century, offering children and adults alike a way to stage their own performances at home. The tradition has been kept alive by Benjamin Pollock’s Toy Shop, a historic London institution that has been producing handcrafted toy theatres for generations.

For this project, Madness collaborated with illustrator Peter Quinnell, whose artwork perfectly captured the spirit of the band and their theatrical sensibilities. His illustrations brought the world of ‘Lovestruck’ to life—a song that, despite being released in 1999, encapsulates everything fans love about Madness: humor, energy, and a bittersweet edge. The theatre itself was an interactive and display-worthy piece, allowing fans to construct and showcase their own Madness-inspired stage. It was a celebration of visual storytelling, blending the nostalgic charm of traditional paper theatres with the band’s unmistakable aesthetic.

Record Store Day has always been about more than just exclusive vinyl—it’s about celebrating music as an art form and highlighting the importance of independent record stores. Over the years, many artists have released special pressings, picture discs, and limited-edition box sets, but Madness went a step further with this multi-dimensional package. This release wasn’t just about music; it was about creating an experience. By incorporating the toy theatre, Madness gave fans something tangible and interactive, something that bridged the gap between music and visual art. It wasn’t just a record to be played—it was a piece to be displayed, assembled, and admired.

With only 1,000 copies available worldwide, this release was highly sought after from the moment it was announced. For those lucky enough to secure a copy, it became a cherished keepsake—a fusion of Madness’s playful spirit, British theatrical tradition, and the timeless appeal of vinyl collecting.