Album of the Day

Erasure hit the big time with THE INNOCENTS, and the British synth-pop duo made the most of that breakthrough with follow-up WILD!, released 30 years ago today. The 1989 Sire set was the group's second consecutive U.K. chart-topper, thanks to such irresistible singles as “Drama!,” “Blue Savannah,” “You Surround Me” and “Star.” Andy Bell and Vince Clarke worked with separate producers (Gareth Jones and Mark Saunders, respectively) on the vocal and instrumental parts, and the strategy paid off with inspired performances and inventive arrangements that demand repeated listening. Danceable, theatrical and filled with hooks, WILD! captures Erasure in peak form and remains a fan favorite.