From the bands roots in north London, through their emergence as part of 2-Tone and onto their late 80s fall and subsequent rise via the Madstock festivals, House of Fun celebrates a very British musical phenomenon.Formed in the heyday of punk, Madness were true originals who mixed ska and reggae rhythms with social comment and music hall humour to become a British group like no other. They were the most successful UK singles band of the Eighties, offering a larky down-to-earth take on Thatcher's Britain through hits like 'My Girl', 'One Step Beyond', 'House Of Fun' and 'Baggy Trousers'. Their appeal endures to this day, Madness' latter-day concerts having become fun-packed celebrations of one of the best-loved songbooks in British pop. Like most bands Madness had their trials and tribulations, including band disputes, accusations of racism and an eventual split. But by then they had become a unique part of British pop history. John Reed tells their colourful story with a perceptive industry eye and the help of insights from many insiders and colleagues of the band.

Now, finally, the band have got the book they deserve.' Mojo 'The most comprehensive Madness book available' Q

John Reed wrote for Record Collector magazine before working in the record industry. He is the author of the best-selling Paul Weller biography, My Ever Changing Moods. He lives in Manchester.