One of Britain’s most iconic bands, Madness, have announced plans to re-release their big screen debut, the autobiographical Take It Or Leave It that reached cult status among fans. 32 years later, it is set to be released on October 7th with a DVD and an audio CD of the soundtrack, which will be officially released for the first time.
Take It Or Leave It was directed and produced by Dave Robinson, who was the head of the ska group’s original label Stiff Records. With Camden Town as the backdrop, the film illustrates the trials and tribulations of Madness’ early career, and it depicts the band’s rise from their humble beginnings as a pub band.
The film features live and studio recordings of hits from Madness’ first couple of albums, including Baggy Trousers, The Prince and One Step Beyond. There are only two songs on the soundtrack that are by other artists, namely Fats Domino and The Four Tops. Here is the full tracklist:
Don’t Quote Me On That
The Business
I’m Walkin’ (Fats Domino)
On The Beat Pete
Don’t Look Back
Reach Out I’ll Be There (The Four Tops)
Embarrassment
Mistakes
That’s The Way To Do It
Rocking In Ab
Day On The Town
Swan Lake
In The Middle Of The Night
Razor Blade Alley
Madness
Steppin’ Into Line
Night Boat To Cairo
Sign Of The Times
Solid Gone
One Step Beyond…
Bed & Breakfast Man
The Prince
Baggy Trousers
Grey Day
My Girl
Take It or Leave It