Some Friendly was the debut album that propelled British rock band The Charlatans into the spotlight. Released on October 8, 1990, it played a key role in defining the Madchester and baggy scenes of the early ’90s. To celebrate this iconic album, here are five fun facts you might not know about Some Friendly.
1. A Weekend of Inspiration
Did you know that Some Friendly’s standout tracks were written in just one weekend? While drummer Jon Brookes was on holiday, the rest of the band—Tim Burgess, Martin Blunt, John Baker, and Rob Collins—penned “Indian Rope,” “The Only One I Know,” and “Sproston Green.” Talk about creativity under pressure.
2. Recorded in a Makeshift Studio
The Charlatans recorded parts of Some Friendly at The Windings, a studio housed in a former coal mine storage area near Wrexham. Adding to the quirky vibe, lead vocalist Tim Burgess even recorded some of his vocals outside in the garden to capture a unique atmosphere.
3. A Psychedelic Influence
While Some Friendly is hailed for its acid-pop and baggy sound, one of its major influences was The Beatles’ psychedelic era. The band drew on the Fab Four’s experimental side, layering their songs with swirling Hammond organ riffs and trippy lyrics.
4. From Cigarettes to Chart Success
The melody for the band’s most famous track, “The Only One I Know,” came to Tim Burgess when he stepped out to buy cigarettes. He quickly recorded it on a dictaphone before it faded from his memory. The song went on to become an anthem of the Madchester scene and helped launch the band’s career.
5. A Rush to Finish
Some Friendly was recorded in a hurry, and the band admits they weren’t fully prepared. In fact, some of the songs, including “You’re Not Very Well” and “Opportunity,” were written during the recording sessions themselves. While Tim Burgess later expressed regret over the version of “Polar Bear” they ended up with, fans still embraced the raw and spontaneous energy that defined the album.
Some Friendly may have been created in a whirlwind, but its place in British rock history remains firmly cemented. From its iconic keyboard riffs to its danceable beats, this album continues to inspire fans over three decades later.
