Formed in Dundee, Scotland in 1979, The Associates were comprised of vocalist Billy Mackenzie and multi-instrumentalist Alan Rankine. Built on an eclectic mix of influences and interests ranging from art rock to glam and disco, the duo found early success with their debut record The Affectionate Punch in 1981. Their second studio album Sulk, released in 1982, was the group's definitive statement, a fascinating blend of lush, New Romantic popcraft and dark, surreal cabaret stylings. Upon its release, the album was voted the album of the year by Melody Maker. This limited edition 40th Anniversary Bookpack celebrates Sulk with the original album remastered on 140g Blue Vinyl and 3CDs featuring the original album, out-takes, monitor mixes, rarities, Peel sessions plus a previously unheard live show from Gigant in the Netherlands from 1981. The 12†Bookpack also features exclusive sleevenotes from journalist Simon Reynolds with interviews from Alan Rankine, Michael Dempsey, Mike Hedges & Martha Ludley plus previously unseen photography by Derek Reid, Tom Sheehan & Eveline Dröge. Sulk, Billy Mackenzie recalled before his death in 1997, “was a real liberation. It had the essence of what I’m about. I realized I could create my own sunshine.â€
