"Taking the Rough With the Smooch" is the second album by Huggy Bear, a more musically assured and expansive follow-up to their debut. It captured the band at the height of their powers, blending punk ferocity with melodic introspection.
- The album was recorded at A.R.E. Sound Studios in London and produced by Marc Moreland. It was released on the influential indie label Wiiija Records. The album features a more diverse sonic palette than their previous work, incorporating elements of noise rock and pop.
- The album was not a major commercial success but is considered a significant release in the queercore and Riot Grrrl scenes. It received positive reviews from independent music publications at the time. The band toured extensively in support of the album, playing dates across the UK and Europe.
- The album's title is a play on the Bette Midler song "You Gotta Have Friends", suggesting a willingness to embrace both the difficult and the pleasant aspects of life and relationships. The song "He's Gone" from the album became a fan favorite and is often cited as a highlight. Huggy Bear disbanded in 1995, but their music continues to be celebrated for its raw honesty and feminist/queer-positive message.
Huggy Bear were a British band formed in 1991, part of the queercore movement. They were known for their energetic and politically charged live shows.
Tracklist
