This 1984 single on Rough Trade represents a key moment in Scritti Politti's transition from post-punk experimenters to sophisticated sophisti-pop hitmakers. It captures Gartside at the height of his powers, crafting impeccably produced, chart-ready electronic soul.
- The single was produced by Arif Mardin, who had previously worked with artists like Chaka Khan and Queen.
- "Absolute" reached number 17 on the UK Singles Chart.
- The song was later included on Scritti Politti's 1985 album 'Cupid & Psyche 85', which became their most commercially successful release.
Scritti Politti was the project of Green Gartside, initially emerging from the post-punk scene in 1978 with a DIY, avant-garde approach. By 1984, the band had pivoted to a slicker, technologically-driven synth-pop sound, becoming pioneers of the style.
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