Coming out in 2011, Happy Soup is arguably the moment Baxter Dury really found his groove. It’s his third album, and it’s where his signature style of deadpan, observational storytelling truly clicked into place. After spending some time figuring out his musical identity, this record feels like a breath of fresh air – a collection of songs that are as charming as they are slightly dishevelled.

The sound is delightfully lo-fi and breezy, leaning heavily into psychedelic indie-pop with a distinctively British edge. There’s a real sun-drenched, seaside feel to the production, even when the lyrics get a bit cynical or melancholic. It’s full of simple, driving basslines and bright, shimmering synths that provide the perfect backdrop for Baxter’s spoken-word delivery. The contrast between his gravelly voice and the sweet backing vocals is a stroke of genius that gives the whole thing a unique character.

You can’t talk about this album without mentioning “Claire” or the title track, “Happy soup”. They’ve got this effortless, laid-back cool that makes them perfect for a lazy afternoon. The songs feel like little vignettes – snapshots of awkward encounters and everyday life that are both funny and oddly touching. It’s the sort of music that doesn’t try too hard to impress you, which is exactly why it’s so easy to love.

It’s worth revisiting because there really isn’t anything else that sounds quite like it. It’s a very human record – honest, witty, and full of personality. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering him, Happy Soup remains a fantastic entry point into Baxter’s world. It’s an album that prioritises feel over flashiness, and it’s all the better for it.