Released in 1985, Steve McQueen (known as Two wheels good in the US) is a glowing example of intelligent, heartfelt pop. It was the band’s second album and saw them team up with producer Thomas Dolby, which turned out to be a match made in heaven. At a time when the charts were filled with booming drums and neon synths, Prefab Sprout offered something much more delicate and intricate. It’s an album that values songwriting above all else.

The sound is incredibly distinctive – airy, melodic, and layered with acoustic guitars and subtle electronic textures. Paddy McAloon’s songwriting is the star here; his lyrics are often cryptic and poetic, dealing with themes of regret, love, and the passage of time. It has a shimmering, summery vibe that can occasionally feel quite bittersweet. It’s pop music, but it’s pop music for people who like to dig a little deeper into the meaning behind the hooks.

“Appetite” is a perfect slice of mid-eighties guitar pop, while “When love breaks down” is perhaps their most famous moment – a gorgeous, melancholic ballad that still sounds incredible on the radio. “Goodbye Lucille #1” (often known as “Johnny Johnny”) is another highlight, showcasing the band’s ability to write a chorus that sticks in your head for days.

The reason Steve McQueen is still worth your time is that it feels so incredibly sincere. There’s a craftsmanship to the arrangements that makes it a joy to revisit, and it manages to be “clever” without ever being pretentious. It’s one of those albums that feels like a hidden treasure, even though it was a hit. If you love music that is thoughtful and beautifully put together, this is a record that you’ll keep coming back to.