| The cycle of producing an album began again in 1998, with Paul finishing lyrics in February. In a change from the norm, Dave Rotheray had already mapped out the melodies with the rest of the band before hearing the lyrics, perhaps explaining the very different sound of 'Quench' compared to their previous work. Recording began in early Summer. Ex-Housemartin Norman Cook was brought in as 'rhythm consultant' and gave the album a more modern sound than its predecessors. This was reflected in the success of the first single, 'Perfect 10', released in September. It went in at Number 2, their highest chart position in 8 years. 'Quench' was released later that year and gave the band another No. 1 album. Further singles followed, and a Brit nomination for 'Best British Band' in 1999. 'Last Orders At The Liar's Bar', the band's biography, was published later that year. A minor upset occured when the band were sued for using the album cover for 'Quench' on promotional items, something the artist, Peter Howson, had not agreed to. Various tours continued for the rest of the year. |
