Head Sprout Paddy Mcaloon had a choice after making Two Wheels Good (known in England as Steve McQueen), Prefab Sprout's second, and most successful, album. Turn left and try to be more arch. Or turn right – the band was already on the verge of it – to slicker, more treacly arrangements. McAloon turned right, and the wheel nearly came off in his hands.

Like the Smiths, Prefab Sprout is...