From the bands roots in north London, through their emergence as part of 2-Tone and onto their late 80s fall and subsequent rise via the Madstock festivals, House of Fun celebrates a very British musical phenomenon.Formed in the heyday of punk, Madness were true originals who mixed ska and reggae rhythms with social comment and music hall humour to become a British group like no other. They were the most successful UK singles band of the Eighties, offering a larky down-to-earth take on Thatcher's Britain through hits like 'My Girl', 'One Step Beyond', 'House Of Fun' and 'Baggy Trousers'. Their appeal endures to this day, Madness' latter-day concerts having become fun-packed celebrations of one of the best-loved songbooks in British pop.

Like most bands Madness had their trials and tribulations, including band disputes, accusations of racism and an eventual split. But by then they had become a unique part of British pop history. John Reed tells their colourful story with a perceptive industry eye and the help of insights from many insiders and colleagues of the band.