"It's Only Obvious" is the opening track on Lyceum, the debut album by Scottish indie pop band The Orchids. Released in August 1989 on the influential Sarah Records label, Lyceum was both the band's and the label's first album release. The Orchids, formed in Glasgow in 1985, became a key act in the late-80s/early-90s indie pop scene, known for their melodic, melancholic guitar pop sound123.
Album Context
- Lyceum was originally released as an 8-track, 10-inch mini-album on vinyl in 19892.
- The 2005 CD reissue included "It's Only Obvious" as the lead track and added early singles and rarities2.
- The album, and particularly "It's Only Obvious," received critical acclaim, with Melody Maker calling it "another fountainhead of unqualified greatness"2.
Musical Style and Themes
"It's Only Obvious" exemplifies The Orchids' early sound: jangly, melancholic guitars, gentle vocals, and introspective lyrics. The song is often cited as a classic example of the Sarah Records aesthetic—wistful, heartfelt, and understated123.
Legacy
- The track is frequently included in retrospectives and "best of" collections, such as Who Needs Tomorrow... A 30 Year Retrospective, underlining its enduring appeal among fans of indie pop and twee pop3.
- The Orchids' influence continues, with their early work (including "It's Only Obvious") seen as foundational for the indie pop genre13.
Band Lineup (circa "It's Only Obvious")
- James Hackett – vocals
- John Scally – guitar
- Chris Quinn – drums
- Matthew Drummond – guitar
- James Moody – bass
- Produced by Ian Carmichael, who also contributed keyboards1.
Key Facts Table
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Song Title | It's Only Obvious |
| Artist | The Orchids |
| Album | Lyceum (1989) |
| Label | Sarah Records |
| Genre | Indie pop, twee pop |
| Band Origin | Glasgow, Scotland |
| Notable Collection | Who Needs Tomorrow... (2017) |
"It's Only Obvious" stands as a touchstone of late-80s indie pop, capturing the wistful, melodic spirit that defined The Orchids and Sarah Records123.
