The Sundays - Reading, Writing and Arithmetic [UK Import]

The Sundays only needed one debut to leave a lasting mark, and Reading, Writing and Arithmetic returns as a UK import on 140-gram black vinyl.

Released in 1990 on Rough Trade, the album introduced Harriet Wheeler's crystalline voice and David Gavurin's chiming guitar to a British indie scene still adjusting to life after The Smiths. Produced by the band with Ray Shulman, it arrived fully formed, every song written by the duo at its heart and delivered with a lightness that hid real bite.

"Here's Where the Story Ends" is the one everyone knows, a wistful single that sounds like a sunny afternoon tinged with regret. "Can't Be Sure", the band's first single, sets the template with its shimmering riff and wry lyric, while "Skin & Bones" opens the record with quiet confidence and "My Finest Hour" shows off Wheeler's gift for an unexpected turn of phrase.

Paul Brindley's bass and Patrick Hannan's drums keep everything light on its feet, giving Wheeler and Gavurin room to weave melody and texture. The result is jangly and gentle on the surface, with a sharp, observant wit running underneath.

The Sundays made only three albums, which makes each one precious, and this debut remains the purest distillation of their charm.