Children (The Mission album)

Children is the sixth studio album by the British gothic rock band The Mission, released in February 1992 on Vertigo Records. The album marked a departure from the band's signature sound, incorporating more acoustic elements and focusing on themes of childhood, loss, and disillusionment.

The album was produced by Hugh Jones, who had previously worked with Echo & the Bunnymen and The Charlatans. It features a variety of instrumentation, including acoustic guitars, strings, and piano, alongside the band's usual rock instrumentation. Wayne Hussey, the band's frontman, has described the album as being influenced by his own experiences as a father and reflecting on his own childhood.

Children spawned several singles, including "Neverland" and "Deliver Me." While the album did not achieve the same commercial success as some of their earlier work, it was generally well-received by critics and remains a fan favorite. Its introspective lyrics and melodic arrangements distinguish it from the band's more overtly gothic offerings. The album's themes address societal problems affecting children and a nostalgic look at lost innocence.

The album's artwork features imagery evocative of childhood, further emphasizing its thematic focus. It is considered a significant work in The Mission's discography, representing a period of artistic exploration and a willingness to evolve their sound.