Q (album)

Q is the 1992 studio album by British alternative rock band James. It was their fourth album and followed their breakthrough album Gold Mother (1990). While Gold Mother propelled them to wider recognition, Q saw them experimenting with a more diverse and sometimes darker sound.

The album was produced by Stephen Hague, who had previously worked with New Order and Pet Shop Boys, a choice reflecting the band's desire to explore more electronic and dance-oriented influences. Q features a mix of upbeat tracks and introspective ballads.

Key tracks on Q include "Born of Frustration", which became a top 20 hit in the UK and remains one of James's most recognizable songs, and "Seven", a slower, more atmospheric track. While not achieving the same commercial success as Gold Mother, Q was well-received by critics and further cemented James's reputation as an innovative and eclectic band. The album title itself is enigmatic and has been the subject of speculation, with no definitive explanation offered by the band.