Design

★★★★ Design VACANCY.

CD

Another day in the sun for the heavenly British harmony poppers.

The liner notes of this 50thanniverary reissue of Design’s first album say they became “the most televised group in the UK, appearing with major stars such as Morecambe & Wise, Benny Hill, Tommy Cooper and The Two Ronnies.” The variety audience courted by the avowedly square Design was won over by their creamy harmonies, soaring melodies and often jazzy approach to songwriting. Effectively – the name is coincidental – they were the UK’s equivalent to America’s similarly feathery Free Design. 1971’s Design is their highpoint: a lovely shower of sumptuousness. Here, it’s bolstered by alternate versions and demos, including a preDesign track recorded for Apple publishing by band member Barry Alexander. Inessential post-Design tracks fill out the picture. One cut, from 2003, is produced by Sex Pistols soundman/producer Dave Goodman.