Happy Mondays are an English rock band formed in Salford, Greater Manchester, in 1980. Emerging during the post-punk era, they became one of the leading acts of the late 1980s and early 1990s Madchester scene, which fused alternative rock with acid house and dance music. The band was founded by frontman Shaun Ryder, his brother Paul Ryder on bass, guitarist Mark Day, drummer Gary Whelan, and keyboardist Paul Davis. Dancer and percussionist Mark "Bez" Berry later became an iconic part of the group with his wild stage presence. Their breakthrough came with the 1988 album "Bummed," produced by Martin Hannett, but it was their 1990 release, "Pills 'n' Thrills and Bellyaches," that solidified their status, featuring hits like "Step On" and "Kinky Afro." The album was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, capturing the hedonistic spirit of British youth culture at the time. Happy Mondays were signed to the influential Factory Records label, and their sound and image became emblematic of the Madchester movement alongside bands such as The Stone Roses and Inspiral Carpets. However, their chaotic lifestyle, drug use, and internal tensions contributed to the band's decline in the early 1990s. After several breakups and reunions over the years, Happy Mondays have continued to perform and tour, maintaining a loyal fan base and a lasting impact on British music history. They are often credited with helping to bridge the gap between indie rock and dance music, paving the way for future acts in the Britpop and electronic scenes.