In 1978, during one of his many visits to the US, Stiff founder Dave Robinson met producer/writer Liam Sternberg who introduced him to the thriving alternative music scene in Akron Ohio. Stiff consequently released an Akron compilation (featuring a scratch ’n’ sniff sleeve – with the smell of tyres, naturally) featuring left-field acts such as The Waitresses, Jane Aire, The Bizarros. The album also featured 16 year-old R&B belter Rachel who impressed Robinson enough to sign her to a long term deal.Sweet was put in the studio with Sternberg and gaggle of session men and Stiff stalwarts, including members of Graham Parker’s Rumour. The result was ‘Fool Around’ a pumping album of good-time country/R&B/new wave listen to the singing and eat your heart out Joss Stone! Sweet joined the ‘Be Stiff’ package tour along with Wreckless Eric, Jona Lewie, Lene Lovich and Mickey Jupp.
