After finding moderate success with his self-produced solo effort Ultra Vivid Scene, Kurt Ralske returned to the studio in November 1989 to record a follow-up.

This time, Ralske brought in producer Hugh Jones, who had previously worked with Echo & the Bunnymen, Modern English, and The Damned, and a handful of session musicians.

[1] Upon completion of the album, Ralske recruited a full band consisting of Collin Rae on guitar, Byron Guthrie on drums, and Josephine Wiggs on bass, allowing Ultra Vivid Scene to go on tour for the first time in the spring of 1990.

"[5] In the Telegram & Gazette, Craig Semon wrote "Even though consistency and clarity are not the band's strong points, Ralske and his bandmates deliver an interesting if not well-wrapped package in 'Joy 1967-1990.

'"[6] Allmusic praised "the gossamer web of acoustic and electronic instruments and Ralske's knack for melodies" but found fault with the "dopey lyrics".