Released on Chrysalis/Sire in 1989, the album was the band's first to feature David Newton as the primary songwriter, as co-writer and bassist Tony Linehan quit early during the recording sessions.

[1] Singer Paul Marsh credited Williams for bringing a fresh approach to the band which helped result in the poppier direction evident on Laughter, which features a horn section, layered guitars, and a live sound.

[6] Dave Schulps and Ira Robbins of Trouser Press called Laughter "an altogether great album which remains by far the band's best" and compared it to the "psychedelically tinged pop joy of Stone Roses' debut, released in the same year".

[7] Robin Reinhardt of Spin said Laughter combines the "raw energy of Happy Head with the fuller, tighter sounds of World Without End".

[8] Reviews from the British press were generally less positive, however, leading the band to concentrate its promotion efforts in the U.S., including a 70-date concert tour with labelmates The Ocean Blue and John Wesley Harding.