In the early 80s Billy Bragg built a reputation as a fiery socialist troubadour, just one man and his guitar, recording two critically acclaimed albums and playing benefit gigs for striking miners and supporting the Red Wedge tour during the ‘83 elections. For this difficult third album (which was the working title for a while) he moved away from his earlier raw sound, bringing in other musicians and backing singers, with fuller production. Would this be his ‘Dylan Goes Electric’ moment?
Well, it actually works! He still has the same vocal style, ranging from plaintive wails to strident anger (which is fair to say is an acquired taste), but the extra elements really add to and complement his songs. The first single Levi Stubbs’ Tears from this album marks the transition in style, with a powerful song about domestic violence that is heightened by a single trumpet picking up the melody at the end.
Other songs cover familiar topics for Bragg - the humdrum reality of life in 80s Tory Britain, forthright political commentary and wistful songs of love and romance and marriage. To be honest, I still just about prefer Life’s A Riot With Spy vs Spy but this album can stand alongside the earlier work as a solid start to a discography.
https://album.link/gb/i/1169782262
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