Hey, where's Rubeet? I know she's a huge SLF fan too.
I first picked up "Go For It" back in '81, not becuase I had heard their music, but because the picture of the band on the back cover looked cool, especially in '81 (ok, not the greatest reason for buying an album).
<img src="http://www.hellrot.org/slf/images/gopic.gif">
However, I was instantly blown away by their hard-edged punk energy. They combined the best of '77-era punk with reggae and other influences to become know as the Irish Clash. I see plenty of similarities and have a hard time understanding how any fan of the Clash would not love SLF too. Some similarities to the anthem-like music of the Alarm as well.
Their aggresssion was obviously fueled in large part by the ongoing sectarian violence in Northern Ireland. Case in point: "Tin Soldier", "Alternative Ulster", "Suspect Device" (I always get a kick when I hear the subway recordfing warn passengers about any suspect devices). I can only imagine the impact the sight of the the Royal Ulster Constabulary with their tanks and guns in the streets had on them.
Interesting change in gears for Bruce Foxton to go from the Jam to SLF, replacing Ali McMordie I believe. It is amazing to see Jake still has the energy to put on very entertaining live shows.
As far as songs, my favorites include:
Alternative Ulster
Tin Soldier
Barbed Wire Love (with the memorable line "Blasted by your booby traps")
Suspect Device
Nobody's Heros
Go For It (great punk instrumental)
Wait And See
Kicking Up A Racket
Fly the Flag
Roots Radicals
Their Greatest Hits Live is a classic for anyone looking to experience their energy (recorded back in '87). Every single song is kick ass.
Posted: Wed Jan 04, 2006 8:23 am