Gang of Four – Songs Of The Free

Name: Gang of Four Songs Of The Free | Buy it on B Side Vinyl
Brand: Gang Of Four
SKU: BSV-953682
Price: 36.45 USD
Availability: InStock

$36.45

Gang of Four was formed in Leeds in 1976 by bassist Dave Allen, drummer Hugo Burnham, guitarist Andy Gill, and singer Jon King. The band pioneered a style of music that inverted punk’s blunt and explosive energies – favoring tense rhythms, percussive guitars, and lyrics that traded in Marxist theory and situationism. They put every element of the traditional “Rock band” format to question, from notions of harmony and rhythm to presentation and performance. With this original lineup, the band released their first two hugely influential albums, ‘Entertainment’ and ‘Solid Gold’. Dave Allen departed the band, and Sara Lee joined to record their third album, ‘Songs Of the Free,’ where her added vocals no doubt helped propel them to a different level. The album includes “Call Me Up,” which is a live favorite, and their biggest “hit” – “I Love a Man In Uniform” which climbed the UK charts until the BBC decided to ban it during the Falklands War, presumably because it might be considered critical to the military. In the US, the song received a lot of airplay particularly from stations that saw it as a pro-military dance song. The dancefloors saw some action too… The album was recorded at Ridge Farm Studios in Surrey and co-produced by Jon Howlett, whose recent experiences recording bands like OMD and A Flock Of Seagulls may have helped with the album often being referred to as slightly less punk and a touch more new wave.

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Record Details

Label	MATADOR
Catalog No	OLE 1568
Format	Vinyl LP
Country	United States
Barcode	0191401156813
Condition	New / Sealed

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Description
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Gang Of Four Songs Of The Free vinyl captures the pioneering spirit of one of the UK’s most influential post-punk bands. Formed in Leeds in 1976, Gang of Four redefined musical expectations, pushing the boundaries of rock with their distinctive sound that combined tense rhythms, percussive guitars, and thought-provoking lyrics steeped in Marxist theory.

About the Album and Its Significance

Released as their third studio album, Songs Of The Free signifies a notable evolution in the band’s style with the introduction of bassist Sara Lee, who brought additional vocal dimensions that enhanced their complex sound. The record features standout tracks such as “I Love a Man In Uniform,” a song that not only gained popularity but also created controversy during the Falklands War, sparking debates regarding its political implications. Fans of the band recognize this work as a blend of their classic punk roots and a shift towards new wave influence, evident in its polished production at Ridge Farm Studios in Surrey. Its production by Jon Howlett, known for his work with bands such as OMD, helped create an album that appeals to both punk purists and new wave enthusiasts.

Details of This Pressing

This specific pressing of Gang Of Four Songs Of The Free vinyl comes on a high-quality LP format, released under the Matador label. Each copy is pressed with precision to maintain the clarity and intensity that the band is known for. As a collectible, this edition captures the original spirit of Gang of Four, making it a valuable addition to any serious vinyl collection. Vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate the rich sound quality that lends itself beautifully to the album’s intricate arrangements and biting lyrics.

Why Collectors Will Want This Copy

This edition of Gang Of Four Songs Of The Free vinyl not only represents an important chapter in the band’s history but also encapsulates a significant moment in music’s evolution. With its critical socio-political commentary, infectious grooves, and avant-garde sound, owning this record means championing a part of musical heritage that continues to influence artists across genres today. For collectors, this pressing stands as a testament to Gang of Four’s innovative spirit, and it offers an opportunity to appreciate how they brilliantly navigated and challenged the cultural landscape of their time.

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