Artist: Angelic Upstarts Album: Reason Why?

Year: 1983
Duration: 1:02:25

Reason Why? A of Angelic Upstarts' Album

Angelic Upstarts is a British punk rock band formed in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, in 1977. The band was known for their explicitly political lyrics and anti-fascist stance. Their fourth studio album, Reason Why?, was released in 1983 and marked a departure from their punk roots to a more polished sound. In this post, we'll delve into a of Angelic Upstarts' Reason Why?, exploring the album's genre, standout tracks, and innovative moments while offering an overall critique of the album.
Reason Why? showcases Angelic Upstarts' move from punk rock to more polished sounds of rock, pop, and new wave. The album features sing-along choruses and anthemic lyrics that deal with social issues such as inequality and poverty. The opening track, Woman in Disguise, sets the tone for the album with its driving guitar riffs and charged vocals. This song, along with Lost and Found, was a breakthrough hit for the band in the UK charts, propelling the album to moderate success.
One of the most innovative parts of Reason Why? is the use of saxophone in several songs, most notably in Gonna Be a Star and Too Late to Turn Back. The saxophone adds a layer of richness to the songs, giving them a distinct sound that sets them apart from other similar bands of the era. Another standout track is Different Strokes, which features a catchy guitar riff and a sing-along chorus that sticks in your head long after the song has ended.
While Reason Why? has its share of standout tracks, it also suffers from a few weaker moments. The title track, Reason Why?, for example, comes across as repetitive, lacking the energy that the rest of the album possesses. Not Just a Name is another track that falls short, with its forgettable melody and unremarkable lyrics. Nevertheless, these weaker tracks are few and far between, and the album as a whole is a solid effort from the band.
Angelic Upstarts' Reason Why? is an important landmark in the band's discography, marking a departure from their punk roots and a move towards more polished sounds. The album features standout tracks such as Woman in Disguise and Different Strokes, showcasing the band's ability to write catchy and anthemic songs. The use of saxophone in several tracks is an innovative move that gives the songs a distinct sound. While the album suffers from a few weaker moments, these are overshadowed by the album's overall quality. In conclusion, Reason Why? is a must-listen for fans of Angelic Upstarts and anyone interested in the British punk rock scene of the early 80s.