Artist: Angelic Upstarts Album: We Gotta Get Out of This Place

Year: 1980
Duration: 0:0-1

We Gotta Get Out of This Place by Angelic Upstarts: A

If you're a fan of punk rock and haven't listened to Angelic Upstarts, you're missing out on some of the most innovative and game-changing music of the genre. The band was formed in 1977 in South Shields, England, and quickly gained a following for their politically charged lyrics and raw sound. Their second album, We Gotta Get Out of This Place, was released in 1980 and is still considered a classic today. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the album, the best songs, and what makes it stand out from the rest.
Firstly, it's important to note that We Gotta Get Out of This Place is an album that perfectly encapsulates the social and political climate of its time. The lyrics are unapologetically political, addressing topics such as unemployment, police brutality, and racism. This is evident from the opening track Never 'Ad Nothin', where lead singer Mensi sings about the frustration of being working-class and ignored by the government. Police Oppression is another standout track that shows the band's anger towards the police's cruel treatment of civilians.
Musically, the album is fast-paced and filled with energy. The guitars are loud and in-your-face, and the drums provide a solid foundation that never wavers. The basslines are often overlooked, but they add a distinct rhythm to the songs that make them stand out. The instrumentation is simple but effective, and it's difficult not to feel energized when listening to the album.
The standout tracks of the album are undoubtedly We Gotta Get Out of This Place and Woman in Disguise. The former is an anthem that speaks to the frustrations of the working class and encourages them to fight back against the system. The latter is a slower, more melodic song that shows the band's range and ability to write songs that are both political and heartfelt.
One of the most innovative parts of the album is the band's use of reggae and ska influences. This is most evident in the track Solidarity, which features a reggae-inspired rhythm that fits perfectly with the song's message of unity. This may have been a controversial move at the time, but it shows the band's willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles.
Despite the album's strengths, it's important to note that it's not perfect. Some of the tracks can feel repetitive, and the production can be a bit muddy at times. However, these flaws are minor in the grand scheme of things, and shouldn't detract from the overall quality of the album.
In conclusion, We Gotta Get Out of This Place by Angelic Upstarts is an important album that should be listened to by anyone interested in punk rock or political music. The album's lyrics are just as relevant today as they were in 1980, and the band's use of reggae and ska influences make it stand out from other punk albums of the time. While not perfect, it's a classic that deserves its place in music history.