5 / 10
OK, so it doesn't leave you particularly moved. It invokes scant anger. It's
as corny and flaky as corn flakes. But, admit it, the world would be a less
sane, safe place without the latter day musings of seasoned pinko
storyteller Billy Bragg. Although not a patch on 2000's Woody Guthrie
tribute sessions, 'England...' at least manages to gently steer us away from
the utter folly of rigid national identity. But the irony is that Bragg and The Blokes'
delivery sounds just as dated as the social traditions they lampoon.
We're now faced with the ludicrous predicament of receiving our radical
infotainment via a middle-aged people's crooner laying good intentions
on thick with titles like 'Take Down The Union Jack' and 'No Power
Without Accountability', while the music is a symptom of deep-rooted
passion outstripping relevance. Come on, kids, start blazing new leftist
trails so the Billy boys can retire gracefully. NOW!
Darren Johns
10
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