Named for a dissident quartet of Chinese Communist Party leaders charged with treason during the Cultural Revolution of the late ’60s, the British musical foursome of the same name seemed every bit as dangerous during London’s punk revolution 10 years later. With a nervous, skittery sound that resembled ball bearings being dropped on a marble staircase and left-wing lyrics that could have come from a tattered poster of the Lenin/Trotsky era, Gang Of Four captured the minds of those who ignored John Lennon’s advice about “carrying pictures of Chairman Mao” with sizzling anthems like “Damaged Goods” and “At Home He’s A Tourist.” On January 15, Gang Of Four will release Content (Yep Roc), its first new music in 16 years. Download album track “Never Pay For The Farm” below.
“Never Pay For The Farm” (download):
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One Comment
Guess these guys are less dangerous today. Heard one of their classic songs used in an Xbox 360 commercial last night. Amazing how some sell out their art, despite apparent convictions contained therein. One of the last bands I would have expected to do this.
(Although perhaps they are big gamers?)