“I was twenty-one years when I wrote this song/ I’m twenty-two now, but I won’t be for long,” sang Billy Bragg in “A New England,” already aware of the constant change. That was 43 years ago and since then everything and nothing has changed. Everything: The Brit is no longer an angry folk punk, but has long since become a national cultural asset. Esteemed author, activist and also a kind of stand-up comedian on stage. Nothing: The force with which Bragg fights for freedom, solidarity and confidence is just as great as it was in 1983, when his debut, “Life’s A Riot With Spy Vs Spy”, was released.
No fillers, mostly killers
So forty years. They are now being celebrated. The 40 songs in the 3LP or 2CD set are well chosen, and Billy usually advises moderation and modesty, but here it’s time to go out on a limb: If you’re self-respecting, you obviously need the “Limited Edition 14 CD “Super Deluxe Box Set”! So the thing with more than 300 pieces. In addition to the dozen studio albums (no fillers, mostly killers), there is a lovingly designed photo book with many memories. The rarities are particularly exciting: alternative versions, demos and several EPs as bonuses, plus many live recordings, such as John Peel 1983, the “Fight Songs” compilation and the “Lockdown Live” sessions. The highlight for those who already have everything are the “Rare And Previously Unreleased Recordings 1987–2015” with esteemed colleagues such as KT Tunstall, Joe Henry, Kirsty MacColl and Pete Seeger.
Peter Buck, Michael Stipe and Mike Mills appear in three pieces – Bragg liked to visit REM in Athens, Georgia in the early 1990s. Two titles actually say everything about this man: He was the “Milkman Of Human Kindness”, but he is also “Mr Love & Justice” – his love songs are at least as touching as the protest songs. And this box set is basically like a Billy Bragg concert: you listen to what’s going wrong in the world, you suffer with him and your loved ones, and then you walk out with a knowing smile: nothing is lost yet.
SIMILAR REVIEWS
Joe Henry :: “All The Eye Can See”
Spirit incantations and hymns
James Yorkston, Nina Persson & The Second Hand Orchestra :: “The Great White Sea Eagle”
songwriter and pop chanteuse at sunset
Joe Henry :: Reverie
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