If you think Public Enemy or John Lennon were political, then you need to hear Chumbawamba. It’s too bad most people only know them as the group that sang about getting knocked down and getting up again, because Chumbawamba has something bigger up their sleeves. WYSIWYG may mean What You See Is What You Get, but this album’s message isn’t easily gathered without some deeper inspection.
The first track, “I’m With Stupid”, hits on a lot, from boy bands to Hollywood. Watch out because Chumbawamba is coming for you next. “Pass It Along” touches on our new cyber culture and how we’d rather make friends going only where our mouse takes us. Along with the serious undertones comes an absolutely beautiful arrangement and melody. The chorus builds like a gigantic Disney soundtrack. It’s devilish, but absolutely gorgeous.
“Hey Hey We’re The Junkies” breaks your knees as it guides you in with its angelic dress. This track is a message that’s not exactly new, but read the lyrics and see what’s going on outside of your neatly packaged life. This band doesn’t think small. Chumbawamba takes a ladder, climbs up Rupert Murdoch’s pant leg, and hits him where it hurts. This song is much more than just a little belly laugh. Another heavy hitter gets a beating as Charleton Heston gets shot in the ass on “Moses With A Gun”.
Chumbawamba pulls off a beautiful version of the Bee Gee’s “New York Mining Disaster 1941”. This track proves that they can do harmonies as well as anyone. “Jesus In Vegas” is more like the death in Vegas. “The Standing Still” has nailed Disney into its coffin.
The first single, “She’s Got All The Friends That Money Can Buy”, puts the snotty bitches we all love to hate in place. The track goes from pop to doo-wop. “Celebration, Florida” is the place where every old person goes to try to stay young. It’s an ugly face with a pretty smile.
The album rolls toward an ending with a rendition of “Lie Lie Lie” in a style reminiscient of The Mamas And The Papas. “Dumbing Down” closes with a title that sums up our culture perfectly. Chumbawamba puts a face on the faceless and throws open some doors that people would rather stay closed.
+ rae gun
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