The Blockheads: Staring Down The Barrel

The Blockheads 2009 (from left to right): John Turnbull (guitar), Gilad Atzmon (sax), Chaz Jankel (guitar, keyboards), Derek Hussey (vocals), Norman Watt-Roy (bass), Mick Gallagher (keyboards), and Dylan Howe (drums)
photo: Matt Kent

The Blockheads' new album is a pleasant surprise. Staring Down The Barrel is in touch with the times lyrically, the music is vintage Blockheads courtesy of founding member Chaz Jankel. Singer Derek Hussey took care of most of the words, singing about Greed and Dirty Money. He has a relaxed delivery, halfway speaking and singing, and the accent that might remind you of the lamented Ian Dury.

With Staring Down The Barrel The Blockheads proof that they are not a nostalgia act. They are angry old men now, but they want their audience to dance too, using their trademark inimitable funky ska. The credit crunch looms large, but these men have survived Maggie Thatcher. Try to knock them down and they are back on their feet before you can so much as blink your eyes.

Staring Down The Barrel is released via EMI. Release date: April 6th.

Tracks:

1. Roll Over
2. Greed
3. A Little Knowledge
4. George The Human Pigeon
5. No Go Central
6. Prophet of Doom
7. Hold Tight
8. Life In Your Hands
9. Dirty Money
10. Elegant Style

The Blockheads go on tour starting April 1st.

» theblockheads.com
» myspace.com/theblockheads