Altsounds - The Housemartins - London 0 Hull 4 [Album]

The Housemartins were a band set in the 80’s. You may have heard of them but if you can’t quite place the band, as I couldn’t, then all is needed is a quick listen, and you will remember them instantly. If it isn’t the song “Happy Hour” that jogs your memory then it will definitely be lead singer Paul Heaton’s distinctive voice, after the Housemartins he became lead singer for the Beautiful South.

The Housemartins released their debut single in 1985, “Flag Day” and this is the first track on the much lauded album 'London 0 Hull 4'. The band came about in the North of England right around the time of the mining strikes. Flag Day didn’t reach huge chart success, No 124, but was “a cracking record” and probably one of the highlights of this album re-issue.

Punk music was in full swing in England at this time, and anti-establishment Punk bands were probably everywhere. Raging, screaming and generally being abusive, singing about the state of the “nation”. It was up to the Housemartins to give a voice to the disgruntled masses that did not want to scream and break things. The Housemartins did their complaining in a much more friendly, pleasant and charming way, with their alternative indie style and bouncy, happy music. Do not let the music fool you, their lyrics were as cutting as any. Just listen to Track Three “Anti-Establishment”….. “It’s a waste of time, if you know what they mean, try shaking a box in front of the queen. Cause her purse is fat and bursting at the seams, it’s a waste of time if you know what they mean”.

'London 0 Hull 4' is a re-issue of the Housemartins most successful record. It has been re-mastered and is issued as a two disc set. The second disc is a real gem, not only for Housemartin fans, but for anyone. It features numerous “B” sides, two original single versions, and no less than seven live recordings.

If anyone is a fan of Heatons voice then I urge you to get this album, Yes it may not be played the most, of your collection, but every time you do choose to give it a go, you will be surprised at ist uplifting nature.

Tracks like “Sitting on a Fence” and “Sheep” are still wonderfully current and contain some effective vocal harmonies, while other tracks like “We’re not Deep” and “Lean on Me” are just good songs borne from strong emotional ideas, backed up ably by good instrumentation.

This album, for Housemartin fans anyway has probably been snapped up already, and rightfully so. The sound of the Housemartins probably defined an era for some people. For others this type of sound is completely forgotten. The Housemartins are able to take sensitive, political, and emotive subject matter and sing about them in a manner that is “family friendly” as can be. Quite an effort.

I hope that these bands are remembered well into the 21st century. I also hope that other bands realise that to be heard you don’t always have to make so much noise.