A lucrative repackaging of a quality classic
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the formation of one of the UK's most influential sonic treasures, (and the signing of one of the most lucrative record deals in Polydor's history) – Universal brings you the digitally re-mastered, re-packaged, re-done and re-released 'Deluxe' edition of The Jam's 1980 album 'Sound Affects.' The release comes complete with 22 bonus tracks (8 previously un-released) including a cover of the Kinks 'Waterloo Sunset,' 'pop-art' cover design and 24-page booklet with exclusive Paul Weller interview and rare photos.
The Jam are a monumental, pioneering set-up who formed a crossroads in popular music history, contributing to the mod-revival movement of the late 70s, and fusing punk and popular 50s rock n roll in a way never seen before. They're also one of the jewels in Universal's crown - and this release is another cash-in on the legendary three-piece. Sure they won't be complaining, and neither will we if we're honest.
Everyone will know and love the band's first number one single 'Going Underground', and the staple classic 'That's Entertainment,' written by Weller in a caravan in Selsey after a heavy session in the pub, and subsequently covered by Morrissey. It was originally meant to be the B-side to lesser known 'Dreams of Children' – an equally solid track with spiky punk influenced guitar and a lyrically bleak look at the loss of childhood innocence.
Previously released when The Jam's popularity in the UK (and abroad) was at it's peak, 'Sound Affects' is considered The Jam's most experimental, wide-reaching record, drawing influences from post-punk, pop, classic rock n roll and a touch of 60s psychedelia. Wire, Gang Of Four, Joy Division and the Zombies are just some of the influences on the album. Paul Weller (front man and lead/rhythm guitarist – for you cave dwellers out there) considers it a cross between Micheal Jackson's 'Off the Wall' and the Beatles 'Revolver' ('Start!' shamelessly copies the bassline and guitar solos from the Beatles 'Taxman') and in 2010 Weller named the album as The Jam's 'best record...it still sounds fresh." The Jam made the sort of music that demands respect, the sort of music that will last forever.
Being from an industry background I might take a sneering look at a big corporation strategically squeezing profits out of an old deal – but in this case, they're benefiting the nation by releasing classic, musically significant tracks. Of course, this would make a great Christmas present for your Dad who goes all misty eyed in a mod-blazer, but this isn't just for the oldies – a re-release introduces a whole new generation to music that deserves attention. It's educational, evocative, and anything distracting the corps from working on some of the aural effluent they pump into our speakers everyday has got to be a good thing.