Stiff Little Fingers - Inflammable Material

This deeply political product of the punk rock era sets itself apart from similar fare by The Clash with lyrical content that contrasts with the punkish rage of the music. Anti-violence is the main topic of the album, delivered by lead singer Jake Burns' frothing delivery. The Irish band's music doesn't mire itself in the politics of the region, striving for a more universal approach that keeps the music relevant several years later. "Suspect Device" preaches skepticism of all information sources, for example, and while "White Noise" is centered on British politics, its racial politics won't find themselves dated any time soon. But enough politics - the album's music occasionally can bleed one song into the next, and it could be argued that the topical and sonic unity can feel rather monotone. The playing is superb, however, foregoing subtlety for sheer brute force. A compulsively listenable minor punk classic.