Ace

The lyrics of a genius meet with the finest musicians. Now I remember what happened to my youth listening to this in my bedroom.

It was the most played record in my collection and now it will be the most played in my library. Add a lyrical genius to a top notch band playing infectious tunes and you get a work of art. The bonus live tracks give a flavour of what a great band they are live.

For all the lack of critical acclaim, this was Dury at his best. His wry wit and tongue in cheek humour allied with some great tunes. Ignore this at your peril !

Ian Dury at his absolute best. I bought this album (on tape) on the very day it came out and played it in my bedroom. I can still remember thinking how fabulous it sounded. The tape has long since gone, so listening to the CD was slightly nerve-wracking - would it sound just as good as I remembered?

And the answer is: Yes!

Some of these tracks are Dury at his absolute best - lyrically and musically, with the Blockheads on fine form and the piano to the fore.

Sink My Boats is head and shoulders above the rest, but Inbetweenies, Don't Ask Me and Uneasy Sunny Day are are stand-out tracks.

Of course you also get the fabulous singles - Waste, Hit Me and Reasons, some demos and some fabulous live stuff from New Boots and Panties - great value!