The self-proclaimed fourth-best band in Hull came and went in what seemed a heartbeat, but they left behind some of the best jangle pop ever produced. Tonight, quite randomly, I have pulled out the 12" of the Housemartins ninth and final single. No, this is not the oft-covered Burt Bacharach and Hal David song made very famous in 1983 by Naked Eyes. Rather, this is the Paul Heaton and Stan Cullimore composition made somewhat less famous in 1988, peaking at No. 35 on the UK singles chart. Although it's pleasant enough, this is not my favorite from an otherwise flawless discography. In fact, the real reason I wanted this piece of vinyl was for the other songs that appear on it.
In addition to the single, there are three songs recorded live from Nottingham Royal Centre for the BBC's "In Concert" program, circa Sept. 30, 1987. The following songs are from the A-side. The 'London 0 Hull 4' goody "Get Up Off Our Knees" is performed with gusto and becomes a singalong for the pack of passionate fans. In case you're curious, the B-sides are "Five Get Over Excited" and "Johannesburg," which I'll post at some point. The studio versions of those songs can be found on the sophomore (and slightly underappreciated) album 'The People Who Grinned Themselves to Death.'
There is Always Something There to Remind Me
Get Up Off Our Knees (Live)
4 comments:
Excellent single from a great and sometimes unfairly overlooked band.
What a terrific band to spotlight. I was a fan back when they were first around, and definitely remember the unfair comparisons to the Smiths they received, based on but 2 things: the fact they used guitars, and the similar cover style. Lyrically, and musically, they really couldn't be more different. Both are great bands. Thanks, I'll have to go dig out my deluxe edition of London 0 Hull 4 now...
What a great live version of Get Up Off Our Knees. The fans certainly seemed to be really up for it.
Swede, E and Scott,
Thanks for your input. Means a lot. All of the work around London 0 Hull 4 is really special. As deluxe editions go, it's one of the best... beautifully put together.
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