Album Info
| Artist: | Billy Bragg |
| Album: | Workers Playtime |
| Released: | Australia, 1988 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | She's Got A New Spell | 3:20 |
| Guitar [Danelectro Bellzouki 12 String] - Wiggy | ||
| Percussion - Tony Maronie | ||
| A2 | Must I Paint You A Picture | 5:28 |
| Organ [Hammond C3], Vocals [Additional] - Cara Tivey | ||
| A3 | Tender Comrade | 2:45 |
| A4 | The Price I Pay | 3:30 |
| A5 | Little Time Bomb | 2:12 |
| Trumpet, Flugelhorn - Dave Woodhead | ||
| A6 | Rotting On Remand | 3:33 |
| Guitar [Pedal Steel] - BJ Cole | ||
| B1 | Valentine's Day Is Over | 4:49 |
| Flugelhorn - Dave Woodhead | ||
| B2 | Life With The Lions | 3:01 |
| Guitar [Electric] - Martin Belmont | ||
| Harmonica - Barb Jungr | ||
| B3 | The Only One | 3:22 |
| Cello - Julia Palmer | ||
| B4 | The Short Answer | 4:53 |
| Acoustic Guitar [6-string, 12-string] - Kenny Jones | ||
| Bass, Triangle - Billy Bragg | ||
| Cello - Julia Palmer | ||
| Guitar [Slide] - Wiggy | ||
| Percussion - Tony Maronie | ||
| Viola - Theresa Pamplin | ||
| Violin - Camilla Brunt, Donna Welchman | ||
| B5 | Waiting For The Great Leap Forwards | 4:32 |
| Backing Vocals - Jayne Creamer, Kaya Jenner, Michelle Shocked, Porky , Wiggy | ||
| Guitar [Electric] - Martin Belmont |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Billy Bragg's "Workers Playtime," released on March 1, 1988, is a remarkable album that showcases the singer-songwriter's unique blend of folk, punk, and political commentary. This album marks a significant moment in Bragg's career, as it represents a shift towards a more polished sound while still retaining his signature lyrical depth and social consciousness.
Upon its release, "Workers Playtime" received a warm reception from critics and fans alike. Major publications like NME and The Guardian praised Bragg for his ability to weave personal narratives with broader social issues, a hallmark of his songwriting. The album is often noted for its exploration of working-class themes, love, and the struggles of everyday life, all delivered with Bragg's distinctive voice and acoustic guitar.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "She's Got a New Spell," which features a catchy melody and clever lyrics that reflect on the complexities of relationships. The song encapsulates Bragg's ability to blend the personal with the political, a theme that resonates throughout the album. Another notable track is "The Only One," which showcases Bragg's storytelling prowess and emotional depth, making it a fan favorite.
The production of "Workers Playtime" is particularly interesting, as it was produced by the renowned producer and musician, John Porter. This collaboration brought a more polished sound to Bragg's music, which some fans appreciated while others preferred his earlier, rawer recordings. The album features a mix of instrumentation, including electric guitars and keyboards, which adds a new dimension to Bragg's sound without overshadowing his poignant lyrics.
In terms of cultural significance, "Workers Playtime" is often seen as a reflection of the socio-political climate of the late 1980s in the UK. The album's themes of labor rights and social justice resonate with the struggles faced by the working class during that era, particularly in the wake of the miners' strike and the rise of neoliberal policies. Bragg's music has always been intertwined with activism, and this album is no exception, serving as a rallying cry for those who feel marginalized.
Interestingly, Bragg has mentioned in interviews that the album was inspired by his experiences and observations of the working class, as well as his own personal relationships. He often draws from real-life events and emotions, which adds authenticity to his work. This personal touch is what makes his music relatable and enduring.
"Workers Playtime" did not receive any major awards at the time of its release, but it has since been recognized as one of Bragg's essential works. It has been included in various lists of the best albums of the 1980s and continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. The album's legacy is evident in its influence on subsequent generations of musicians who admire Bragg's commitment to social issues and his ability to craft compelling songs.
Overall, "Workers Playtime" is a testament to Billy Bragg's artistry and his unwavering dedication to addressing the struggles of the working class through music. Its blend of catchy melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and social commentary makes it a standout album in his discography. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Bragg's music, this album is definitely worth a listen. It captures a moment in time while remaining relevant today, reminding us of the power of music to inspire change and reflect the human experience.