Album Info
| Artist: | Various |
| Album: | The Secret Policeman's Other Ball (The Music) |
| Released: | Australia, 1982 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Sting - Roxanne | 3:06 |
| A2 | Sting - Message In A Bottle | 3:44 |
| A3 | Eric Clapton & Jeff Beck - 'Cause We've Ended As Lovers | 3:47 |
| A4 | Eric Clapton & Jeff Beck - Farther Up The Road | 4:46 |
| A5 | Eric Clapton & Jeff Beck - Crossroads | 4:15 |
| A6 | Bob Geldof & Johnny Fingers - I Don't Like Mondays | 4:54 |
| B1 | Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight | 5:10 |
| Acoustic Guitar, Banjo - Daryl Stuermer | ||
| B2 | Phil Collins - The Roof Is Leaking | 3:34 |
| Acoustic Guitar, Banjo - Daryl Stuermer | ||
| B3 | Donovan - The Universal Soldier | 3:00 |
| Double Bass - Donovan | ||
| B4 | Donovan - Catch The Wind | 2:32 |
| Double Bass - Donovan | ||
| B5 | The Secret Police - I Shall Be Released | 9:20 |
| Arranged By - John Altman, Sting | ||
| Choir - The Secret Police Choir | ||
| Drums - Simon Phillips | ||
| Horns - Digby Fairweather, Jeff Daly, Malcolm Griffiths, Mark Isham, Martin Drover, Mel Collins, Mike Henry, Paul Cosh |
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Description
The album "The Secret Policeman's Other Ball (The Music)" was released on November 1, 1981. This compilation album features a variety of artists and is tied to the famous charity event, The Secret Policeman's Ball, which was organized by Amnesty International to raise awareness and funds for human rights issues. The event and the album are significant not only for their musical contributions but also for their cultural impact during a time when human rights were a pressing global issue.
The album showcases a delightful mix of comedy and music, featuring performances from some of the biggest names in British entertainment at the time. Notable artists include Eric Clapton, who delivers a soulful rendition of "Cocaine," and the legendary Monty Python troupe, who contribute their unique brand of humor to the proceedings. The blend of comedy and music makes this album a unique listening experience, capturing the spirit of the early '80s.
One of the standout tracks is "The Ballad of Lucy Jordan" performed by Marianne Faithfull, which is hauntingly beautiful and showcases her distinctive voice. Another highlight is the collaboration between various artists on the track "I’m Not Like Everybody Else," which features a mix of rock and humor that perfectly encapsulates the ethos of the event. The album also includes contributions from the likes of The Who, with their energetic performance of "My Generation," which adds a classic rock flair to the compilation.
Critically, the album was well-received, with many reviewers praising its eclectic mix and the quality of the performances. Major publications like NME and Rolling Stone highlighted the album's ability to blend serious themes with entertainment, making it both enjoyable and thought-provoking. The album not only served as a soundtrack to the event but also as a reminder of the importance of activism and the role of art in social change.
The Secret Policeman's Other Ball itself was a landmark event, with its first performance in 1976 and subsequent shows raising significant funds for Amnesty International. The 1981 event featured a star-studded lineup, and the album captures the essence of that night. It was a time when many artists were using their platforms to speak out against injustice, and this album is a testament to that spirit.
Interestingly, the album also features a track by the comedian and musician Billy Connolly, who brings his unique storytelling style to the mix. His track adds a layer of humor that balances the more serious themes present in some of the other songs. This blend of comedy and music is a hallmark of the Secret Policeman's Ball series, making it a beloved part of British pop culture.
In terms of awards, while the album itself may not have won specific accolades, the event it represents has been recognized for its contributions to human rights advocacy. The Secret Policeman's Ball series has been influential in raising awareness and funds for various causes, and the music from these events continues to resonate with audiences today.
Overall, "The Secret Policeman's Other Ball (The Music)" is more than just a collection of songs; it is a cultural artifact that reflects a time of activism and artistic expression. The album serves as a reminder of the power of music and comedy to bring people together for a common cause. Whether you're a fan of rock, comedy, or simply interested in the history of human rights activism, this album is a delightful and meaningful addition to any music collection. Listening to it today can still evoke the same feelings of camaraderie and purpose that it did over four decades ago.
