The Original. Review on Weapon Called the Word - The Levellers

This is the original Levellers album, back when I was young and cool and no-one else had heard of them! Albums have come and go since, but this one is a particular favourite. I know I say that about anything they produce, but each Levellers album is different, and reserves a particular place in your heart. This is less hard rock than the others, so is my favourite slow album.

Imagine a cross between punk and folk, and you still can't imagine what the Levellers sound like. They have a sound that you can't describe, but once you have heard it, you will immediately know what I am talking about.

Like all the other albums, the songs are about important issues that we all should be worrying about, but if you don't like to worry about these issues, the songs can carry themselves. It is not just about the lyrics, the whole package is so excellent that you can ignore the words and still enjoy yourself!

However, for those that care,

''shoot to kill,

till both sides have their fill,

till both sides have their martyrs,

and all the kids have no fathers'' (Barrel of the Gun)

is an example of what you hear if you stop dancing and listen to what they are saying.

''I tell you its disinformation,

that keeps us all in our station'' (I Have No Answers)

It sounds corny when you read it like that, but put a strong tune behind it and you'll find yourself believing every word!

However, whichever way you choose to see them, the Levellers are brilliant. Telling it like it is, or just good artists that can play a powerful tune and get everyone dancing, the Levellers are worth a listen.