2xLP
2020 UK limited edition remastered, heavyweight vinyl, gatefold sleeve
Recorded in Scotland between 1988 and 1989, during a period of personnel changes within the band, Street Fighting Years was a departure from the band’s previous sound. While still maintaining the Arena Rock sound the band were known for, they moved away from the Soul influences on the previous records and embraced a new Celtic/Folk sound. The lyrics built on the more political themes which the band had introduced with “Ghost Dancing”, covering topics such as the poll taxand the Irish ‘Troubles’, and political activists including Nelson Mandela and Steven Biko.
The album became the band’s fourth successive number one album in the UK. It was released on the back of the chart-topping single “Belfast Child”, which was released three months earlier and had reached number one in the singles chart.
Track Listing –
SIDE ONE
1. Street Fighting Years
2. Soul Crying Out
3. Wall of Love
SIDE TWO
1. This Is Your Land
2. Take A Step Back
3. Kick It In
SIDE THREE
1. Let It All Come Down
2. Mandela Day
3. Belfast Child
SIDE FOUR
1. Biko
2. When Spirits Rise