Critics Roundup 1984

Even with the explosion of F.G.T.H. 1984 saw the rebirth of ‘the song’ (and songwriting) and the return of rock’s most rudimentary and potent instrument, the guitar. The Smiths, Aztec Camera and Prefab Sprout along with the Godfather Elvis Costello were only marginally outshone by the magnificent chimming guitar and opaque lyrics of R.E.M., Violent Femmes, Lets Active, The Long Ryders and Jason And The Scorchers also proved that while the British may have the monopoly on the plastic smile the American heart is beating. With more fire and energy than ever before.

Singlewise Ireland can be particularly proud. Those Nervous Animals, Toy With Rhythm, Auto Da Fe, In Tua Nua, Golden Horde, Quarterdeck and Purple Hearse all released singles that made radio listening a little more enjoyable. Elsewhere Lloyd Cole, Blue Nile, Van halen, Kane Gang, Tyrone Taylor, Working Week and Tom Robinson, all contributed to a year of above average 45’s.

R.E.M., Billy Bragg, Moving Hearts, Costello (solo) Dionne Warwick, and Bob Dylan provided the visiting highlights of the concert season, while locally, Light A Big Fire, Something Happens, The Commotion and The Golden Horde proved that there’s no lack of talent around.

My hop for ‘85? A workable gig circuit throughout the country for Irish and middle status foreign bands.