Angela Rippon - Crass
"Angela Rippon" is a track by the British anarcho-punk band Crass, released in 1979 on their album "The Feeding of the 5000". The song is a scathing critique of media manipulation and the role of television in perpetuating social control and conformity. The composition of the song is characterized by its aggressive and raw punk sound, with driving guitar riffs, pounding drums, and shouted vocals. The lyrics of "Angela Rippon" challenge the mainstream media's portrayal of reality and call into question the ethics of the media industry. One notable fact about the song is its direct reference to British television presenter Angela Rippon, who was a prominent figure in the media landscape at the time of the song's release. By using Rippon's name in the title, Crass draws attention to the power and influence of media personalities in shaping public perception and controlling the narrative. Overall, "Angela Rippon" is a powerful and confrontational punk anthem that serves as a potent reminder of the need to question authority and challenge the status quo. Its fierce energy and unapologetic lyrics make it a standout track in Crass's discography.
Crass
Crass was an English punk rock band formed in 1977, whose music and ethos played a pivotal role in shaping the punk movement in the UK. The band was founded by lead vocalist Steve Ignorant, guitarist and vocalist Penny Rimbaud, and vocalist Eve Libertine, among others. Crass rose to prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, with their music characterized by its raw, aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics. The band's music often addressed issues such as war, capitalism, consumerism, and social injustice, reflecting their anarchist and pacifist beliefs. Their debut album, "The Feeding of the 5000," released in 1978, was a manifesto of sorts for the band, showcasing their uncompromising stance on political and social issues. One of Crass's most notable achievements was the founding of their own record label, Crass Records, which enabled them to release their music independently and maintain complete creative control over their work. The band also made headlines for their DIY approach to producing and distributing their music, eschewing traditional music industry practices in favor of self-reliance and autonomy. Crass's impact on music extends beyond their musical output, as they were instrumental in popularizing the DIY punk ethos and inspiring a generation of musicians to challenge the status quo and use their music as a platform for social and political activism. The band's influence can be seen in the music of numerous punk and alternative rock bands that followed in their wake, as well as in the broader punk movement as a whole. Despite disbanding in 1984, Crass's legacy continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, as their music and message remain as relevant and powerful as ever. The band's uncompromising approach to music and activism has solidified their place as one of the most important and influential punk bands in history.