THE RUTS - THE CRACK - FRANCE 12" LP VINYL Album

Album Description & Collectors information: 

In the world of punk rock history, certain albums stand out as seminal works that capture the essence of the genre and leave an indelible mark on music. One such record is The Ruts' 1979 release, "The Crack." This 12" LP vinyl album, made in France and released on FAME records, remains a testament to the band's raw energy, rebellious spirit, and musical brilliance.

To understand the significance of "The Crack," it is crucial to grasp the context in which The Ruts emerged. Formed in 1977, the band epitomized the punk rock movement's defiant ethos and political consciousness. Comprising Malcolm Owen on vocals, Paul Fox on guitar, John "Segs" Jennings on bass, and Dave Ruffy on drums, The Ruts possessed a unique blend of punk aggression, reggae influences, and socially conscious lyrics that set them apart from their peers.

"The Crack" is a sonic explosion that showcases The Ruts' impressive musicianship and experimental approach to punk rock. The album's opening track, "Babylon's Burning," immediately grabs the listener's attention with its urgent guitar riffs and Owen's commanding vocals. The song's infectious energy and anthemic chorus established it as an instant punk classic.

One of the defining features of "The Crack" is its socially conscious and thought-provoking lyrics. The Ruts tackled a range of pressing issues, including political unrest, societal alienation, and the struggles of everyday life.

Despite its initial commercial underperformance, "The Crack" has emerged as a highly influential album in punk rock history. The Ruts' ability to blend punk, reggae, and socially conscious lyrics paved the way for future bands like The Clash, Rancid, and Operation Ivy, who adopted similar musical and lyrical approaches.

The album's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. Over the years, "The Crack" has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is often regarded as one of the greatest punk albums of all time. Its impact on subsequent generations of musicians and fans solidifies its place in the pantheon of punk rock

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Album Production Information:

The album: "THE RUTS - The Crack" was produced by: Mick Glossop and the Ruts

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Mick Glossop

Album cover painter: John Howard

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Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: THE RUTS - The Crack

Band-members, Musicians and Performers
• Malcolm Owen - vocals
• Paul Fox - guitar, organ
• John "Segs" Jennings - bass, piano on "Jah War"
• Dave Ruffy - drums
• Richard Mannah - backing vocals on "S.U.S" & "Criminal Mind"
• Mick Glossop - synthesizer on "It Was Cold"
• Gary Barnacle - saxophone
• Luke Tunney - trumpet

Complete Track-listing of the album "THE RUTS - The Crack"

The detailed tracklist of this record "THE RUTS - The Crack" is:

Track-listing Side One:
1. "Babylon's Burning" 2:35
2. "Dope for Guns" 2:11
3. "S.U.S." 3:49
4. "Something That I Said" 3:53
5. "You're Just A…" 2:55
6. "It Was Cold" 6:48
7. "Savage Circle" 3:05
8. "Jah War" 6:55
9. "Criminal Mind" 1:34
10. "Backbiter" 3:02
11. "Out of Order" 1:50
12. "Human Punk" (live at The Marquee, London, 19 July 1979)