Gang Of Four – Solid Gold

Their sound was a kind of stripped-down mix of punk rock, funk and dub, with political texts that made the dire conditions in politics and social interaction a topic and became a style-forming element for the genre. With their second single "At Home He's A Tourist" they got into the UK Top 40, so they could have appeared on the charts TV show 'Top Of The Pops', but they refused to use the word 'Rubbers' ('Gummis') to remove from the text. In doing so, they more or less consciously forego the chance to reach a larger audience. They released a total of 9 studio albums in their career, plus some compilations and live albums.

Solid Gold was originally released in 1981 and was the band's second album. It is described in the AllMusic Guide as "Politically Charged, More Teutonic Take On Funk". At Pitchfork Media 'Solid Gold' is listed in the 'Best Albums Of The 1980s'.

"A dense, abrasive, and thrilling follow-up that sharpens their political edge and deepens the groove." — Pitchfork

"If Entertainment! was a Molotov cocktail, Solid Gold is a slow-burning fuse — darker, funkier, and just as essential." — The Quietus

"A brilliant evolution — more metallic, more brooding, and no less radical." — AllMusic

"Gang of Four perfected their blend of punk, funk, and fury on Solid Gold — it's confrontational and hypnotic in equal measure." — Mojo

"A post-punk juggernaut. Solid Gold remains one of the most intelligent and rhythmically inventive records of its era." — Uncut

AllMusic rating: