Levellers
Success hasn't spoiled the Levellers: This is the third album by the unkempt English quintet, and its political harangues are even more furious and focused than on earlier efforts. The album starts with a howling siren on "Warning," a critique on the war on drugs, and ends with "Bielaruse," an assessment of affairs in the East. The songs are filled with memorable hooks, invigorating rhythms, and inspired playing (especially the frenzied fiddle work), making the Levellers a lot more vital than other bands exploring a similar mix of Celtic, folk, and rock sounds. --Jim DeRogatis