This Nation's Saving Grace

Performer Notes:

• The Fall includes: Mark E. Smith (vocals, guitar, violin); Simon Rogers (guitar, keyboards, bass); Brix Smith (guitar, background vocals); Craig Scanlon (guitar); Stephen Hanley (bass); Karl Burns (drums).
• Producers: John Leckie, Simon Rogers, Mark E. Smith.
• Personnel: Mark E. Smith (vocals, guitar, violin); Brix Smith (vocals, guitar); Simon Rogers (acoustic guitar, keyboards, bass guitar); Steve Hanley (bass guitar); Karl Burns (drums).
• Illustrators: Michael Pollard ; Claus Castenskiold.
• Photographer: Carole Segal.
• As stubbornly maverick as ever, the Fall's tenth album hinges on their now-accustomed dissonance, into which a tighter, commercial edge was introduced. New guitarist Brix Smith, wife of leader Mark E., added a partly melodious sheen that brought an air of 60s subculture to the group's post-industrial rattle. Nothing was sacrificed in the process and while "Bombast" hurtles with a vicious power, talismen Can were acknowledged in "I Am Damo Suzuki," the name of the German band's Japan-born singer. Mark Smith towers over the proceedings, his voice prowling about the music, enhancing its intensity. This album shows the Fall extending stylistic barriers without sacrificing their individuality.

Professional Reviews: Alternative Press (7/95, p.84) - Ranked #33 in AP's list of the `Top 99 Of '85-'95' - "...If it weren't for these blokes, it would be hard to imagine Pavement's charmed existence..."

The Wire (p.68) - "The songs are big and beaty and alterno-disco primed, subversively in sync with prevailing trends."

NME (Magazine) (10/2/93, p.29) - Ranked #95 in NME's list of the `Greatest Albums Of All Time.'

NME (Magazine) (9/25/93, p.19) - Ranked #22 in NME's list of the `50 Greatest Albums Of The '80s.'

Record Collector (magazine) (p.87) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "John Leckie's production feels well placed....The star here is the album....Exemplary work from all involved."

Uncut (magazine) (p.98) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "Here, in all their menacing, utilitarian finery, is arguably the band's strongest configuration..."

Format: CD (1 Disc); Stereo

Country: USA

Studio/Live: Studio

Release Date: 12 August, 1997

Label: Beggars Banquet

Dimensions: 12.7 x 1 x 14.2 centimeters (0.06 kg)