This 14-track visual ditty chronicles the often turbulent career of NMA on EMI. Fronted by the sober man's Shane McGowan Bradford's own answer to Californian dentistry, Justin Sullivan, NMA were -- and are -- a slap in the face of complacency, or, in a more specific musical sense, a bittersweet antidote to homogeneous corporates rock.
Opening with songs recorded live at the Marquee in 1985 ("Ambition," "Christian Militia," and the staunchly anti-drug "Heroin"), the band are seen during their most strident and and fractious phase. Thereafter some of their most memorable and defiant songs, like "51st State" and "Stupid Questions" appear.
This is combustible rock, infused with moralistic fibre. These videos are clear of the usual clutter and gimmicks, instead relying on simple urban images that serve as a reminder of the band's alter ego... By contrast, a song like "Purity" uses the great outdoors and the red glow of campfires -- a visual metaphor to evoke their yearning for a simpler, nobler time.
Stereotyped by many as grim Northerners, they are nonetheless charged with a rousing, strangely uplifting rush. Perhaps this video is best viewed in short sharp measures, but definitely recommended to their loyal followers.
Mark Liddell
Riff Raff
July 1992
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