Beat Crazy

I’ve always considered Joe Jackson’s lyrics to be anywhere between three days to three years ahead of their time. Jackson is a very talented musician whose songs are subtle commentaries on myriad social issues in contemporary society. He’s been nominated for five Grammys, but it’s the songs that don’t necessarily make it to pop success which are the most interesting to listen to. Classified under Power Pop/New Wave, this 1980 Joe Jackson Band offering opens up with a harrowing yell, but glides into all sorts of pleasing musical arrangements which feature his smooth piano playing and cutting lyrics. Songs that comment on issues are all over this album and include In Every Dream Home (A Nightmare), Battleground, Biology, Pretty Boys and Fit, just to name a few.