What makes Between the Wars by Billy Bragg notable?

The EP is notable for its political commentary, particularly with the title track and Which Side Are You On, which became anthems for labor rights and social movements. Its impact was felt in both music and activism, influencing subsequent artists within the folk-punk genre while also receiving positive reviews from influential publications like NME. Between the Wars marked Billy Bragg's emergence as a significant voice in the UK alternative rock scene following his debut album, Life's a Riot with Spy vs. Spy in 1983. Released in 1985, this EP saw him solidifying his political stance and musical identity, building on the critical acclaim gained from his earlier work.

How many songs are on Between the Wars?

Between the Wars has 4 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Between the Wars

Billy Bragg · 1985

9 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

Folk-punk anthems blend raw energy with poignant lyrics, addressing social justice and historical themes with Bragg's distinctive voice.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Between the Wars — This title track encapsulates Bragg's signature blend of personal narrative and political activism, making it a rallying cry for those disillusioned by societal struggles.
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Which Side Are You On — Bragg’s cover of this labor movement classic resonates deeply, calling for unity and action amidst class struggles, showcasing his commitment to social issues.
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World Turned Upside Down — This track reinterprets a historical protest song, linking past struggles to contemporary issues, emphasizing Bragg's ability to connect history with modern activism.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Billy Bragg's EP combines folk-punk energy with strong political themes, making it a notable entry in alternative rock.

What we noticed

The title track opens with a steady, driving rhythm that sets a tone of urgency, followed by the anthemic chorus that invites listener participation.
Each song features a prominent acoustic guitar riff, with Bragg's vocals layered prominently in the mix, emphasizing the lyrical content.
The EP maintains a consistent tempo throughout, with only slight variations in dynamics to highlight key lyrical moments.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Between the Wars 2:26
2 Which Side Are You On 2:30
3 World Turned Upside Down 2:31
4 It Says Here (different version) 2:31

What to play next

Listen next

Talking with the Taxman about Poetry

1986

Go back to

Brewing Up with Billy Bragg

1984

Full Billy Bragg discography Where to start with Billy Bragg Artists like Billy Bragg

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata