Go for It cover

Go for It

Stiff Little Fingers · 1981

36 min · 10 tracks · punk rock

A vibrant blend of punk energy and reggae rhythms, reflecting youthful defiance and social commentary.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Roots, Radicals, Rockers and Reggae — This track exemplifies the band's signature fusion of punk and reggae, delivering an infectious rhythm while addressing cultural identity and roots.
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    Just Fade Away — The introspective lyrics reflect a sense of vulnerability amidst the bravado of punk, showcasing a more personal side of the band’s songwriting.
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    Kicking Up a Racket — This energetic anthem captures the band's rebellious spirit, featuring catchy hooks and an infectious chorus that encourages listeners to take action.
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    Safe as Houses — With its longer runtime, this track delves into deeper social commentary, combining melodic elements with poignant lyrics about societal expectations.
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    Piccadilly Circus — This closing track encapsulates urban life and the chaos of city living while maintaining a driving punk sound that leaves a lasting impression.

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

The album blends punk energy with reggae rhythms, showcasing strong songwriting and a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a fast-paced track that combines punk guitar riffs with reggae-inspired rhythms, setting a lively tone.
  • Several tracks feature call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the communal feel typical of punk and reggae influences.
  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo, allowing for more introspective lyrics and a reflective mood before concluding.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady energy for group settings
  • uplifting anthems for youthful spirit
  • engaging tracks for road trips
  • vibrant rhythms for active listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of slow, introspective music
  • prefer standalone tracks over albums

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'Go for It' was released in April 1981, Stiff Little Fingers were emerging as a significant voice in the UK punk scene, following their acclaimed debut 'Inflammable Material'. This album marked their third release, showcasing a maturation in sound while maintaining their politically charged lyrics that resonated with a generation disillusioned by societal issues.
Stylistic neighbors
The Clash· Sham 69· Buzzcocks

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Roots, Radicals, Rockers and Reggae 3:59
  • 2 Just Fade Away 3:05
  • 3 Go for It 3:17
  • 4 The Only One 4:18
  • 5 Hits and Misses 3:51
  • 6 Kicking Up a Racket 2:44
  • 7 Safe as Houses 5:29
  • 8 Gate 49 2:23
  • 9 Silver Lining 3:04
  • 10 Piccadilly Circus 4:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata