Tom Robinson's 1984 album "War Baby - Hope & Glory" marks a significant comeback for the British musician, following a period of personal and professional challenges. Produced by Robin Millar and Tom Robinson himself, this album is a powerful blend of new wave and post-punk sounds, reflecting the political and social tensions of the time.
The album opens with "Murder At The End Of The Day," setting a tone of urgency and intensity that carries through tracks like "Prison" and "War Baby." The latter, a solo hit, captures the emotional anxieties of unrequited love against the backdrop of global tension and the threat of nuclear destruction. "Atmospherics: Listen To The Radio" is another standout track, showcasing Robinson's ability to blend personal narratives with broader social commentary.
"Hope And Glory" offers a mix of introspective and politically charged songs, with tracks like "Old Friend" and "Looking For A Bonfire" delving into personal relationships and societal issues. The album also includes instrumental pieces like "Hell Yes" and alternative versions of several tracks, providing a comprehensive look at Robinson's creative process.
Originally released on RCA Records, "War Baby - Hope & Glory" has been praised for its raw energy and lyrical depth. The album's themes of love, war, and personal struggle resonate strongly, making it a timeless piece in Tom Robinson's discography. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, this album is a compelling exploration of one of the 1980s' most dynamic artists.
1984 Leporine Ltd1984 Leporine Ltd
Tracks
Murder At The End Of The DayTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Martin Ditcham, Felix Krish, Pete Glennister, Robin Millar, Danny Shogga, Peter Acock
PrisonTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, The Voice Squad, Martin Ditcham, Felix Krish, Pete Glennister, Robin Millar, Danny Shogga, Peter Acock
Ricky Don't Lose That NumberTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Martin Ditcham, Felix Krish, Pete Glennister, Danny Shogga, Peter Acock
Looking For A BonfireTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, The Voice Squad, Martin Ditcham, Felix Krish, Pete Glennister, Robin Millar, Danny Shogga, Peter Acock
Old FriendTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Martin Ditcham, Felix Krish, Pete Glennister, Danny Shogga, Peter Acock, David H. Smith
War BabyTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Sean Mayes, Simon Skinner, Danny Kustow, Mark Ramsden, Deezal Martin
Atmospherics: Listen To The RadioTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Marsha Hunt, Martin Ditcham, Pat Davey, Paul Harvey, Ian Ballamy, Guy Barker
Cabin BoyTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, The Voice Squad, Martin Ditcham, Pat Davey, Paul Harvey, Rabbit Bundrick, Sean Mayes, Mark Ramsden, Paul Jones
Blond And BlueTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Martin Ditcham, Felix Krish, Pete Glennister, Danny Shogga, Peter Acock
Hope And GloryTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Felix Krish, Pete Glennister, Danny Shogga, Peter Acock, Guy Barker
Back In The Old CountryTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, The Voice Squad, Martin Ditcham, Pat Davey, Paul Harvey, Rabbit Bundrick, Sean Mayes, Mark Ramsden
Hell Yes (Instrumental)Tom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Glynn Wood, Sean Mayes, Mark Ramsden, Paul Jones
BeggingTom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Sean Mayes, Mark Ramsden
More Lives Than OneTom Robinson, Kendall Wrightson
Blond And Blue (Alternative Version)Tom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Martin Ditcham, Adiran Legg, Rabbit Bundrick, Mark Ramsden
Prison (1985 Single Version)Tom Robinson, The Voice Squad, David Motion, Colin Baldry, David Moton, Peter Acock
Looking For A Bonfire (Alternative Version)Tom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Martin Ditcham, Pat Davey, Paul Harvey
War Baby (12' Version)Tom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Ebo Ross, Sean Mayes, Pat Davey, Paul Harvey, Mark Ramsden, Deezal Martin
Atmospherics: Listen To The Radio (12' Version)Tom Robinson, Steve Laurie, Marsha Hunt, Martin Ditcham, Pat Davey, Paul Harvey, Ian Ballamy, Guy Barker