VENGEANCE

New Model Army are angels, forever harping on, Socially "aware" (without the lentils) men of passion and concern they throw everything into their post/punk cauldron and should singe the edges of the charts with this, for while their singles were often soiled nappies this mini-album represents their first pair of long trousers. And they wear them well.

Their kick, splutter and stylish prowl makes the wrathful detonation, when it comes, all the move invigorating. Their subject matter might be easily stifled in a basket but it's meant to prickle, it's there to bolster your resolve. Bands can ensure you never give in and these days we need all the help we can get.

So, accept a scroll New Model Army and release the remarkable, much talked about "Vengeance" as a single because that's a single because that's a classic angry song. Who but a Longford can hear that and say they wouldn't flip the switch given half the chance? Led as ever, by one of the finest bass players in the land (and I mean among the top five at least, despite his hat), they thrive on the sinuous style to pour life into zestful disturbance. A testament. An eye for eye, mucus for mucus, a garotte for grotty folk.

With the deep pile drumming of the long-haired man and this Slade chappie on vocals and guitar providing the main crescendos, they squiggle away to their hearts content. Some good songs, some very good and some simply not good enough. So there!

Ranging from the brisk push of "Small Town England" to the gentle calamity of "A Liberal Education" and "Running" (where the acoustic guitar adds further depth to an already bulging briefcase) to the outright flare of "Vengeance" and "Christian Militia" they prove they have the variety that many trios lack. Take a dip inside the sleek energy of "Sex (The Black Angel)", the vicar's lament.

Only on "Spirit Of The Falklands" do they become a real drag, for here it is that old Slade gets a touch of the dramatics and the curse of Tom Robinson beleaguers our ears. As it finishes off the record it's a bit of a blow but who cares, the overall effect is uplifting. Support them on their crusade.

May the smug never inherit the Earth.