Gang of Four

Since reforming back in 2004, Gang of Four haven't really done anything to tarnish their almost unimpeachable reputation, apart from maybe a dubious commercial endorsement. But it is a big jump from playing some concerts where a new audience can see what all the fuss was about and actually going into the studio to make a new album. Yet despite being more than a little uneven, Content is surprisingly satisfying. It does a good job in recreating something that approximates the classic Gang of Four sound, with its spiky, shuddering guitar, ensuring that it couldn't really be mistaken for anyone else. In addition to sounding suitably authentic, Content also has some of the lyrical attacks that the band were so fond of in their early days. But it isn't Entertainment!; it isn't even close. And keeping that in mind is the key to enjoying Content ― it has to be appreciated for what it is, not what it could have been.