Content Yep Roc * * * *

As influential in their own way as Velvet Underground, the Leeds agit-prop band have an esteemed legacy to protect (their Entertainment!album is an all-time classic) and are very judicious about what and when they release. Contentis their first album in 16 years and displays a band undiminished and undaunted. Musically they're still working the short, sharp, shock template to great effect. And, with the sound even more stripped down than usual, there's a raw vitality to these offerings. The single, You'll Never Pay for the Farm, careens along on its wry, sardonic lyrics, while It Was Never Going to Turn Out Too Goodis simply, weirdly wonderful. The choppy Do as I Sayhas a melodic aggressiveness and sounds for all the world like Talking Heads covering The Jam. Sounding throughout more like their second album rather than one released 33 years(!) after they first formed, Contentis a timely reminder of just how great Gang of Four remain. gangoffour. co.uk BRIAN BOYD

Download tracks: Do as I Say, You'll Never Pay for the Farm