Dexys Midnight Runners - Don’t Stand Me Down

Vinyl - N/M

Sleeve - G+

on cherry red vinyl

Released in September 1985, this fascinating third studio album from Dexys Midnight Runners remains one of the most individual and uncompromising records of the decade.

Best known for massive hits such as Geno and Come On Eileen, the band took a very different direction with this release, creating an ambitious, thoughtful and wonderfully unconventional album.

Following the huge commercial success of 1982’s Too-Rye-Ay, expectations were high for the band’s next album. However, frontman Kevin Rowland had other ideas.

Gone were the famous dungarees and Celtic-inspired image. In their place came sharp suits, a more understated appearance and a musical direction that deliberately moved away from mainstream pop.

Produced around Rowland’s distinctive songwriting vision, Don’t Stand Me Down featured extended musical arrangements, conversational spoken-word passages and thoughtful lyrics exploring identity, relationships, Irish heritage and personal beliefs.

At the time, the album divided critics and listeners. Its unconventional approach and lengthy compositions were a considerable departure from the catchy singles that had made Dexys household names.

With hindsight, however, it is widely regarded as one of the band’s most ambitious and rewarding recordings.

‘Buy Sell Trade Vinyl at Bristol’s Friendly Local Record Shop’