In 1978 STEEL PULSE penned their debut, Handsworth Revolution, which became a reggae classic. It captured the experience of second-generation British blacks with songs about of the rise of far-right National Front. Some four decades later, with the band’s first album release in 15 years, parallel themes are seen as the songs on Mass Manipulation deal with issues of human trafficking, child prostitution and climate change. Steel Pulse returns with a “poppier” than its roots origins. Only two original members remain – David Hinds and keyboard player Selwyn Brown, but the singer’s songwriting and vocals have lost none of their qualities as he addresses social justice. Rize is a big, pounding call to arms. World Gone Mad is aghast at the state of things. Don’t Shoot tunefully responds to police brutality. Stop You Coming and Come and the horn-fired Cry Cry Blood are trademark, gently militant Steel Pulse and No Satan Side is a peach of a tune. The themes can seem a little obvious at times, but the 17 songs are delivered with sincerity, passion and infectious positivity. Nations of the World calls for global unity, while a cover of Steve Winwood’s Higher Love – renamed Rasta Love – cements a rousing comeback.
