Folk music and the politics of resistance
The folk music scene has always had a political, radical edge. This is a short, personal survey by Russ Chandler of the level of political engagement in the scene today.
As Trump takes office: what is far right populism?
No other president in US history has come to power facing the scale of opposition seen on Saturday’s huge protests against Donald Trump. But what is the nature of Trump’s populism?
Your favourite tracks/albums of 2016
Every year we invite musicians, DJs and readers to send us their five favourite albums or tracks of 2016. In a year that saw so many great musicians pass away, there were a number of brilliant musical recordings. Our readers’ selections are eclectic and cross many genres. I hope you find some new music to explore.
A short history of Stiff Records – its wasn’t all peace, love and understanding
The Stiff record label was founded in 1976, it was at the heart of punk and new wave scene, bringing the world artists as diverse as Elvis Costello, Motorhead, Ian Dury and what is generally regarded as the first ever punk single, New Rose by The Damned. In his occasional blog looking at punk, Hassan Mahamdallie uncovers the magic of Stiff Records.
Fifty years of Star Trek – a socialist perspective
Star Trek has reached its 50th anniversary. But does it really offer a picture of a brave new world? Sasha Simic weighs up the sci-fi classic
FRANCE: Class struggle is back as oil, rail and dock workers strike against labour law
Oil workers have shut down all France’s refineries, dockers and railworkers have walked out againts a new labour law, while “Nuit Debout” protestors are in the streets, and the government is stirring up racism to try to divert the anger. John Mullen reports from France