Fall Dragnet CD - Import

The Fall's second album, released the same year as their debut (1979), refines its predecessor's somewhat embryonic approach, simplifying the sonic attack and acheiving greater concision and sense of mission. Mark E. Smith's lyrical themes are a bit darker, but still juggle post-punk sociopolitical commentary with dense, imagistic wordplay. Perhaps most importantly, DRAGNET marks the arrival of guitarist Craig Scanlon and bassist Steve Hanley, who would prove crucial to the band's progression over the next few years. Scanlon and Marc Riley's scrappy, lo-fi guitar din is appropriately discordant and repetitive, emphasizing the bleak societal framework from which the album emerged.

The song structures are pared down to basic, almost primal extremes, making for a more instant communication of intent, with Smith's disgruntled observations delivered over purposefully primitive, occasionally martial bashing. DRAGNET provides the framework from which the Fall would continue to fashion their trademark sound over their next couple of releases.

2004 deluxe expanded reissue of 1979 album features 22 tracks including 11 rare bonus tracks, 'Rowche Rumble', 'In My Area', 'Fiery Jack', '2nd Dark Age', 'Psykick Dancehall 2', 'Rowche Rumble' (Take 2, Take 3 Take 4, & Take 5), & 'In My Area' (Take 1, Take 2), released for the first time from original tapes. Includes expansive booklet & slipcase. Castle.

Recording information: Cargo Studios, Rochdale (08/02/1979-08/04/1979).

Personnel: Marc Riley (vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar); Mark E. Smith (vocals, kazoo, electric piano, tapes); Steve Hanley (vocals); Craig Scanlan (electric guitar, kazoo, electric piano, tapes); Mike Leigh (drums); Mrs. Horace Sullivan (background vocals).

Liner Note Author: Daryl Easlea.

Q (4/04, p.131) - 4 stars out of 5 - "DRAGNET is Mark E Smith and chums in willfully difficult but imaginatively fertile form..."