In collaboration with

Rising rock band and Marshall Records artist The Molotovs select us 10 tracks from their deep record collection, picking out songs by Wunderhorse, The Libertines, Paul Weller and more.

Issey’s Picks

'Flag Day' by The Housemartins

I’ve been obsessed with Paul Heaton’s oeuvre ever since being introduced to The Housemartins, The Beautiful South and his solo work. ‘Flag Day’ is a testament to Heaton’s writing ability, taking on such a nuanced topic such as performative activism and delivering such an eloquent attack on its superficiality. “Too many Florence Nightingales, not enough Robin Hoods,” must be one of the greatest opening lines. I love Heaton’s soaring, open vocals and how they build into a belting call for arms, underscored by his barely suppressed anger, bubbling under the track. Can’t wait to see him live on the 10th!

'I’m Just Looking' by Dexys Midnight Runners

Searching for the Young Soul Rebels is one of my favourite albums. I first got hold of the record at Olaf’s Record Store in Sevenoaks during Record Store Week where we performed at the pub opposite - this is the album I chose to take home with me. Kevin Rowland’s sputtering, sulky vocals make my soul weep. Midway through, the horn section punctuates the track in stabs which send Rowland howling. His voice has got the characterisation of a tragic vaudeville villain. I love the drama of this track, it’s almost pantomime in its character. The organ also adds this sorrowful element which is so captivating.

'This Is Pop?' by XTC

We always had XTC playing on the radio as kids. XTC are one of the most perfect pop bands in my opinion; their melodies are simultaneously catchy and unusual, a difficult combination to get right. Andy Partridge’s spiky, idiosyncratic vocals remind me of a mad scientist. It’s really amusing. Terry Chamber’s unconventional drumming suits this track perfectly and the guitars and bass dance with each other. I strive to make a song as instantly irresistible as this.

'Devil Gate Drive' by Suzi Quatro

It’s a shame I’ve come to Suzi Quatro’s music so late. I heard this track recently on a 1975 compilation album I picked up for 50p from a local charity shop. It features songs from Roger Daltry, Stealers Wheel and The Faces. It wouldn’t be right not to mention another female bassist on the list, and Suzi Quatro is the prototypal figure. Inspiring to hear such powerful, confident vocals from a female artist.

'Time For Heroes' by The Libertines

The Libertines were the band to spark my passion for music and for that, I am eternally grateful. We’ve had the good fortune of supporting them on two tours, an experience that has been both exhilarating and terrifying. ‘Time For Heroes’ is one of those songs that people could march into battle to; this song resonates with so many. It does what so many other hits strive to do- inspire more creativity. This is a song that urges you to pick up your weapon of choice, whether that be your guitar, bass or microphone. What an undeniable tune.

Matthew’s Picks

'Hung up' by Paul Weller

I fell in love with this song as soon as I saw a clip of him playing it in the documentary Highlights and Hangups. I just thought it had everything a Weller song should have! It is energetic, soulful, has a great chord progression, an infectious melody and a music video of him looking boss in that fur coat.

'What Do I Get?' by The Buzzcocks

I first discovered this song whilst going through The Buzzcocks’ John Peel session. The frantic drumming, slashing guitars, and Pete Shelly’s androgynous voice seemed really unique to me. Pete Shelly keeps the gender of his subjects anonymous in his writing which I think sets him apart from other songwriters.

'Teal' by Wunderhorse

A more contemporary choice than the rest on this list but I think Jacob Slater from Wunderhorse is one of the best young writers out there. I admire his ability to write so deeply and honestly from his personal experience even though I might not relate to the subject of the song. They’re chilling lyrics. From a more musical standpoint, I like how the dynamics in the song build with the use of harmonies and melody change. I hope one day to see them play it live.

'Running On The Spot' by The Jam

I chose this song primarily because of the lyrics, although I really like the descending bass line and riff over the top. It shows Weller being critical towards the apathetic attitude of his generation: “We’re just the next generation of emotionally crippled.” To me it shows how good a writer he is on a social commentator level, and how observant he can be in his songs. It’s something I admire as a songwriter.

'To Be Someone' by The Jam

I first stumbled across this song off a live video of The Jam playing at Newcastle City Hall in 1980. The lyrics interested me since they are about fame and the unique outlook he had on it. He reflects on the fame with humour, and honesty saying that his hazy dream of fame is not all it’s cracked up to be. The song tells a tale of a washed-up rockstar reminiscing about his glory days which I think reflects Weller’s fear of becoming a thing of the past: an artefact unable to move with the times, a fear I think he holds to this day. “No more swimming in a guitar shaped pool, no more reporters at my beck and call, no more cocaine now it’s only ground chalk, no more taxis now we’ll have to walk.” I’ve never heard someone reflect on fame like that before.