I don't mind the sweary stuff on this at all. In fact I think it enhances if anything.
This was made just 4 short years after Jools Holland's "groovy fuckers" legendary live gaffe on channel four, which I remember causing quite a stir at the time. Swearing wasn't as popular back then as it is today, so when this came out it was pretty controversial, plus it's very much in context given it's a protest record.
The sound they create makes me think they believe what they're trying to say, not just going through the motions, committed, if you will, can't ask for much more really.
I like this record, very much, but it's a hard one to score because for me it's a "small doses" kind of sound. When I revisit this album as I do from time to time, it always sounds brilliant cranked up in the car or with cans on, but I quickly get my fix and move on, filed away for the next time I need some high octane aural stimulation. It's not a sound I need to hear that often to enjoy it.
I'd compare it to a vindaloo, you wouldn't want one every night, but having one every now and again just re-reminds you of how great they are, and you'd miss it like fuck if you could never have another.
Just something I've noticed whilst discussing this pick at work, this record seems to appeal to a really wide age group. I've had people from their mid-twenties up to 60ish saying how much they love it, which I thought was interesting.
Nevertheless it's a great pick and a bloody good record, some will absolutely hate it, and I get that, but for me it's gotta be a 7 at least.
Fuck it, 8/10.