Billy Bragg – Don't Try This At Home

Billy Bragg – Don't Try This at Home

Released in 1991, Don’t Try This At Home captures Billy Bragg at a pivotal moment in his career, expanding beyond his earlier solo acoustic protest style into a fuller, more band-driven sound. While still rooted in folk and political songwriting, the album incorporates richer instrumentation, including contributions from guest musicians and more elaborate arrangements, without losing Bragg’s direct, socially conscious voice.

Across the record, Bragg continues his trademark blend of personal storytelling and political commentary. Tracks like Accident Waiting To Happen and Sexuality became standout moments, combining melodic accessibility with lyrical sharpness and emotional honesty. Moving The Goalposts and Tank Park Salute reflect his ability to weave everyday life and broader social themes into deeply human narratives.

Elsewhere, songs such as God’s Footballer and Rumours Of War highlight Bragg’s ongoing engagement with politics, class, and identity, delivered with wit, clarity, and empathy. The album’s expanded sonic palette gives these themes added depth, balancing intimacy with a more expansive rock-influenced sound.

Don’t Try This At Home remains one of Bragg’s most ambitious and well-rounded records, bridging his early protest folk roots with a more modern alternative rock sensibility.

Tracklist:

1. Accident Waiting To Happen – 3:59
2. Moving The Goalposts – 2:32
3. Everywhere – 4:58
4. Cindy Of A Thousand Lives – 4:13
5. You Woke Up My Neighbourhood – 3:09
6. Trust – 4:11
7. God's Footballer – 3:02
8. The Few – 3:25
9. Sexuality – 3:47
10. Mother Of The Bride – 3:34
11. Tank Park Salute – 3:34
12. Dolphins – 3:28
13. North Sea Bubble – 3:17
14. Rumours Of War – 2:49
15. Wish You Were Her – 2:45
16. Body Of Water – 3:54