Ian Dury & The Blockheads – Do It Yourself

Ian Dury & The Blockheads – Do It Yourself

Released in 1979, Do It Yourself is the second studio album from Ian Dury & The Blockheads, and one of the defining records of the British new wave era. Combining Dury's unmistakable Cockney humour and sharply observed lyrics with the Blockheads' sophisticated mixture of funk, rock, jazz, reggae, and punk, the album is both musically inventive and unmistakably British.

Following the success of New Boots And Panties!!, Dury and the Blockheads developed their sound into something even more rhythmically adventurous. At the heart of the record is the extraordinary musicianship of the band, particularly Chaz Jankel's funky keyboard and guitar work and Norman Watt-Roy's famously inventive bass playing. The result is a record that can shift effortlessly from punk attitude to funk grooves and jazz-inflected arrangements.

The album opens with "Inbetweenies," establishing the record's character with its infectious rhythm and Dury's distinctive vocal delivery. "Quiet" and "Don't Ask Me" continue the band's playful combination of groove and sharp songwriting, while "Sink My Boats" brings a more relaxed, bluesy feel.

Side two opens with "This Is What We Find," before moving through the eccentric "Uneasy Sunny Day Hotsy Totsy" and the mischievous "Mischief." The sprawling "Dance Of The Screamers" showcases the Blockheads' ability to stretch into funk and jazz territory, while "Lullaby For Francies" provides a suitably atmospheric close to the album.

Do It Yourself is notable not only for its songs but also for its striking original packaging, famously featuring a series of different Crown Wallpaper designs. The concept perfectly suited Dury's irreverent approach and helped make the original release a memorable piece of British pop culture.

The album remains an essential listen for fans of Ian Dury, The Blockheads, Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, The Clash, Graham Parker, and British new wave, while its funky rhythm section and jazz influences continue to appeal to collectors beyond the punk and new wave scenes.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Inbetweenies – 5:16
2. Quiet – 3:33
3. Don't Ask Me – 3:16
4. Sink My Boats – 4:13
5. Waiting For Your Taxi – 2:51

Side B

1. This Is What We Find – 4:10
2. Uneasy Sunny Day Hotsy Totsy – 2:09
3. Mischief – 3:35
4. Dance Of The Screamers – 6:35
5. Lullaby For Francies – 4:58