English punk rockers The Jam never cracked the charts in the US but have been critically acclaimed for their energetic and thoughtful songs. Some of their better-known classics include "In The City," "That's Entertainment," and "Town Called Malice." "Town Called Malice" is one of those tunes that makes you both happy and sad. The music is undeniably jovial and challenges you not to dance, yet the lyrics describe harsh conditions in this town. I view the song as an optimistic anthem that positive change can happen if we make it so. Lead singer Paul Weller has stated the song was about his hometown of Woking, and the title was a spin on a novel called A Town Like Alice. People who grew up in the 80s probably recognize it as the song played in the movie National Lampoon's European Vacation. After the demise of The Jam, Weller would score some chart victories with The Style Council.
Eddie Floyd is a hugely underrated talent from the 60s who mixed soul and rock like few others. He's best known for "Knock On Wood," which hit #28 in 1966 and "Bring It On Home To Me," which hit #17 in 1968. Floyd got his start in The Falcons, best known for 1959's "You're So Fine" (#17). His backing band (called Ohio Untouchables) later became The Ohio Players. Rumored to have been written while waiting for his flight to attend the funeral of Otis Redding, "Big Bird" should have soared to the top of the charts. Punk rockers The Jam would do a cover of this song about a decade later. If you haven't heard this rousing rock and soul tune, it is about time.
