Hey music lovers! Today, we're diving deep into a true gem of the late 70s: Ian Dury and the Blockheads' 'Do It Yourself' album. If you're a fan of witty lyrics, quirky melodies, and a sound that's just relentlessly fun, then you're in for a treat. We'll explore what makes this album so special, and, of course, we'll be checking out its presence on Discogs, the ultimate online music database. Let's get started!

The Genius of Ian Dury

Before we plunge into the album itself, let's take a moment to appreciate the brilliance of Ian Dury. Ian Dury wasn't your typical rock star. He was a poet, a painter, and a performer who defied expectations. A childhood bout with polio left him with a physical disability, but it never hindered his creative spirit. Instead, it fueled his unique perspective and his determination to express himself through music.

Dury's lyrics were sharp, observational, and often hilarious. He had a knack for capturing the everyday lives of ordinary people, and he did it with a wit and charm that was all his own. He wasn't afraid to tackle difficult subjects, but he always did it with a sense of humor and a deep understanding of human nature. His impact on music is undeniable, paving the way for countless artists who dared to be different and to embrace their own unique voices. Dury's blend of punk energy, music hall traditions, and lyrical genius created a sound that was both innovative and timeless, cementing his place as a true icon of British music.

He formed Ian Dury and the Blockheads in the mid-1970s, bringing together a group of incredibly talented musicians who perfectly complemented his style. The Blockheads weren't just a backing band; they were an integral part of the sound, contributing their own musical ideas and helping to create a truly collaborative and dynamic group. The band's tight musicianship, combined with Dury's charismatic stage presence, made them a force to be reckoned with.

'Do It Yourself': A Masterpiece of British Music

Released in 1979, 'Do It Yourself' is arguably Ian Dury and the Blockheads' most iconic album. From the distinctive Humphrey Ocean-designed wallpaper cover (more on that later!) to the infectious grooves within, it's an album that grabs your attention and refuses to let go. The album perfectly encapsulates the band's unique blend of musical styles, from punk and new wave to funk and music hall. It's a melting pot of sounds that somehow manages to feel cohesive and uniquely Dury.

The lyrics, as always, are a highlight. Dury's observational wit is on full display, tackling subjects ranging from social commentary to personal relationships with his trademark humor and insight. The songs are filled with memorable characters and vivid storytelling, painting a picture of everyday life in Britain in the late 1970s. But beyond the humor, there's also a sense of genuine emotion and vulnerability in Dury's lyrics, making the songs all the more relatable and impactful. The album is a testament to Dury's ability to connect with his audience on a deep and personal level, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of British music history.

Key Tracks

• "Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3": A ridiculously catchy list song that celebrates the simple pleasures in life.
• "Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick": A driving, energetic track with a killer bassline and some seriously playful lyrics. This song became a massive hit and remains one of Dury's most recognizable tunes.
• "I Want to Be Straight": A hilarious and surprisingly poignant song about the struggles of trying to conform to societal expectations.
• "Common as Muck": A social commentary piece that offers a glimpse into the lives of working-class people with Dury's signature wit and empathy.

These are just a few examples, of course. Every track on 'Do It Yourself' has something to offer, making it an album that you can listen to again and again without getting bored.

The Iconic Album Art

Let's talk about that album cover. The 'Do It Yourself' album is famous for its unique packaging. The original release featured a cover that was designed to look like a sample of wallpaper. Each pressing of the album featured a different wallpaper design, making it a collector's dream. The concept was conceived by artist Humphrey Ocean, who collaborated closely with Dury to create a visual representation of the album's themes of everyday life and individuality. The wallpaper patterns ranged from floral designs to geometric shapes, reflecting the diverse and eclectic nature of the music within.

The idea behind the wallpaper cover was to encourage listeners to "do it yourself" – to create their own unique style and to embrace their individuality. It was a clever and subversive way to challenge the conventions of album art and to make a statement about the importance of self-expression. The wallpaper design also tied in with the album's lyrical themes, which often focused on the mundane aspects of everyday life, elevating the ordinary to the extraordinary. The album's cover became an instant classic and a symbol of the DIY ethos that permeated the punk and new wave scenes of the late 1970s.

Finding a copy with its original wallpaper intact is a real treat for collectors. It adds another layer of appreciation to an already brilliant album.

'Do It Yourself' on Discogs

Now, let's get to the Discogs part. For those of you who aren't familiar, Discogs is a massive online database of music information. It's a fantastic resource for collectors, fans, and anyone interested in learning more about music. You can find information about albums, singles, artists, and labels, as well as buy and sell records.

What You'll Find on Discogs

• Multiple Releases: 'Do It Yourself' has been released in many different versions over the years, including original vinyl pressings, reissues, and international editions. Discogs lists them all, with detailed information about the label, catalog number, country of origin, and year of release.
• Variations in Wallpaper: As we mentioned earlier, the original vinyl release had different wallpaper designs on the cover. Discogs users meticulously document these variations, making it possible to identify and collect specific versions.
• Condition and Pricing: If you're looking to buy a copy of 'Do It Yourself', Discogs is a great place to start. You can see what copies are currently for sale, their condition, and their prices. This helps you make an informed decision and find the best deal.
• Detailed Tracklists and Credits: Discogs provides complete tracklists for each release, as well as credits for the musicians, producers, and engineers involved in the album's creation. This is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the making of 'Do It Yourself'.
• User Reviews and Ratings: Discogs users can leave reviews and ratings for albums, providing valuable insights and opinions. This can help you decide whether or not to buy an album and what to expect from it.

How to Use Discogs for 'Do It Yourself'

1. Search: Simply type "Ian Dury Do It Yourself" into the Discogs search bar.
2. Browse: You'll see a list of all the different releases of the album. Take some time to browse through them and compare the different versions.
3. Examine Details: Click on a specific release to see more detailed information, including the tracklist, credits, and release history.
4. Check Prices: If you're interested in buying a copy, check the "Marketplace" section to see what's currently available for sale.
5. Read Reviews: Before you buy, read the user reviews to get an idea of the album's sound quality and overall condition.

Why 'Do It Yourself' Still Matters

Decades after its release, 'Do It Yourself' remains a relevant and influential album. Its witty lyrics, infectious melodies, and DIY spirit continue to resonate with listeners of all ages. The album is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of being true to yourself. It's a reminder that music can be both entertaining and thought-provoking, and that even the most ordinary subjects can be transformed into something extraordinary through art.

Ian Dury's unique perspective and his ability to connect with his audience on a deep and personal level have cemented his place as a true icon of British music. 'Do It Yourself' is a shining example of his genius, and it's an album that deserves to be celebrated for generations to come. Its impact can be heard in the work of countless artists who have followed in Dury's footsteps, and its message of individuality and self-expression remains as relevant today as it was in 1979.

So, there you have it – a deep dive into Ian Dury and the Blockheads' 'Do It Yourself' album, with a special focus on its presence on Discogs. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, I hope this article has inspired you to explore this incredible album and appreciate the genius of Ian Dury. Happy listening, guys!