STIFF LITTLE FINGERS - INFLAMMABLE MATERIAL - 12" LP VINYL ALBUM - ROUGH 1 UK RECORDS ORIGINAL UK VERSION "Inflammable Material" is the 1979 debut album by the Northern Irish punk band "Stiff Little Fingers". Most of the album's tracks are about the "Troubles" and the grim reality of life in Northern Ireland with the songs containing themes of teenage boredom, sectarian violence, police oppression, etc, urging people to "grab it and change it, it's yours" in what became their signature song "Alternative Ulster". The song "Rough Trade" is about the band's view of the music business as being dishonest but have since claimed it is not about the record label which happens to have the same name. Released in 1979, Stiff Little Fingers' debut album, "Inflammable Material," emerged as a raw and unapologetic voice from the heart of the Northern Ireland conflict, known as the Troubles. The album captured the frustration, anger, and resilience of a generation growing up amidst violence and political unrest. Historical Context: Punk Rock Amidst the Troubles "Inflammable Material" arrived at a time when punk rock was sweeping across the UK, providing a platform for social commentary and rebellion. The Troubles, a period of sectarian violence and political instability in Northern Ireland, served as a backdrop for the album's themes of social unrest, disillusionment, and the urgent need for change. The album's sound is characterized by its raw energy, driving guitar riffs, and Jake Burns' passionate vocals. Lyrically, the songs tackle head-on the realities of life in Northern Ireland, addressing issues like sectarian violence ("Alternative Ulster"), police brutality ("Suspect Device"), and the futility of war ("Wasted Life"). The band's punk ethos shines through in their uncompromising attitude and their refusal to shy away from difficult topics. While the album resonated with many who felt marginalized and disenfranchised, it also drew criticism for its bluntness and political message. Some accused the band of glorifying violence, while others praised them for their honesty and courage in addressing the difficult realities of their homeland. Produced by Jimmy Litherland, "Inflammable Material" was recorded at Spaceward Studios in Cambridge. The production team opted for a raw and unpolished sound that reflected the urgency and intensity of the band's message. The album's lo-fi aesthetic became a hallmark of the punk rock genre, capturing the raw energy and emotion of their live performances. Record Label & Catalognr: Rough Trade in Association with Rigid Digits ROUGH 1 Album Packaging:This album "Inflammable Material" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs Year & Country: 1979 Made in England • Matrix / Runout (Runout A, variant 1): S-5 ROUGH1 A-2 HELLO BRIAN A PORKY PRIMECUT E.G.. • Matrix / Runout (Runout B, variant 1): S-5 ROUGH1 B-2 E.G. • Condition The sleeve has some scuffing edgewear, which is usual for the non laminate sleeves and has no splits - although a light amount of foxing is clearly visible throughout. • The labels are clean, whilst the vinyl is G with a few light hairlines throughout. Though not Mint - A nice copy of this original pressing. Added Bonus: From personal archives 2 original (paper) defining articles from the UK’s leading Music publication – New Musical Express – about Stiff Little Fingers and the release and review of the Inflammable Material LP. February 10th and February 17th 1979. Both in excellent condition.