Billy Bragg released “A New England” in 1983. It’s a stark social commentary on early 80s Britain. He sings it rather plainly, with just his own gritty voice and some loose guitar strumming.
He did a great job coming up with the melody and lyrics, but I do prefer this rather more slick version from Kirsty MacColl, released the year after in 1984.
It’s produced by Steve Lillywhite, her then husband. A classic, hi-energy piece of new wave goodness.
Truly an enduring classic.