Blue Plate Special: The Jam
The Jam were an influential English rock band formed in 1972 in Woking, Surrey. Known for their energetic blend of punk, mod revival, and new wave, the trio—comprising Paul Weller (vocals, guitar), Bruce Foxton (bass, backing vocals), and Rick Buckler (drums)—rose to prominence in the late 1970s. From their debut single “In the City” in 1977 to their final release “Beat Surrender” in 1982, The Jam achieved 18 consecutive Top 40 hits in the UK, including four number-one singles. Their six studio albums, culminating in the chart-topping The Gift, cemented their status as one of the most successful British bands of their era. Despite their immense popularity, the group disbanded at their peak in 1982, a decision made solely by Weller, who sought new creative directions.
I was not much of a fan of the mainstream punk bands, but I connected with the sound of The Jam early on. The band’s music was characterized by its sharp social commentary, drawing from a diverse range of influences, including the raw energy of punk, the melodic sensibilities of 1960s beat music, and the soul and rhythm & blues sounds of Motown and Stax. Their distinctive mod image and politically charged lyrics resonated with a generation disillusioned by the socio-political climate of the time. Songs like “Going Underground,” “The Eton Rifles,” and “Town Called Malice” captured working-class struggles and youth rebellion, while their more introspective tracks, such as “That’s Entertainment,” highlighted the mundanity and beauty of everyday life. Weller’s songwriting and Rickenbacker-driven sound, complemented by Foxton’s punchy basslines and Buckler’s tight drumming, set The Jam apart from their contemporaries.
Following the band’s split, Weller formed The Style Council before embarking on a successful solo career, while Foxton and Buckler pursued various musical projects. Though The Jam never reunited, their legacy endures through countless compilations, tribute acts, and continued influence on British rock. Their music remains a touchstone for mod culture, with exhibitions like About the Young Idea and This Is the Modern World celebrating their impact. While Weller and Foxton reconciled years later, the full trio never reformed, with Weller adamantly rejecting the idea of a reunion. Nevertheless, The Jam’s music continues to inspire new generations, standing as a defining voice of British youth culture in the late 20th century.
Here are some of my favorites from their catalog:
Town Called Malice – from the album The Gift (1982)
That’s Entertainment – from the album Sound Affects (1980)
Going Underground – from the album Setting Sons (1979)
David Watts – from the album All Mod Cons (1978)
In The City – from the album In The City (1977)
Start! – from the album Sound Affects (1980)
Slow Down (Demo) – from the album 1977 (2017)
Life from a Window – from the album This Is The Modern World (1977)
