Ishmael United
Here's a record I bought just to see how a group of obviously English hooligan-types ended up with a record on a Christian music label from Pasadena, Texas. I still haven't figured that part out yet, but when I finally put the wax on the turntable I was quite surprised to hear some pretty cool old-school UK pogo-punk coming from my speakers. I had to double check to make sure I hadn't put a Vibrators record on by mistake.
Turns out "Ishmael" is some sort of Christian children's show host in the UK -- I'd tell you more but his website is a horrifying migraine-inducing monstrosity that I couldn't stomach for more than a minute or two, just long enough to snag this from his bio:
Ishmael (Rev Ian Smale) has been travelling around internationally in a 'full time' capacity since 1970 and has been privileged to see many men, women and children become Christians, filled with the Holy Spirit and healed, through the work God has called him to. He has written and recorded nearly 400 songs, released 36 albums of his and other writers songs, having produced 15 of these. He has also released 2 music videos and written many books, some of which have been translated into German, Dutch, Danish and Romanian. He has also been on national television many times, and is one of the very few people that has ministered at every Spring Harvest since the beginning. Although he loves spending time with children his heart is to see all ages praising God and having fun together. His travelling time is divided into adult seminars teaching about the importance of children, and the all age musical celebrations that he calls 'Praise Parties'.This record has a few good punk tracks, as well as some questionable ska/reggae. More enjoyable if you ignore the lyrics!
ALBUM INFO: Ishmael United, "If You Can't Shout Saved!, You'll Have to Face the Penalty"
1980, Kingsway Music, Star Song Records, Pasadena, Texas.
BUY: Available on cd on Ishmael's website, or for vinyl, check GEMM
TRACKS:
Song of the Last Generation
If You Can't Shout Saved...
Jesus Trip
