Songs for Social Justice: Rev Hammer - Freeborn John: The Story of John Lilburne – The Leader of The Levellers

The Songs for Social Justice blogs have so far looked at individual songs on the subject of social justice, often stating that the bands have a canon of fitting material but offering a reason as to why that particular song has been chosen. Occasionally a great album is released with a common theme of social justice, but seldom does an artist release a biographical album about a historical figure.  In 1997, Rev Hammer released such an album.

The story is set during the English Civil War, with a particular focus on one of the main characters of that period – John Lilburne, the leader of The Levellers. John Lilburne struggled against tyranny in the pursuit of equality, fairness and the freedom of speech. The album is a biography set to music and lyrics and is based on Pauline Gregg’s biographical book ‘Freeborn John’. 

Rev Hammer worked with a number of artists on this album, with many taking on particular roles. Eddi Reader, The Levellers, Justin Sullivan and Maddy Prior all make appearances.

Rev Hammer - Freeborn John: The Story of John Lilburne – The Leader of The Levellers

The full album can be listened to here:

• http://www.youtube.com/user/levellinglilburne/videos

Songs for Social Justice Dance Night featuring guest DJ Jerry Dammers -

o      Thursday 26^th January

o      STUC Centre, 333 Woodlands Road, Glasgow

o      6.45pm – midnight

o      Tickets £8/£4 - Available direct from the STUC - 0141 337 8100