Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

If the 'Stop The Dominoes' album from 1981 had enough profile to introduce Heard to a wider audience, then it was this album from the following year which put him on the map. Co-produced with Bill Cobb, the album's jangling guitar sound and thumping drum sound is very '80s but it still has a charm which survives a quarter of a century later. Heard's songwriting had developed an insightful charm that made the songs contained here compelling and full of observations of the human condition. I have to confess that I do like Heard when he rocks so there's plenty to enjoy here. The opening title cut has always been a particular favourite with its anthemic chorus and along with "City Life Won't Let Up" and "Faces In Cabs" forms an opening salvo of songs that chew on the challenges of urban life. "Nothing Is Bothering Me" has a fabulous bluesy feel whilst the gentler "Some Folks' World" is more reflective. Equally good is "Dancing At The Policeman's Ball", an upbeat rocker. "Everybody Loves A Holy War" places Heard in a similar position to Bruce Cockburn in being unafraid to deal with difficult subjects. Since his death, there have been plenty of artists who have chosen to record Heard's songs and this album closes with "Heart Of Hearts" which was covered by Leslie Phillips. Ultimately, 'Victims Of The Age' is one of Heard's finest albums.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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