Barrie’s best songs have titles that consist of only one word. New single Frankie is one of those.

The track opens with a pulsating synth in the best New Order tradition. Throughout, the song is drenched in subtle synth layers and propelled by a driving beat. However, who really inspired the song was legendary songwriter Glen Campbell. His 1968 hit Wichita Lineman, which is about the American archetype of the relentless worker, is referenced in the opening lines: ‘Born with emotion / Pushed into motion / Wichita Lineman / Our most favourite tragedy.’

In a statement, Barrie Lindsay explains: “Glen Campbell had just died and the radio was playing Wichita Lineman. It felt relevant to the social justice movements at the moment, to the push for democratic socialism, or at least a rejection of capitalism and where it’s gotten us. The Wichita Lineman has a shitty oppressive job that isolates and overworks him, as many Americans do, and instead of feeling outraged on his behalf we honor and lionize his commitment to labor. The song is a great litmus test. People either find the character really heroic and noble, or find the whole situation sad and fucked.”

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Werner Schlosser

I’m a music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Have been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, I developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.