Malcolm Owen

Released in September of 1979, The Ruts one and only studio album 'The Crack' was an extraordinary statement of intent. As the energy and attitude of punks first wave started to dissipate, here was a band that exploded onto the scene with everything to offer. 'The Crack' had it all. Twelve power-packed songs brimming with invention and energy, it featured an outstanding run of hit singles – 'Babylon's Burning', 'Something That I Said' and 'Jah War' – alongside some of the best adrenalized rock music to emerge in that decade's closing. Malcolm Owen's snarling yet soulful vocals, Paul Fox's soaring guitar and the incredible rhythm pairing of bassist John Jennings and drummer Dave Ruffy came together in perfect harmony to create an album that is as relevant and important now as it was then. Henry Rollins isn't alone in his opinion when he frequently refers to The Crack as the “best album ever made”.

“The Crack. I cannot explain to you the impact that this LP had. It is simply one of the best albums of it's time. A true treasure that does not age but only impresses the more you play it.” Henry Rollins