Alcohol by The Kinks

Album: Muswell Hillbillies (1971)

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Not to be confused with the later uptempo Ozzy Osbourne track "Demon Alcohol," this Ray Davies composition, the 5th track on the 1971 Muswell Hillbillies album, tells the story of a man who was brought down by women and drink - always a fatal combination - in particular his ambitious wife and a floozie. Actually, it is the women alone who appear to bring him down, but he probably didn't need that much assistance. A sad but familiar tale in post-World War Two Britain.
On stage, during the drunkard's lines "Oh demon alcohol," Davies would sometimes spray beer on the front row of the audience, something he did for the first time in Montreal, Canada, on February 5, 1970. He did this because the audience was unresponsive (and apparently stoned) but instead of taking it as an insult they enjoyed it. This led to the performance of the song becoming more theatrical, and with the audiences turning up ready for the shower. >>>
Suggestion credit:
Alexander Baron - London, England, for above 2

Comments: 5

Robbie from Portland OrRegarding the song's composition, Sofie Livebrant was born in 1972. This song was released in 1971. A miracle, if true.
Jones from Albany Nydough not dole a mid-class male would not be on the dole. right?
Macearca from MinnesotaSofie Livebrant was born in 1972; Alcohol was recorded in 1971. Ergo, the contention that she was one of the authors of the song is highly implausible.
Scott from EvanstonWhile Livebrant and Sjoblom did write a song of the same name, it was not this song and had not been written yet in 2971 when this one was first recorded.
Jan from Portland OrRay Davies is not the composer of this song. It was Sofie Livebrant and Svante Sjoblom who wrote this song. Just sayin'.

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