In 1983 and 1984, Crass were part of the Stop the City actions coordinated by London Greenpeace that foreshadowed the anti-globalisation rallies of the early 21st century. Support for these activities was provided in the lyrics and sleeve notes of the band’s last single, “You’re Already Dead”, expressing doubts about their commitment to nonviolence . It was also a reflection of disagreements within the group, as explained by Rimbaud: “Half the band supported the pacifist line and half supported direct and if necessary violent action. It was a confusing time for us, and I think a lot of our records show that, inadvertently”. This led to introspection within the band, with some members becoming embittered and losing sight of their essentially positive stance. Reflecting this debate, the next release under the Crass name was Acts of Love : classical-music settings of 50 poems by Penny Rimbaud, described as “songs to my other self” and intended to celebrate “the profound sense of unity, peace and love that exists within that other self”.
Stop the City actions
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