Borders
(Billy Rowan - The Undercover Hippy)

Jez - Vocals/Guitar
Nye - Double Bass
Ewan Bleach - Clarinet

This song, though written almost a decade ago, seems to become more poignant day by day. The movement of both mineral wealth and displaced people from the global south to the “developed” nations of “the west” is one of the defining characteristics of our current era. When I first heard “Borders” I was stunned by the rhetorical flourish that is the second verse and was very soon singing it every chance I got. Across Europe people seem to resonate with these themes, though performing it can prove a fascinating insight into local politics and prejudice.

The Undercover Hippy is something of a pop-star among festival crowds on the UK summer circuit. He combines a knack for writing catchy hook lines and dance grooves with deft lyricism and serious political acumen, to create some fine songs. You can hear more of his work at www.billyrowan.co.uk