"This Nation's Saving Grace" is the eighth studio album by the English post-punk band The Fall, released in 1985 through Beggars Banquet. Unlike their earlier work, this album features more pronounced pop sensibilities and catchy guitar hooks, thanks in part to John Leckie's accessible production. Recorded in London between June and July 1985, it is the second of three consecutive albums produced by Leckie.
The album includes singles like "Couldn't Get Ahead" and "Cruiser's Creek," and was supported by tours across Europe and America. Guitarist Brix Smith and bassist Steve Hanley regard it as one of the band's finest works, a sentiment echoed by many critics. The Guardian described it as the band "operating just on the edge of the mainstream and at the peak of their accessibility and yet strangeness." In 2002, Pitchfork ranked it as the 13th best album of the 1980s, highlighting its lasting impact and significance in the era's music landscape.
The Fall's lineup faced significant changes leading up to the recording of This Nation's Saving Grace, particularly after the tumultuous late 1984 promotional tour for their previous album, The Wonderful and Frightening World of.... Long-time members Paul Hanley (drums) and Steve Hanley (bass) both left the band in November 1984, following a stressful incident where the band's equipment was stolen. Mark E. Smith's harsh reaction to the theft contributed to tensions within the group, prompting both brothers to quit.
After Paul's departure became permanent, Karl Burns remained the sole drummer, while Steve was persuaded to return after a brief paternity leave. During Steve's absence, Simon Rogers was brought in to fill the bass role; however, he eventually transitioned to guitar and keyboards upon Steve's return. This period of instability was marked by a sense of chastisement within the band, particularly for Smith, who inscribed "S Hanley! He's Back" in the run-out groove of Side 1 as a way to celebrate Steve's return.
During this time, The Fall also recorded two Peel sessions in 1985, featuring early versions of several tracks from This Nation's Saving Grace, including "Couldn't Get Ahead," "Spoilt Victorian Child," and "Cruiser's Creek." These sessions highlighted the band's evolving sound and marked a significant moment in their creative process as they prepared for the new album.
