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Skids


"Days in Europa" is the second album by Scottish punk rock and new wave band Skids, released in 1979 by Virgin Records. The album reflects the band's evolving sound and lyrical depth, touching on themes of war and mortality. The track "Dulce et Decorum Est (Pro Patria Mori)" on Side 1 references Wilfred Owen's famous anti-war poem, which critiques the glorification of dying for one’s country. This aligns with the album's exploration of the harsh realities of war, particularly World War I and II. On Side 2, the track "Thanatos" draws from Greek mythology, referencing the personification of death. In Freudian psychology, Thanatos represents the death wish or destructive impulses, contrasting with Eros, the drive for life and creativity. Overall, Days in Europa showcases Skids' ability to blend punk rock energy with thought-provoking lyrics, making it a significant entry in their discography.