Fun > Da > Mental Refuse to Change V sign Album Artwork

Agit pop, electronic experimentalists Fun > Da > Mental are refusing to change the artwork on their forthcoming album There Shall Be Love, which features two images of an Asian boy flicking a two fingered V sign (which means F%ck Off). Band leader Aki, who back in the 80s launched his musical career playing drums with Southern Death Cult, was unrepentant about the imagery, telling Skrufff this week 'It will only offend those that have a distorted view either by choice or just out of apathy.'

Skrufff : The album artwork is certainly very provocative right now, why have you chosen this image-

Fun> Da> Mental (Aki): 'It's about reality and changing the landscape. For many years, there have been myths and misinformation about communities and although some of it could be perceived as complimentary it has actually left us open to abuse and intolerable acts, whether physical or psychological. These myths have misinformed the general public and to a certain degree has given them a tool to beat us with. Things have to change for the better or the future is bleak. I have lived in this country (the UK) for 36 years , I know it inside out but the country knows nothing of me. We are so diverse but we are all painted with one brush."

Skrufff: why do you prefer not to change the artwork, given that it's likely to cause offence and possible great trouble, for you and others-

Fun> Da> Mental (Aki): 'It only offends those that have a distorted view either by choice or just out of apathy. The image is far deeper than some will come to understand but if a small departure can be made it is enough to say it worked. We cannot compromise what others would not be asked to compromise. Trouble is something that began many years ago, if we could not face up to it then, we would have stopped many years ago. Fun-Da-Mental has never been just about us, it's been about how others feel too. A lot of today's trouble exists outside of the musical arena and music does not play a part but we are fully aware of what goes on and that is what we tend to talk about. This is difficult because you are then relaying your information to people who are not initially connected.'

http://www.fun-da-mental.com

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• fundamental