The Agitator

The Agitator

The Agitator is a political alternative act led by vocalist Derek Meins, with Robert Dylan Thomas and ‘T-Train’ on double drums. The music is stripped-down, loud and direct, with a raw, no-frills approach that mixes contemporary protest energy with older references to fifties rock and depression-era thirties music. The project presents itself as a rallying call rather than a vehicle for a fixed ideology, aiming to energise and provoke rather than instruct.

Background

Derek Meins begins his recording career very young, signing to Rough Trade at the age of fourteen with his Berwick-upon-Tweed school band, Eastern Lane. Eastern Lane release two albums on Rough Trade before the group splits. Meins later issues a solo album, The Famous Poet Derek Meins, in 2008. His voice is described as having a Scottish burr, and The Agitator continues his interest in politically engaged songwriting.

Line-up and related work

Robert Dylan Thomas is noted for his drumming on The Maccabees’ first album, while ‘T-Train’ makes what is described as a first serious outing with The Agitator. The project is presented as a one-man attempt by Meins to respond to social injustice, unemployment, debt and political weakness through loud, confrontational music.

Releases and activity

The Agitator issues the double A-side single Get Ready / Let’s Start Marching in 2010, followed by Give Me All That You Got later the same year. An album titled NO! is planned for early 2011. The act also launches a protest campaign built around the idea of “NO!-ism”, encouraging public resistance to injustice and political frustration.

Live reputation

The Agitator’s live performances are associated with a forceful, inspirational style, using pounding drums and rallying songs in a way that suits marches, protests and other forms of collective action.