The Queen and the Soldier - Suzanne Vega (1985)

Vega's music is definitely not pop oriented even though she had hits with Luka and to a lesser extent with Tom's Diner. She leans heavily in the folk tradition of the sixties and I have enjoyed all her work however, some more some less and my head was turned around with Luka too. This song I choose from all her work as the one I would like to listen over and over even though Luka is immensely catchy. I would be unhappy to have to leave behind any of her music for my deserted island.

Life In A Northern Town - The Dream Academy (1985)

Another song that refers to the Beatles this one is complete with screaming audience. This song is not that great in the final analysis but like its reminiscing topic it leaves an indelible memory.

The Island - Paul Brady (1985)

Wreckage down on main street

After knowing this song I was never the same again. I never tire of this, it always evokes deep emotions. Paul describes with word and music the futility of violence and war in a way I never experienced before. In a line showing desperate protest and sarcasm he declares 'young boys dying in the ditches Is just what being free is all about' And still more,  'we sacrifice our children To feed the worn-out dreams of yesterday...trying to carve out tomorrow from a tomstone' The song  referred to the conflict in Ireland at the time but it easily applies to other countries where there is civil war. But best to listen and be moved. Alternate version by Dolores Keane