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"I Predict a Riot" is a song by Kaiser Chiefs, appearing on their debut album Employment. It was originally released as their second single on 1 November 2004, and was the band's first release on the B-Unique label. It entered at #22 on the UK singles chart, a move which started the band's rise to popularity. It was soon re-released on 22 August 2005 as a double A-side with new song, "Sink that Ship". This time, it peaked at #9 in the charts.
About the song
Portraying a rowdy night out in their native Leeds, "I Predict a Riot" is possibly the group's best-known song, as well as being their signature hit. It is one of the three tracks the band played when they opened Live 8 in Philadelphia, alongside "Everyday I Love You Less and Less" and "Oh My God". The song makes a reference to John Smeaton ("an old Leodensian"), after whom was named the school house of Ricky Wilson.
"I Predict a Riot" and "Sink that Ship" was featured on the soundtrack to the video game Gran Turismo 4. "Take My Temperature", a B-side on the initial release, is a live favourite, notably at earlier gigs. "I Predict A Riot" was covered by Girls Aloud on their 2006 Chemistry arena tour.
Critical response
The song is played in many clubs across Britain, and received a generally enthusiastic response. However, the timorous tone of the lyrics led to the group being dubbed "the weeds from Leeds" by Boris Johnson and drawing unfavourable comparisons with White Riot by the Clash (Daily Telegraph, 12 January 2006)
Track listing
Initial release
- "7
- "I Predict a Riot"
- "Take My Temperature"
- CD
- "I Predict a Riot"
- "Take My Temperature"
- "Wrecking Ball"
- "I Predict a Riot" (Enhanced Video)
Re-issue
- 7", CD
- "I Predict a Riot"
- "Sink that Ship"
- Maxi CD
- "I Predict a Riot"
- "Less is More"
- "Everyday I Love You Less and Less (BoyzNoise Remix)"
- "I Predict a Riot" (Enhanced Video)
Music video
There have been two videos produced for "I Predict a Riot". The first, made for the original release, was directed by Charlie Paul, and features the band performing in front of a crowded audience, who appear to start a "pillow fight".
However, it was the second video that earned more attention. The main plotline for the sepia promo features the band wandering and performing in an Edwardian town, catching the attention of a mysterious freak show owner.
External links
"I Predict a Riot"