Stand And Deliver

Adam and the Ants' song "Stand and Deliver" is a vibrant and rebellious anthem that captures the essence of the band's unique style and ethos. The lyrics introduce us to the 'Dandy Highwayman,' a flamboyant and audacious character who defies societal norms and expectations. This character spends his money on looking flashy and grabbing attention, embodying a sense of rebellion against conventional standards of appearance and behavior. The line "The Devil take your stereo and your record collection" suggests a disdain for mainstream culture and materialism, while the mention of qualifying for an old age pension humorously critiques the aging and outdated nature of societal norms.

The chorus, "Stand and deliver, your money or your life," is a direct reference to the traditional demand made by highwaymen, but with a twist. Instead of using violence, the Dandy Highwayman suggests using a mirror, symbolizing self-reflection and the power of appearance. This reflects the band's emphasis on style and image as a form of rebellion and self-expression. The lyrics also touch on the idea of fooling one's soul and the consequences of ignoring one's conscience, adding a layer of introspection to the otherwise flamboyant narrative.

The song further explores the concept of the 'Dandy Highwaymen' as a collective, expressing their disdain for 'easy fashion' and superficial trends. They reject the clumsy and predictable styles that are deemed fashionable by society, instead advocating for a more daring and individualistic approach. The invitation to "throw your safety overboard and join our insect nation" is a call to embrace this rebellious spirit and join their movement. The repeated 'qua qua' sounds add a playful and almost mocking tone, reinforcing the band's irreverent attitude towards societal norms and expectations.