The Things About Us examines British identity: what are we like, what do we think we're like, and what's in the gap in between?This week, Mark is at Lush Studios, attempting to create a new national anthem - something that says something about us as a nation, and which isn't a dirge - in one night. He's joined by the Commoners Choir, acclaimed musician Eliza Carthy, Popbitch's Eurovision analyst Kit Lovelace, and author Alex Marshall, as well as musical comedians Jonny Donahoe and Paddy Gervers (aka Jonny & The Baptists) to actually create the song. The Things About Us is written and presented by Mark Thomas. It was recorded at the Lush Studios by Tim Bazell, and produced by Susan McNicholas and Ed Morrish. Thanks to Lush for their support, and to Dr. Feelgood for the use of their music.If you want to say hello on social media, Mark Thomas is @markthomasinfo; Jonny and Paddy are @Jonny_Baptists; Eliza is @elizacarthy; Kit is @kitlovelace; and Alex is @alexmarshall81. The Commoners Choir website is http://www.commonerschoir.comThe version of the anthem you hear at the end is available to buy on Jonny & Paddy's album, Love You Hate Bastards, on Bandcamp: https://jonnyandthebaptists.bandcamp.com/You can buy Alex's book about Anthems, Republic or Death!, from good bookshops: https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/Alex-Marshall/Republic-or-Death--Travels-in-Search-of-National-Anthems/18754519Mark's photo is by Steve Ullathorne (ullathorne.photoshelter.com/index) and the design is by Greg Matthews (designbygreg.uk/)

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