Description

Dead Kennedys – Bedtime For Democracy – Cassette

Bedtime for Democracy is the fourth and final studio album by the American punk rock band Dead Kennedys, released in 1986. This album came out during a tumultuous time for the band, shortly before they disbanded in 1986. The album’s title and content are a satirical take on American politics and society, consistent with the band’s approach throughout their career.

Bedtime for Democracy continues Dead Kennedys’ trademark style of fast-paced, aggressive punk rock with sharp, satirical lyrics. The album critiques various aspects of society, government, and consumer culture, reflecting the band’s deep disenchantment with the state of American democracy. The tracks deal with issues ranging from the corruption within the political system to the commercialization of punk music itself.

Key Tracks:
‘Take This Job and Shove It’ – A cover of the country song by David Allan Coe, turned into a punk anthem about rejecting the drudgery of menial labor.
‘Chickenshit Conformist’ – A critique of the punk scene itself, lamenting its commercialization and the loss of its original rebellious spirit.
‘D.M.S.O.’ – A song about the use of DMSO as a pain reliever, which also critiques the FDA and chemical companies.

Bedtime for Democracy received mixed reviews upon its release. Some praised it for its uncompromising political messages and energy, while others felt it lacked the focus and impact of earlier releases like ‘Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables.’ Nonetheless, it is recognized for its raw power and the urgency of its message.

The album is often noted for its prophetic qualities, as many of the issues it addresses remain relevant. It encapsulates the spirit of the 1980s punk scene, characterized by a deep distrust of authority and the desire for radical change. ‘Bedtime for Democracy’ stands as a testament to Dead Kennedys’ role in shaping the voice and direction of American punk music.

For fans of punk rock, especially those interested in politically charged music, Bedtime for Democracy is an essential listen. It showcases the Dead Kennedys’ ability to blend sharp wit with intense, energetic music, making a strong statement against societal and political issues that still resonates today. The album remains a powerful closing statement to the band’s influential career, emphasizing punk’s role as a counter-cultural force that challenges the status quo.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal

Alternative Tenticles Records

Track Listing
1. Take This Job And Shove It
2. Hop With The Jet Set
3. Dear Abby
4. Rambozo The Clown
5. Fleshdunce
6. Great Wall, The
7. Shrink
8. Triumph Of The Swill
9. Macho Insecurity
10. I Spy
11. Cesspools In Eden
12. One-Way Ticket To Eden
13. Do The Slag
14. Commercial, A
15. Gone With My Wind
16. Anarchy For Sale
17. Chickenshit Conformist
18. Where Do Ya Draw The Line
19. Potshot Heart Round The World
20. D.M.S.O.
21. Lie Detector