Description

Doom – Total Doom – Compact Disc

Total Doom is a compilation album by the British crust punk band Doom, released in 1989. This album is a comprehensive collection of Doom’s early recordings, showcasing their aggressive, politically charged brand of punk. Doom is known for their influential role in the crust punk genre, combining the raw energy of hardcore punk with dark, heavy, and socially conscious lyrics.

This CD combines two late-’80s releases by British punks Doom, 1989’s Bury the Debt (Not the Dead), and 1988’s War Crimes (Inhuman Beings). This CD’s cover art is taken straight from the original Bury the Debt release. There are 37 tracks in all, totaling 68 minutes of thrashing, crusty anarcho-punk with revealing song titles such as ‘Nazi Die,’ ‘Police Bastard,’ and ‘War Crimes.’

No one would ever accuse Doom of spreading themselves too thin stylistically, since these songs are uniformly similar from one to the next, characterized by gruffly shouted vocals, distorted bass, simple guitar chord progressions, and lots of double-time drumming. One track, the brief, ferocious ‘Circles,’ could be cited as an early example of grindcore, but aside from that and a few other exceptions, there isn’t a lot of variety to this music. However, what Doom did, they did well, with a lot of energy and conviction, this music has held up over the years.

The album features classic crust punk elements, characterized by a raw, unpolished sound, aggressive tempos, and dark, heavy riffs. Incorporates elements of hardcore punk and D-beat, with fast, driving rhythms and intense, shouted vocals. Lyrics often reflect anarcho-punk themes, addressing political and social issues with a confrontational and critical stance.

Track Highlights:
‘Relief’: Opens the album with intense energy, fast-paced drumming, and raw guitar work, setting the tone for the rest of the compilation.
‘Police Bastard’: One of Doom’s most famous tracks, known for its direct, anti-authoritarian lyrics and powerful delivery.
‘War Crimes’: Combines fast tempos with heavy, doom-laden riffs, addressing themes of war and its atrocities.
‘No Religion’: Critiques organized religion with aggressive instrumentation and uncompromising lyrics.
‘Circles’: Features dynamic changes in tempo and intensity, reflecting the band’s ability to blend different punk influences seamlessly.
‘Fear of the Future’: A track that encapsulates the bleak outlook and social criticism that are central to Doom’s music.

Many songs address political and social issues such as war, police brutality, and inequality, reflecting the band’s anarcho-punk roots. The lyrics often take a strong anti-authoritarian stance, criticizing institutions and systems of power. Some tracks delve into environmental issues and existential fears about the future, highlighting a broader critique of modern society.

The production is intentionally raw and unpolished, capturing the gritty, authentic sound of the band’s early recordings. Features fast tempos, heavy guitar riffs, and powerful, shouted vocals, creating an aggressive and intense listening experience. The album includes dynamic song arrangements, with shifts between fast, aggressive sections and slower, more atmospheric passages.

Total Doom has developed a cult following among crust punk and hardcore punk enthusiasts, appreciated for its raw energy and political relevance. The album received positive reviews from critics within the punk community, praised for its intensity and the band’s uncompromising stance. Doom’s work on this album has had a significant influence on the crust punk genre, inspiring countless bands with their raw sound and political message.

Total Doom by Doom stands as a landmark release in the crust punk genre, capturing the band’s ability to blend raw musical aggression with socially conscious and politically charged lyrics. The album’s uncompromising approach, thematic depth, and influential sound highlight Doom’s unique position within the punk landscape.
Conclusion

Total Doom is an essential album for fans of crust punk, hardcore punk, and those interested in politically charged music. The album’s raw production, intense performances, and critical lyrics offer a compelling and impactful listening experience. For those exploring the roots of crust punk and the contributions of pioneering bands, Total Doom provides a rich and rewarding auditory journey that captures the essence of Doom’s distinctive style and enduring influence.

Track Listing
1. Relief Pt. 2
2. Police Bastard
3. Diseased
4. Circles
5. A Means To An End
6. Sick Joke
7. No Thought
8. Black Monday
9. Nazi Die
10. Agree To Differ
11. War On Our Doorstep
12. Bury The Debt
13. Life In Freedom
14. Days Go By
15. Sold Out Scene
16. Free Yourself
17. Confusion
18. Life Lock
19. Slave To Convention
20. A Dream To Come
21. Drowning In The Mainstream
22. Same Mind
23. Relief
24. After The Bomb
25. Stop-Gap
26. Scared
27. Sick Joke
28. Natural Abuse
29. Exploitation
30. Beat The Boss
31. Money Drug
32. Fear Of The Future
33. No Religion
34. Phobia For Change
35. Multinationals
36. Obscenity
37. War Crimes