Description
D.O.A. – Murder – Cassette
D.O.A.’s Murder, released in 1990, is a quintessential hardcore punk album that exemplifies the energy, aggression, and political edge that defines the Canadian punk legends. Formed in Vancouver, D.O.A. is often credited as one of the pioneering bands of hardcore punk, with a sound and message that influenced countless bands in the genre. Murder came after a decade of politically charged, high-energy albums that solidified the band’s reputation as punk provocateurs. In this album, D.O.A. delivers more of their signature sound: gritty, fast-paced, and laced with anti-authoritarian themes.
Murder captures the relentless energy that D.O.A. is known for, combining elements of punk rock, hardcore, and rock ‘n’ roll. The album has a raw, straightforward production that preserves the grit and intensity of the band’s live sound. Fast guitar riffs, pounding drums, and snarling vocals from frontman Joey “Shithead” Keithley drive each track, with the band’s signature style of mixing classic punk elements with hard rock influences. Songs on Murder are generally short, direct, and full of rebellious spirit, true to the hardcore punk ethos.
Lyrically, Murder stays consistent with D.O.A.’s tradition of politically charged messaging, with songs that address issues such as social justice, anti-establishment sentiment, and disillusionment with modern society. In tracks like “We Know What You Want” and “No Productivity,” D.O.A. critiques systems of control and societal expectations, while other songs, such as “The Agony and the Ecstasy,” explore themes of personal struggle and endurance. Murder reflects the band’s commitment to speaking truth to power, with a sense of urgency that gives the album its fierce edge.
Notable Tracks on Murder
“We Know What You Want” – Opening the album with a blistering pace, this track critiques societal expectations and manipulation, encapsulating the album’s anti-authoritarian stance.
“The Agony and the Ecstasy” – This track brings a darker tone, exploring the themes of personal conflict and endurance, with a gritty vocal delivery that adds weight to the lyrics.
“No Productivity” – This track tackles the monotonous nature of daily life and the stifling effect of societal expectations, with a sound that combines punk and hard rock elements, giving it a powerful, anthemic feel.
“Concrete Beach” – One of the most memorable songs on the album, “Concrete Beach” takes on themes of urban decay and disenfranchisement, with heavy guitar riffs and a driving beat that enhance its gritty message.
While Murder may not be D.O.A.’s most commercially successful album, it is regarded as a solid entry in their discography and remains a fan favorite for its intense energy and no-holds-barred messaging. The album captures the essence of D.O.A.’s music: direct, politically charged, and unapologetically rebellious. D.O.A. helped shape the hardcore punk scene, and Murder stands as a testament to the band’s ongoing commitment to using punk as a vehicle for social commentary and protest.
Murder reflects the band’s DIY ethos and solidifies their influence within the punk and hardcore scenes, especially as one of the few bands from the era that continued to produce politically meaningful punk music into the 1990s. For listeners interested in politically charged punk rock that balances aggression with a raw, straightforward sound, Murder is an album that captures D.O.A.’s essence and their relentless dedication to punk’s rebellious spirit. As one of the key albums in their catalog, it’s essential listening for hardcore punk fans and anyone exploring the roots and enduring influence of politically conscious punk rock.
Restless Records 1990
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Song List
We Know What You Want
Afrikana Security
Guns, Booze And Sex
Waiting For You (Part 2)
Boomtown
No Productivity
Agony And The Ecstasy, The
Midnight Special, The
Banana Land
Warrior Lives Again, The
Concrete Beach
Suicidal
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