Description
Pagan Babies – Next – Cassette
Pagan Babies’ album Next marks a significant entry in the late 1980s hardcore punk scene, especially coming from a band out of Philadelphia. Released in 1989, this album captures the intense energy and socially aware lyrics typical of hardcore punk, blended with influences from the broader alternative rock and crossover thrash scenes.
Pagan Babies were known in the hardcore scene for their dynamic performances and a sound that incorporated elements of punk, hardcore, and touches of metal. The band’s music often addressed themes of personal and social issues, reflecting the intense and rebellious spirit of punk culture.
Next showcases Pagan Babies’ ability to merge hardcore aggression with melodic hooks, making it a standout release in their discography. The album is characterized by its fast-paced rhythms, shouted vocals, and guitar-driven sound, all of which exemplify the hardcore genre while also pushing its boundaries through experimentation with melody and structure.
The album typically features songs are driven by rapid drum beats and fast guitar riffs, typical of hardcore punk. Unlike some more straightforward hardcore bands, Pagan Babies incorporated melodic elements that made their music accessible to a wider audience, potentially attracting fans from the alternative rock sphere. Lyrics often delve into political and social commentary, reflecting the band’s engagement with contemporary issues.
Next received positive responses from those within the hardcore community and beyond for its energetic delivery and innovative approach to punk music. While Pagan Babies may not have reached the commercial heights of some of their contemporaries, Next is often cited as a significant contribution to the hardcore genre, noted for its raw power and melodic sensibility.
Pagan Babies’ Next remains an important album for enthusiasts of hardcore punk, especially those interested in the late ’80s crossover period that saw punk bands experimenting with various musical styles. It exemplifies the vibrancy and diversity of the hardcore scene and continues to be celebrated for its aggressive yet melodic approach. For fans of punk and hardcore, Next provides a compelling insight into the innovative spirit of the genre during this era.
Roadrunner Records 9545
Track Listing
makin up for lost time
dirty knees
fuck you, I’m punk
stories of old
the bitch
exception to the rule
in a lifetime
save your breath
love
beyond fringe
boxed in
