This 1977 release comes in at number 13 on the Best of the 70's list. If the Ramones set the formula for punk and The Clash added in the political angry tone of punk, then The Sex Pistols added the over the top, physical rowdiness of punk. Because of that it is easy to dismiss this album and the Pistols as nothing more than a big show, a stage act put together by some men in a backroom to create a monetary opportunity for their label. In essence it's easy to label the Pistols as anti-punk if you so choose.The problem with doing that is you miss why this album is so great. It has 12 solid songs. All have great hooks, all have great lyrics. From the moment the album starts they hook you in and never let go with the pace, the rage, everything. For what it is it is almost perfect and it's no surprise that it inspired so many copy catters who failed miserably because they could never match the content of this album.
Anytime you're angry at the government throw this on and it will make you smile.
Following the Rhapsody rating method I give it 4 out of 5 stars for Really Good.
This was a very thought-provoking review. To be honest, I really did think of the Sex Pistols as just a made-up, contrived group -- sort of like the Monkees.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, having heard this clip, I'm shifting back toward my original opinion. This sounds like a bad imitation of Tuff Darts.
ReplyDeleteYeah but this is two years before the Tuff Darts.
ReplyDeleteFair point.
ReplyDeleteConversation over dinner last night ...
ReplyDeleteWIFE: How are the Vaughns? How do they like Idaho? How's the little girl? Does Matthew like his job?
ME, blankly: Ummm ...?
WIFE, exasperated: How many stars did he give the new Rihanna album?