A purity no mind can grasp.

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Hardcore Bands You Should Know
Band #1: Black Flag

I’d like to introduce everyone to the godfathers of hardcore: Black Flag. To realize how and why they are called the godfathers of hardcore punk, let’s think about what they added to punk rock in the first place. First, they took the formula that The Ramones made - speed, simplicity, rawness - and made it much more intense and spastic, with lyrics about insanity, paranoia, and rebellion. Second, they introduced the world to the “do it yourself” (also known as DIY) method of album distribution, as well as a logo that everyone could easily recognize. Lastly, their live shows were notorious for slam dancing, which didn’t exist prior to their time. Their debut album, “Damaged”, showcases their sudden tempo changes, their dirty guitar riffs, and Henry Rollins’ rabid vocal delivery that became the template for punk rock for the next ten years. “Damaged” is even cited by Rolling Stone magazine as one of The Greatest Albums of All Time. But oddly enough, it was their more experimental, darker albums, “My War” and “Slip It In”, that influenced other bands in more innovative ways than “Damaged” did, such as Mudhoney. In case you ever doubt Black Flag’s influence in music culture, especially hardcore punk, just play a Rotting Out or Ceremony song, and you’ll definitely hear Black Flag ringing in their ears as well as yours.

Recommended Album: Damaged
Recommended Songs: Nervous Breakdown, Rise Above, Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie, Police Story, My War

“Rise above, we’re gonna rise above! We are tired of your abuse! Try to stop us, but it’s no use!”