Angels - Crass
"Angels" is a track by the English anarcho-punk band Crass, released on their album "Penis Envy" in 1981. The song features haunting, atmospheric music with spoken word vocals that discuss themes of love, loss, and the struggle for personal freedom. The composition of "Angels" is characterized by its minimalist instrumentation, with slow, droning guitar chords and sparse, eerie electronic effects creating a sense of unease and introspection. The vocals, delivered by Eve Libertine and Joy De Vivre, are spoken in a somber, almost hypnotic tone, adding to the song's haunting atmosphere. The lyrics of "Angels" explore the complexities of human relationships and the inner turmoil that can arise from love and loss. The song delves into themes of vulnerability, emotional pain, and the search for solace in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty. One notable fact about "Angels" is that it showcases Crass's experimental approach to punk music, incorporating elements of ambient music and spoken word poetry to create a unique and atmospheric sound. The song stands out as a departure from the band's more aggressive, politically charged tracks, showcasing their versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories. Overall, "Angels" is a powerful and haunting track that delves into the depths of human emotion and the struggle for personal liberation. Its atmospheric music and introspective lyrics make it a standout track in Crass's discography, demonstrating their ability to push the boundaries of punk music and create music that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
Crass
Crass was an English punk rock band formed in 1977, whose music and ethos played a pivotal role in shaping the punk movement in the UK. The band was founded by lead vocalist Steve Ignorant, guitarist and vocalist Penny Rimbaud, and vocalist Eve Libertine, among others. Crass rose to prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, with their music characterized by its raw, aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics. The band's music often addressed issues such as war, capitalism, consumerism, and social injustice, reflecting their anarchist and pacifist beliefs. Their debut album, "The Feeding of the 5000," released in 1978, was a manifesto of sorts for the band, showcasing their uncompromising stance on political and social issues. One of Crass's most notable achievements was the founding of their own record label, Crass Records, which enabled them to release their music independently and maintain complete creative control over their work. The band also made headlines for their DIY approach to producing and distributing their music, eschewing traditional music industry practices in favor of self-reliance and autonomy. Crass's impact on music extends beyond their musical output, as they were instrumental in popularizing the DIY punk ethos and inspiring a generation of musicians to challenge the status quo and use their music as a platform for social and political activism. The band's influence can be seen in the music of numerous punk and alternative rock bands that followed in their wake, as well as in the broader punk movement as a whole. Despite disbanding in 1984, Crass's legacy continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, as their music and message remain as relevant and powerful as ever. The band's uncompromising approach to music and activism has solidified their place as one of the most important and influential punk bands in history.