Chairman of the Bored - Crass
"Chairman of the Bored" by Crass is a punk rock track that was released on their album "Feeding of the 5000" in 1978. The song's theme revolves around the idea of societal alienation and disillusionment, with the lyrics critiquing the monotony and conformity of everyday life. The title itself is a play on words, combining the concept of being bored with the imagery of a chairman who is in charge but ultimately unfulfilled. Musically, the song is characterized by its fast tempo, aggressive guitar riffs, and raw vocals. The band's DIY ethos is evident in the production, with a stripped-down sound that adds to the overall intensity of the track. The repetitive nature of the lyrics and the driving rhythm create a sense of urgency and frustration, mirroring the song's themes of restlessness and dissatisfaction. "Chairman of the Bored" is a standout track in Crass's discography, known for its powerful lyrics and energetic performance. It has since become a punk anthem, resonating with listeners who feel disillusioned with the status quo and yearn for something more meaningful. The song's message remains relevant today, serving as a reminder to question authority and challenge societal norms.
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.