Major General Despair - Crass
"Major General Despair" is a track by the British anarcho-punk band Crass, released on their album "Christ - The Album" in 1982. The song is a scathing critique of war, militarism, and the power structures that perpetuate violence and oppression. The composition of the song is characterized by its intense, fast-paced punk rock sound, with driving guitar riffs and pounding drums. The lyrics are delivered with a sense of urgency and anger, reflecting the band's revolutionary ethos and commitment to social change. One notable aspect of "Major General Despair" is its use of spoken word samples, including excerpts from speeches by political figures and news broadcasts. These samples add depth to the song's message and provide a context for the band's anti-authoritarian stance. Overall, "Major General Despair" is a powerful and provocative track that remains relevant in today's world, where issues of war, inequality, and injustice continue to plague society. Crass's uncompromising lyrics and aggressive sound make this song a standout in their discography and a rallying cry for those who seek to challenge the status quo.
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.