Systematic Death - Crass
"Systematic Death" by Crass is a politically charged punk rock track that was released on their album "Stations of the Crass" in 1979. The song addresses the oppressive nature of government institutions and criticizes the systematic violence and control that they impose on society. The lyrics highlight themes of rebellion, resistance, and the struggle for freedom against oppressive systems. The composition of the song is aggressive and intense, with fast-paced drumming, distorted guitars, and shouted vocals. The raw energy and urgency of the music mirror the anger and frustration expressed in the lyrics. The repetitive chorus of "Systematic death / They've got a system for death" drives home the message of the song and emphasizes the bleak and oppressive reality that the band is railing against. One notable fact about "Systematic Death" is that it is considered a seminal track in the punk rock genre and is often cited as a classic example of Crass's confrontational and uncompromising approach to music and activism. The band's DIY ethos and commitment to political activism are evident in the song's lyrics and sound, making it a powerful and influential piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
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.