What a Shame - Crass
"What a Shame" by Crass is a powerful punk rock track that was released on their album "Penis Envy" in 1981. The song addresses the issue of domestic violence and the societal tendency to turn a blind eye to such abuse. The lyrics criticize the normalization of violence within relationships and call for a change in attitudes towards this issue. Musically, "What a Shame" features aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drums, and intense vocals that convey a sense of urgency and anger. The raw energy of the song adds to its impact, making it a standout track on the album. Notable facts about "What a Shame" include its controversial subject matter and the band's fearless approach to addressing social and political issues. Crass were known for their outspoken activism and their music served as a platform for raising awareness about important issues such as feminism, anti-war sentiments, and animal rights. Overall, "What a Shame" is a hard-hitting track that showcases Crass's boldness and commitment to using music as a tool for social change.
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.