Smash It Up - The Damned
"Smash It Up" is a punk rock anthem by the British band The Damned, released in 1979. The song is known for its catchy guitar riffs, driving rhythm, and rebellious lyrics that speak to the band's anti-establishment ethos. The theme of the song revolves around the idea of destruction and chaos as a form of rebellion against societal norms. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and anger towards the world, urging listeners to break free from conformity and smash things up in order to find their own sense of liberation. Musically, "Smash It Up" is characterized by its energetic and aggressive sound, with fast-paced drums and distorted guitars driving the song forward. The chorus is particularly anthemic, with the repeated refrain of "Smash it up, smash it up, smash it up" encouraging listeners to embrace their rebellious spirit. One notable fact about "Smash It Up" is that it was actually released as a double A-side single, with two separate versions of the song – Part 1 and Part 2. Part 1 features a more polished production, while Part 2 is a rawer, more chaotic take on the track. Both versions have become fan favorites and are often performed live by the band. Overall, "Smash It Up" is a classic punk rock anthem that has stood the test of time, inspiring generations of fans to embrace their rebellious spirit and smash things up in the pursuit of freedom and self-expression.
The Damned
The Damned is a legendary English punk rock band that was formed in 1976 in London. The band is considered one of the pioneers of the punk rock movement in the United Kingdom and has had a significant influence on the music industry since their inception. The original lineup of The Damned consisted of Dave Vanian on vocals, Brian James on guitar, Captain Sensible on bass, and Rat Scabies on drums. The band quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live performances and rebellious attitude, becoming a key figure in the early punk scene. In 1977, The Damned released their debut album, "Damned Damned Damned," which is considered one of the first punk rock albums to be released in the UK. The album received critical acclaim and helped solidify the band's place in the punk rock movement. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, The Damned continued to release music and tour extensively, gaining a dedicated fan base in the process. The band's sound evolved over the years, incorporating elements of gothic rock, new wave, and pop punk, while still maintaining their punk rock roots. Some of The Damned's most notable achievements include being the first UK punk band to release a single, album, and tour the United States. They have also been credited with helping to popularize the punk rock genre and inspire countless other bands to follow in their footsteps. In addition to their musical contributions, The Damned have also been known for their wild and unpredictable behavior, often getting into trouble with the law and causing controversy with their antics. Overall, The Damned have had a lasting impact on the music industry, influencing countless bands and artists across various genres. Their rebellious spirit, unique sound, and enduring legacy have cemented their status as one of the most important punk rock bands of all time.