Return of the Rat - Wipers
"Return of the Rat" is a track by the American punk rock band Wipers, originally released in 1979. The song is known for its raw energy and aggressive sound, characteristic of the punk rock genre. The theme of the song revolves around feelings of disillusionment and frustration, with lyrics that reflect a sense of anger and defiance. The protagonist of the song is fed up with the world around them and is determined to fight back against the injustices they see. Musically, "Return of the Rat" is driven by a fast-paced guitar riff and pounding drumbeat, creating a sense of urgency and intensity. The lead vocals, delivered by Wipers frontman Greg Sage, are gritty and impassioned, adding to the overall sense of rebellion in the song. One notable fact about "Return of the Rat" is its influence on the punk rock and alternative music scenes. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including Nirvana, who performed a version of the song during their live shows. This has helped to cement "Return of the Rat" as a classic in the punk rock canon. Overall, "Return of the Rat" is a powerful and anthemic track that captures the spirit of punk rock with its defiant attitude and aggressive sound. It remains a standout song in Wipers' discography and a favorite among fans of the genre.
Wipers
Wipers is an American punk rock band formed in Portland, Oregon in 1977. The band was founded by singer and guitarist Greg Sage, who remains the only constant member throughout the band's history. Wipers are often credited as one of the pioneering bands of the punk rock movement in the Pacific Northwest. Greg Sage's background in music began in the late 1960s when he started playing guitar and writing songs. He was heavily influenced by bands like The Wailers and The Sonics, as well as the emerging punk rock scene in the 1970s. Sage formed Wipers with drummer Sam Henry and bassist Dave Koupal, and the band quickly gained a following in the local punk rock scene. Wipers released their debut album, "Is This Real?" in 1980, which was met with critical acclaim and is now considered a classic of the punk rock genre. The album showcased Sage's unique songwriting style, which blended punk rock aggression with melodic hooks and introspective lyrics. Wipers went on to release a string of influential albums throughout the 1980s, including "Youth of America" and "Over the Edge." Wipers had a significant impact on the punk rock and alternative music scenes, with their raw sound and DIY ethos inspiring countless bands that followed. Their music has been praised for its emotional depth and powerful guitar work, with Greg Sage's distinctive playing style earning him a reputation as one of the most underrated guitarists in rock music. Despite never achieving mainstream success, Wipers' influence can be heard in the music of bands like Nirvana, Sonic Youth, and Dinosaur Jr. Their uncompromising approach to music and commitment to their artistic vision have cemented their legacy as one of the most important bands in punk rock history.