Scared Stiff - Wipers
"Scared Stiff" by the Wipers is a post-punk track that was released in 1983 on their album "Over the Edge". The song features a driving guitar riff and intense drumming that create a sense of urgency and tension throughout the track. The lyrics of "Scared Stiff" convey feelings of paranoia and fear, with lines like "scared stiff, scared stiff, scared stiff, I'm scared" repeated throughout the song. The protagonist seems to be trapped in a state of anxiety and unease, with the music mirroring these emotions through its frantic pace and intense energy. One notable aspect of the song is the raw, emotive vocal delivery of frontman Greg Sage, whose passionate performance adds to the overall intensity of the track. The production is minimalistic yet powerful, with a strong focus on the driving rhythm section and distorted guitar tones. Overall, "Scared Stiff" is a standout track in the Wipers' discography, showcasing their ability to blend punk energy with introspective lyrics and a sense of unease. It remains a fan favorite and a staple of the post-punk 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.