When It's Over - Wipers
"When It's Over" is a track by the American punk rock band Wipers, which was released on their second studio album, "Youth of America," in 1981. The song is characterized by its powerful and melancholic lyrics, delivered with raw emotion by lead singer and guitarist Greg Sage. The theme of the song revolves around the feeling of longing and loss, as the lyrics express a sense of resignation and acceptance towards the end of a relationship. The somber tone of the music, combined with Sage's haunting vocals, creates a haunting and atmospheric listening experience. Musically, "When It's Over" is driven by a hypnotic guitar riff that repeats throughout the song, creating a sense of tension and urgency. The band's tight and energetic rhythm section adds to the intensity of the track, building up to a cathartic climax towards the end. Notable facts about the song include its influence on the post-punk and alternative rock genres, with bands like Nirvana citing Wipers as a major influence on their music. "When It's Over" has also been praised by critics for its emotional depth and raw intensity, making it a standout track in Wipers' discography.
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.