Youth of America - Wipers
"Youth of America" by the Wipers is a seminal track from the band's second album of the same name, released in 1981. The song is an epic, sprawling masterpiece that clocks in at over 10 minutes long and showcases the band's unique blend of punk, post-punk, and alternative rock. The theme of "Youth of America" reflects the disillusionment and anger of the youth at the time, with lyrics that touch on themes of alienation, frustration, and a yearning for something more. The song captures the restless energy and rebellious spirit of youth culture, making it an anthem for disaffected youth everywhere. Musically, "Youth of America" is a tour de force, with its hypnotic guitar riffs, driving bassline, and pounding drums creating a sense of urgency and intensity. The song builds and builds, reaching a frenzied climax before slowly fading out, leaving the listener with a sense of catharsis. Notable for its length and unconventional structure, "Youth of America" has been praised by critics and fans alike for its raw energy and emotional depth. It has become a classic of the punk and alternative rock genres, solidifying the Wipers' reputation as one of the most influential bands of the era.
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.