Black Flag - Damaged

Founded by guitarist/songwriter Greg Ginn, Black Flag exploded out of L.A. in 1981 with a debut album so confrontational that MCA Records refused to release it, stating that Black Flag was "immoral" and lacking "redeeming social value." When the album finally came out on Ginn's own SST label, it was clear why MCA recoiled, as Black Flag's skinhead look and hardcore sound signaled a new chapter in punk--and rock in general. With Henry Rollins's venom-dripping vocals leading the way, the album features such hostile teeth-gnashers as "Rise Above" ("Try to stop us/It's no use"), "Six Pack" ("I got a six pack, and nothing to do"), and, of course, "Life of Pain." --Billy Altman Amazon.com

"Harcore Punk in it's purest form"

Henry Rollins' strained, angst filled voice compliments the raw sound of his band in Black Flag's first, full fledged album, 'Damaged'. Listening to this record brings upon a retro feel with the 'very dated production'; you almost feel like your right alongside Black Flag, circa 1981, pumping your fist to eight, beer-fueled, anti-establishment anthems. This is Harcore Punk in it's purest form-comprised of true aggression,fast instrumentals and social protest; the culture was initiated by bands like Black Flag, Bad Brains and Minor Threat. The movement would later spawn a vast array of imitators for years to come, reinforcing the name, 'Black Flag' as an icon in the subcultures of Rock Music. If you have not had the chance to listen to this album, pick it up now. September 17, 2008

We Are Born With a Chance!

Tired of the crappy bands that MTV says that is "punk"? Tired of whiny emo bands out there? Tired of "hardcore" bands like the God-awful My Chemical Romance, Insane Clown Posse and God forbid Limp Bizkit? Do you want a real punk record? A punk record that will make your parents cringe and your friends tremble? Well look no further than Black Flag's Damaged.
Formed from Hermosa Beach in LA, Black Flag invented a new version of punk, one that's faster and heaver than the Ramones and the Sex Pistols help made. It was more menacing and more abrasive. And they called it hardcore. Does this album really make your loved ones want to staple the ears shut or is it no better than today's MTV's family friendly punk rock? Read on for my review!

Released in 1981, Black Flag finally recorded a full length album after three EP's and disputes from previous singers mainly Keith Morris and Ron Reyes. Dez didn't want to sing anymore so he switched to rhythm guitar. So who's singing on this punk classic? Enter Henry Rollins, S.O.A's former frontman. And let me tell you, his harsh vocals and his powerful screams make him a more menacing vocalist than Morris, Reyes or Dez, despite what others say. Rise Above is a great way to kick start the album and gets better at the album progress. Greg Ginn is the best punk rock guitarist known to man. His noise solos make a mockery of guitar players like Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, and Michael Anglo Batio. Chuck's bass has a neat distorted sound and ROBO's drumming and Dez's guitar playing keeps the beat going. And as stated Earilar, Henry Rollins vocals is powerful, raw, and angry. So what are you waitng for? Buy this punk classic and give MTV a good kick to the balls!

Recommended Tracks: Rise Above, Six Pack, TV Party, Police Story, Depression, Room 13, Damaged 1 July 30, 2008

Punk at Its Best

Damged is a powerful onslaught of musical anger from the begining of the album. The minute I turned it on for the first time and heard the intro to "Rise Above" I was amazed by the pure furry and intensity of the album ,so amazed I could not help myself from smiling. Its was increbible and exactley the type of music I plan on listening to for the rest of my life. After "Rise Above" the album moves right into "Spray Paint the Walls" another powerful onslaught that will always amaze me. Every song on the album was incredible other favorites of mine are "Six Pack", "T.V. Party" , "Police Story" and "Damaged 2". These songs all present to the listeners the exact things that made punk good anger, angst, intensity, hatered, and the idea that these people making this music would die for this music. This is an album that will never grow old and is a worthy adition to any true punk rock fans album collection. July 13, 2008

Damaged

Black Flag-Damaged *****

Damaged is one of the most angry, most intelligently unrelenting punk albums of all time by one of the genres greatest band Black Flag, to which all those descriptions apply as well. To many Damaged is the quintessential hardcore punk album. To me it's close, only losing to Bad Brains' self titled debut.

Rollins vocals are angry and raw making the lyrics more powerful. You can really feel his aggression. Ginn guitar is some of the best in punk history, he was truly a great player in his day.

Songs like albums incredible opener 'Rise Above' which is my personal theme song, and the classic among classics 'T.V. Party' are essential. 'Spray Paint' and 'Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie' embody the hardcore movement better then maybe any other song of the time. The two parted title track 'Damaged II' and 'Damaged I' are genius. Branching out from just punk to genres such as jazz and metal all in one song. Though that was something that Black Flag had always been known for.

Don't be fooled, Henry Rollins is THE Black Flag singer. Sure he wasn't the first, or the second, I don't even think he was the third, but he was the best. He was the longest lasting for a reason, and this is the best example of his power to enjoy. April 16, 2008

Somthin' Goin' On Here...

While I've never been a big punk fan, I do enjoy this album. There just seems to be something more going on here, than on most punk albums.

And if you are a big punk fan, don't use my rating as a guide, as you'll likely enjoy this much more than I did. February 2, 2008

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