About this album

Sound: "Frenetic punk energy collides with philosophical musings and melodic hooks, encapsulating the spirit of late '80s hardcore."

Where they were

Released on November 2, 1989, 'No Control' was Bad Religion's fifth studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Suffer' from 1988. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their status within the punk rock scene, transitioning towards a more mature sound while maintaining their signature edge.

Why it matters

'No Control' is significant not only for its critical acclaim but also for its role in shaping the melodic hardcore movement. It reached number 29 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and influenced numerous bands that followed, cementing Bad Religion's legacy as pioneers of the genre.

Essential tracks

  • "I Want to Conquer the World" — This track stands out for its ambitious lyrics that blend personal aspirations with social commentary, showcasing Bad Religion's knack for thought-provoking themes.
  • "Sanity" — With its catchy chorus and introspective lyrics, 'Sanity' perfectly captures the album's exploration of mental health and societal pressures.
  • "Automatic Man" — 'Automatic Man' represents the band's critique of conformity through its driving rhythm and infectious melody, embodying the punk ethos.
  • "The World Won’t Stop" — Closing the album on a high note, this track combines urgency with melodic precision, highlighting the relentless energy inherent in Bad Religion's music.

Release Date

November 2, 1989

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Change of Ideas 0:56
  2. 2 Big Bang 1:42
  3. 3 No Control 1:47
  4. 4 Sometimes I Feel Like 1:34
  5. 5 Automatic Man 1:40
  6. 6 I Want to Conquer the World 2:19
  7. 7 Sanity 2:44
  8. 8 Henchman 1:07
  9. 9 It Must Look Pretty Appealing 1:23
  10. 10 You 2:05
  11. 11 Progress 2:14
  12. 12 I Want Something More 0:47
  13. 13 Anxiety 2:08
  14. 14 Billy 1:54
  15. 15 The World Won’t Stop 1:57