Muse Sick-n-Hour Mess Age cover

Muse Sick-n-Hour Mess Age

Public Enemy

Album 1994

About this album

Sound: "A provocative blend of aggressive beats and politically charged lyrics that challenge societal norms."

Where they were

'Muse Sick-n-Hour Mess Age' was Public Enemy's fourth studio album, released during a time when they were experiencing both critical acclaim and commercial challenges. Following their landmark albums 'It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back' and 'Fear of a Black Planet', this record sought to maintain their powerful voice in hip-hop amidst changing musical landscapes and internal group dynamics.

Why it matters

This album is notable for its raw exploration of race, politics, and social issues, which resonated with listeners during the early '90s. It peaked at number 14 on the Billboard 200 chart and solidified Public Enemy's role as essential voices within political hip-hop, influencing subsequent artists and movements focused on social justice.

Essential tracks

  • "What Side You On?" — This track encapsulates the album's urgent call to action, blending powerful rhetoric with a captivating beat that highlights the group's commitment to activism.
  • "Race Against Time" — With its driving rhythm and incisive lyrics, this song addresses systemic injustices and reflects the urgency felt by marginalized communities during the era.
  • "Thin Line Between Law & Rape" — This track confronts the complexities of authority and violence against women, showcasing Public Enemy's willingness to tackle difficult subjects directly.
  • "Aintnuttin’ Buttersong" — The track cleverly critiques societal norms through humor and sharp lyrics while maintaining an infectious groove that represents the group's innovative approach.

Release Date

January 1, 1994

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Whole Lotta Love Goin’ on in the Middle of Hell 3:12
  2. 2 Theatrical Parts 0:25
  3. 3 Give It Up 4:33
  4. 4 What Side You On? 4:00
  5. 5 Bedlam 13:13 4:06
  6. 6 Stop in the Name… 1:20
  7. 7 What Kind of Power We Got? 5:30
  8. 8 So Whatcha Gone Do Now? 4:41
  9. 9 White Heaven / Black Hell 1:06
  10. 10 Race Against Time 3:21
  11. 11 They Used to Call It Dope 0:29
  12. 12 Aintnuttin’ Buttersong 4:35
  13. 13 Live and Undrugged, Parts 1 & 2 5:56
  14. 14 Thin Line Between Law & Rape 4:45
  15. 15 I Ain’t Mad at All 3:31
  16. 16 Death of a Carjacka 2:00
  17. 17 I Stand Accused 3:56
  18. 18 Godd Complexx 3:40
  19. 19 Hitler Day 4:24
  20. 20 Living in a Zoo (remix) 3:34