About this album
Where they were
For God and Country is Good Riddance's second album, released just after their debut, 1994's Captive. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their identity within the hardcore punk scene, particularly emphasizing socially conscious themes. Their sound matured from the rawness of their earlier work, showcasing tighter instrumentation and more polished production.
Why it matters
This album helped establish Good Riddance as a significant voice in the 1990s punk scene, receiving positive reviews that highlighted its lyrical depth. It has been noted for influencing later punk bands and has become a staple in the genre's discourse on social issues.
Essential tracks
- "Flies First Class" — The opening track sets an aggressive tone with its rapid-fire tempo and biting lyrics about societal apathy, encapsulating the band's ethos.
- "Better" — This track combines melodic hooks with incisive critiques of complacency, exemplifying the balance between aggression and melody that defines the album.
- "Mother Superior" — With its introspective lyrics and dynamic shifts, this song stands out as a personal reflection amidst the album's broader critiques, showcasing emotional depth.
- "Boys and Girls" — This track addresses gender dynamics directly, making it one of the album's more pointed political statements wrapped in catchy punk energy.
Release Date
January 1, 1995
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Flies First Class 2:39
- 2 Better 2:22
- 3 All Fall Down 2:00
- 4 United Cigar 2:46
- 5 Decoy 2:46
- 6 Boys and Girls 3:00
- 7 Mother Superior 3:05
- 8 Twelve Year Circus 2:45
- 9 Man of God 1:42
- 10 Lisa 2:44
- 11 Wrong Again 2:42
- 12 October 2:10