About this album
Where they were
Released in 1983, 'The First Four Years' is a compilation that chronicles Black Flag's formative years, featuring tracks from their early EPs and singles. This album came after their influential debut 'Damaged' and reflects the band's transition from local LA punk legends to national icons. At this point, Black Flag had solidified their reputation for relentless touring and confrontational music.
Why it matters
This album is significant for encapsulating the early sound of hardcore punk, influencing countless bands within the genre. It also showcased Black Flag's defiance against mainstream music norms, contributing to the burgeoning punk movement in America at the time. The raw energy and brevity of the songs resonated deeply with fans, making it a staple in punk rock history.
Essential tracks
- "Nervous Breakdown" — This track exemplifies the band's aggressive sound and lyrical themes of anxiety and frustration, setting the stage for hardcore punk's intensity.
- "Jealous Again" — With its driving rhythm and urgent vocals, this song captures the emotional turmoil central to Black Flag’s ethos, showcasing their evolution in songwriting.
- "Six Pack" — A quintessential anthem reflecting youth rebellion, 'Six Pack' combines humor with biting commentary, embodying the spirit of the early punk scene.
- "American Waste" — 'American Waste' offers a scathing critique of societal issues, highlighting Black Flag's ability to merge personal angst with broader cultural commentary.
Release Date
January 1, 1983
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Nervous Breakdown 2:07
- 2 Fix Me 0:55
- 3 I’ve Had It 1:20
- 4 Wasted 0:51
- 5 Jealous Again 1:47
- 6 Revenge 0:58
- 7 White Minority 1:04
- 8 No Values 1:04
- 9 You Bet We’ve Got Something Personal Against You! 0:51
- 10 Clocked In 1:30
- 11 Six Pack 2:18
- 12 I’ve Heard It Before 1:38
- 13 American Waste 1:30
- 14 Machine 1:25
- 15 Louie Louie 1:17
- 16 Damaged I 4:05