About this album
Where they were
By the time 'In My Head' was released in October 1985, Black Flag was navigating a transformative phase following their 1984 album 'My War'. This album marked their final studio release with vocalist Henry Rollins and showcased a shift towards more experimental sounds, reflecting the band's evolution amid the changing punk landscape.
Why it matters
'In My Head' is significant for its blend of hardcore punk and post-hardcore that influenced countless bands in the underground scene. While it didn't achieve mainstream success, it solidified Black Flag's reputation for pushing boundaries within punk music and received critical attention for its introspective lyrics and complex compositions.
Essential tracks
- "Paralyzed" — The opening track sets a chaotic tone with its urgent energy and themes of emotional struggle, encapsulating the album's raw intensity.
- "Black Love" — This song stands out for its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, highlighting a deeper emotional layer not always present in punk.
- "Society’s Tease" — With its extended runtime and complex structure, this track showcases the band's willingness to experiment beyond traditional punk confines.
Release Date
October 1, 1985
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Paralyzed 2:42
- 2 The Crazy Girl 2:51
- 3 Black Love 2:46
- 4 White Hot 5:06
- 5 In My Head 4:38
- 6 Out of This World 2:15
- 7 I Can See You 3:20
- 8 Drinking and Driving 3:23
- 9 Retired at 21 5:03
- 10 Society’s Tease 6:15
- 11 It’s All Up to You 5:20
- 12 You Let Me Down 3:42
