Cro Mags: The Underground April 17
On April 17, 1986, a pivotal moment in the history of hardcore punk occurred. It was on this day that the legendary band Cro Mags released their groundbreaking album, “The Underground.” This album, which has since become a cornerstone of the genre, has left an indelible mark on punk rock and metal fans alike. Let’s delve into the multifaceted aspects of this iconic album and the band behind it.
The Band: Cro Mags
Cro Mags, formed in 1981 in New York City, was one of the original hardcore punk bands. The band’s lineup included vocalist John Joseph, guitarist Louie Corra, bassist David Karp, and drummer Tony Bova. Their music was characterized by its raw energy, political lyrics, and a blend of punk and metal influences. The band’s name, “Cro Mags,” is a portmanteau of “Cromagnon,” a term used to describe early humans, and “mags,” short for “maggots,” reflecting the band’s view of the corrupt society they were fighting against.
The Album: The Underground
“The Underground” was Cro Mags’ second studio album and their first for Relativity Records. The album was produced by the legendary Rick Rubin, who had previously worked with bands like Slayer and Metallica. The album’s title, “The Underground,” was a nod to the band’s roots in the hardcore punk scene and their desire to reach beyond the confines of that genre.
The album features 10 tracks, each with its own unique style and message. The opening track, “We Gotta Know,” sets the tone for the album with its fast-paced, aggressive guitar riffs and John Joseph’s passionate vocals. The album’s standout track, “Warriors of the Underground,” is a powerful anthem that celebrates the struggle for justice and equality. Other notable tracks include “The Age of Quarrel,” “The New Dark Age,” and “The Final Conflict.”
Lyrics and Message
One of the defining aspects of “The Underground” is its political and social commentary. John Joseph’s lyrics are raw and unapologetic, addressing issues such as racism, poverty, and the corrupt nature of the government. The album’s message is one of unity, resistance, and hope, encouraging listeners to fight for a better world.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the album’s key lyrics:
| Track | Lyric |
|---|---|
| Warriors of the Underground | “We are the warriors of the underground, fighting for the right to live, fighting for the right to survive.” |
| The Age of Quarrel | “In the age of quarrel, we stand united, fighting for the truth, fighting for the light.” |
| The New Dark Age | “In the new dark age, we’ll rise again, fighting for the future, fighting for the pain.” |
Reception and Legacy
“The Underground” was met with critical acclaim upon its release. The album’s raw energy, powerful lyrics, and innovative sound helped to solidify Cro Mags’ place as one of the leading bands in the hardcore punk scene. The album has since been hailed as a classic and is often cited as one of the greatest hardcore punk albums of all time.
The album’s influence can be seen in the works of countless bands that followed in Cro Mags’ footsteps. Its message of unity, resistance, and hope continues to resonate with fans around the world, making “The Underground” an enduring piece of punk rock history.
In conclusion, “The Underground” by Cro Mags is a landmark album that has left an indelible mark on the punk rock and metal genres. Its raw energy, powerful lyrics, and innovative sound have made it a classic that continues to inspire and unite fans worldwide. On April 17, 1986, Cro Mags released an album that would change the course of music history, and its legacy endures to this day.
