Artist: Circle Jerks Album: Group Sex

Year: 1980
Duration: 0:0-1

Exploring the Raw and Rebellious Sounds of Circle Jerks' Group Sex

When it comes to punk rock music, few bands were as bold and brazen as Circle Jerks. The Los Angeles-based outfit made a name for themselves in the early 80s with their explosive live shows and unapologetic lyrics. And while they released several albums throughout their career, none was more praised than their debut LP, Group Sex. In this critical review, we'll take a closer look at this seminal work and delve into its history, sound, standout tracks, and overall impact.

The band formed in 1979, featuring Keith Morris (formerly of Black Flag) on vocals, Greg Hetson on guitar, Roger Rogerson on bass, and Lucky Lehrer on drums. Their name was a nod to a vulgar L.A. term for a group masturbation session, a fitting moniker for a band that reveled in controversy and anti-establishment themes. Group Sex arrived in 1980 on Frontier Records, an upstart label that focused on the burgeoning hardcore punk scene.

The album's sound is frantic and frenzied, with blistering guitar riffs, pummeling drums, and Morris' throaty, urgent vocals. Clocking in at just over 16 minutes, the LP is a dizzying blast of raw energy and rebellion. The songs touch on themes like social alienation (Deny Everything), sexual deviance (Wasted), and political corruption (Beverly Hills). There are also covers of classic punk tunes like Red Tape by The Stiff Little Fingers and Wild in the Streets by Garland Jeffreys.

Standout tracks on the album include Wild in the Streets, which became a fan favorite for its anthemic chorus and punk rock swagger. Deny Everything is another highlight, with its catchy guitar riff and snarling lyrics about not fitting in. I Just Want Some Skank and Beverly Hills are both fast and furious tracks that rail against the superficiality of L.A. culture and the rich elite.

The album is often praised for its influence on the hardcore punk scene and its DIY ethos. Circle Jerks were part of a larger movement that rejected the slick production values and commercialism of mainstream rock music, instead opting for a raw, lo-fi sound and an independent spirit. However, some critics have criticized the band for its juvenile humor, misogyny, and lack of musical sophistication. While these criticisms are not entirely unfounded, it's important to view Group Sex as a product of its time and place, and appreciate its contributions to punk rock history.

In conclusion, Circle Jerks' Group Sex remains a landmark release in the world of punk rock. It captured the raw energy and rebellious spirit of a burgeoning music scene, while also showcasing the band's unique voice and attitude. Though it may not be for everyone, fans of punk rock and DIY culture should definitely check out this classic LP and experience the unbridled fury of Circle Jerks.