If you don't like this, you probably were not there...
David C. Johnson | Spencer, MA USA | 03/26/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have to admit, if I wasn't in the "hardcore" scene when this album came out I probably wouldn't have been interested. But I was, and this album hold a special place in my heart. It sounds dated now, but this album pegged the anger and agression of this musical scene. Add on to it the experience of seeing SOIA live (an unequalled experience) and you have a seminal hardcore album.Its a must have for anyone looking to understand hardcore roots, and for nostagia for those who listened to this music "back in the day"..."
NYHC intensity, in my opinion their best release
J. Hoekenga | Fort Worth, TX | 03/25/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Full of intensity and power, you can't go wrong with this classic piece of NYHC. As the man says, SOIA were "spreadin' the hardcore reality in '89." The vocals get me every time: it's not the same "screamed at the top of the lungs" paradigm as other HC albums. More shouted, from the gut, full of a brooding, seething anger, rather than all-out rage. Makes for a great listen.
Highlights: "Blood and the Sweat," "Breeders of Hate," "Friends Like You," "G.I. Joe Headstomp," "Disillusion," "Injustice System.""