Wipers – Youth Of America

Youth of America by Wipers is a seminal album that defied punk conventions with its expansive compositions and introspective themes. Released in 1981, the album's title track stretches over ten minutes, showcasing Greg Sage's innovative approach to songwriting and production. The album's fusion of punk energy with krautrock influences created a sound that was ahead of its time, resonating with listeners seeking depth and complexity in music.

The album's impact has been recognized in various retrospectives. Pitchfork included Youth of America in its list of "The 200 Best Albums of the 1980s," highlighting its enduring relevance and influence on subsequent generations of musicians. The album's exploration of societal issues and personal disillusionment continues to resonate, solidifying its place as a cornerstone in the evolution of alternative rock.

Reviews

"His follow-up, Youth of America, took this iconoclastic bent even further, placing dour monologues about the grim state of the union up against feedback-addled guitar solos." – Pitchfork

"A grizzly, furious beast of a 30-minute record" – Allmusic