American Psycho cover

American Psycho

Misfits · 1997

42 min · 18 tracks · hardcore punk

Frenetic guitar riffs and relentless punk energy underscore dark, horror-themed lyrics with a tongue-in-cheek approach.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Dig Up Her Bones — This track exemplifies the Misfits' signature sound, combining catchy melodies with macabre lyrics that reflect their horror-punk roots. Its infectious chorus has made it a fan favorite and staple in live performances.
  • →
    American Psycho Start here — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of violence and societal critique, featuring driving rhythms and anthemic hooks that resonate with the band's legacy. Its direct connection to Bret Easton Ellis's novel adds a layer of cultural commentary.
  • →
    The Hunger — With its relentless pace and visceral imagery, this track showcases the band's ability to blend humor and horror seamlessly. It stands out for its dynamic shifts, illustrating the Misfits' evolution while staying true to their roots.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic punk with dark themes, showcasing solid craftsmanship but limited depth over time.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a fast-paced track that sets a relentless tempo, maintaining high energy through the first half.
  • Several tracks feature abrupt tempo shifts, such as 'The Hunger,' which slows down briefly before returning to frenetic rhythms.
  • Lyrics often reference horror themes and pop culture, delivered with a tongue-in-cheek attitude that contrasts with the aggressive instrumentation.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short, intense listening bursts
  • quick, energetic engagement
  • dark, thematic storytelling
  • frantic pacing and urgency
  • late-night adrenaline rush

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Reestablished Misfits' presence in the music scene after a long hiatus.
Career context
Released in 1997, American Psycho marked the Misfits' first studio album since reuniting with original members after a long hiatus. This album served as a significant comeback, showcasing a new era for the band while maintaining their signature horror punk aesthetic.
Stylistic neighbors
The Damned· AFI· Balzac

Tracklist

  • 1 Abominable Dr. Phibes 1:42
  • 2 American Psycho Start here 2:06
  • 3 Speak of the Devil 1:48
  • 4 Walk Among Us 1:23
  • 5 The Hunger 1:43
  • 6 From Hell They Came 2:16
  • 7 Dig Up Her Bones 3:00
  • 8 Blacklight 1:27
  • 9 Resurrection 1:30
  • 10 Dead Kings Rise 3:05
  • 11 This Island Earth 2:15
  • 12 Crimson Ghost 2:01
  • 13 Day of the Dead 1:50
  • 14 The Haunting 1:26
  • 15 Mars Attacks 2:28
  • 16 Hate the Living, Love the Dead 1:37
  • 17 Shining 2:59
  • 18 Don’t Open ’til Doomsday / Hellnight 7:58

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata