What makes Class of 98 by 98 Mute notable?

This album received positive critical reception, with publications highlighting its energetic sound and lyrical content reflecting societal issues of the time. Notably, it contributed to the resurgence of interest in punk rock as a voice for disaffected youth in the late '90s, influencing subsequent bands in the genre. Class of 98 is 98 Mute's third album, following their 1997 release and marking a period of increasing recognition within the punk rock scene. By this point, the band had established a solid fanbase and was honing their sound, which reflected the raw intensity and rebellious spirit characteristic of the genre during this era.

How many songs are on Class of 98?

Class of 98 has 14 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Class of 98

98 Mute · 1998

35 min · 14 tracks · punk rock

Frenetic punk rock energy surges through sharp riffs and anthemic choruses that echo the urgency of late '90s youth culture.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Election Year — This track encapsulates the band's critique of political apathy through its driving rhythm and catchy hooks, making it a rallying cry for listeners.
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Breakdown — With its explosive instrumentation and urgent vocals, this song serves as a powerful reflection on personal struggles and societal pressures.
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Open Your Eyes — This closing track combines introspective lyrics with an anthemic chorus, leaving listeners with a sense of urgency to engage with the world around them.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album captures the frenetic energy of late '90s punk but doesn't fully stand out in terms of songwriting or production.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a relentless tempo, with tracks averaging around two to three minutes each, creating a sense of urgency.
Several songs feature call-and-response vocals that engage listeners and enhance the anthemic quality of the choruses.
The last three tracks slow down slightly in tempo, allowing for a moment of reflection before concluding with a more subdued tone.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Ask Yourself 2:33
2 How Do You Feel Now 2:11
3 Election Year 2:41
4 Breakdown 2:30
5 Shine 2:49
6 Great Expectations 2:25
7 Hangman 1:32
8 Growing Old 1:56
9 Perfect Sense 2:38
10 Slander 2:43
11 Short Fuse 2:13
12 Open Your Eyes 2:53
13 Picture This 2:05
14 Watch Over Me... 4:00

What to play next

Listen next

Slow Motion Riot

2000

Go back to

98 Mute

1996

Full 98 Mute discography Artists like 98 Mute

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata