What makes Headache by Big Black notable?

The EP gained critical acclaim for its fusion of punk energy and industrial noise elements, influencing the burgeoning noise rock scene of the late 1980s. It was also pivotal in cementing Big Black's place as a key act in the post-hardcore movement, with influential publications like Spin highlighting its impact on future artists. When 'Headache' was released in 1987, Big Black was solidifying their reputation within the underground music scene after their 1986 debut album 'Nerds'. This EP marks a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a more refined yet still aggressive style as the band prepared for greater visibility in alternative rock.

How many songs are on Headache?

Headache has 4 tracks, running approximately 11 minutes.

Headache

Big Black · 1987

11 min · 4 tracks · alternative rock

A raw, unrelenting barrage of noise rock that channels discontent through abrasive guitar riffs and confrontational lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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My Disco — This track encapsulates the EP's ethos with its relentless tempo and stark social commentary reflecting disillusionment with modern life.
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Grinder — Featuring an explosive energy and heavy distortion, this song stands out for its visceral portrayal of violence and societal decay.
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Pete, King of All Detectives — This track exemplifies Big Black's narrative style, using dark humor to critique crime and media sensationalism while maintaining a driving rhythm.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

69 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

This EP showcases a unique blend of punk and industrial noise, marked by its raw energy and distinct sound.

What we noticed

The EP opens with a relentless tempo and abrasive guitar riffs that set a confrontational tone.
Each track features heavy distortion and aggressive drumming, maintaining a high energy level throughout.
The lyrics are delivered in a shouted style, emphasizing the raw emotion behind the music.
The final track ends abruptly, leaving a sense of unresolved tension that characterizes the overall sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 My Disco 2:51
2 Grinder 2:22
3 Ready Men 3:51
4 Pete, King of All Detectives 2:41

What to play next

Listen next

Pigpile

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Go back to

The Hammer Party

1986

Full Big Black discography Artists like Big Black

alternative rock post-hardcore post-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata