What makes Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing by Discharge notable?

The album is widely regarded as a seminal work in the hardcore genre, influencing countless bands across punk and metal scenes. Its confrontational themes and sonic intensity contributed to its recognition as a classic, earning high praise from critics and fans alike, while also charting on various UK independent charts. 'Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing' is Discharge's second studio album, released in 1982 following their influential debut 'Why.' At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their role as pioneers of the hardcore punk movement, with a sound that was becoming increasingly aggressive and politically charged.

Who is Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing for?

Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing works well if you're into urgent bursts of raw energy, cathartic release through intensity and short tracks for quick engagement.

How many songs are on Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing?

Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing has 26 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing

Discharge · 1982

56 min · 26 tracks · hardcore punk

Raw and relentless, this album channels chaos through blistering riffs and unyielding vocal ferocity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Protest and Survive — This track encapsulates the band's anti-establishment ethos with its urgent tempo and biting lyrics, serving as an anthem for disillusionment.
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The Nightmare Continues — With its relentless energy and vivid imagery of despair, this song highlights Discharge's ability to convey social critique through sheer sonic power.
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State Violence State Control — This track exemplifies the band's signature blend of political commentary and raw aggression, making it a hallmark of their legacy within punk music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's intensity and thematic focus solidify its status as a hardcore punk classic.

What we noticed

The album features 26 tracks, with most songs averaging around one to two minutes in length, creating a relentless pace.
Many tracks begin with a brief intro or feedback before launching into fast-paced riffs and aggressive vocals.
The lyrics often tackle themes of social and political unrest, delivered with a confrontational vocal style that rarely lets up throughout the record.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. 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

urgent bursts of raw energy
cathartic release through intensity
short tracks for quick engagement
socio-political themes and urgency
dynamic shifts in intensity

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer, immersive pieces
seek melodic, soothing sounds

Where this album fits

Career context: 'Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing' is Discharge's second studio album, released in 1982 following their influential debut 'Why.' At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their role as pioneers of the hardcore punk movement, with a sound that was becoming increasingly aggressive and politically charged.
Stylistic neighbors: Agnostic Front· GBH· Chaos UK