What makes Hip Priest and Kamerads by The Fall notable?

Upon its release, 'Hip Priest and Kamerads' received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to punk rock, influencing numerous bands within the post-punk scene. It is often cited in discussions surrounding The Fall's best work and solidified their reputation as one of the most important groups in British alternative music of the era. By the time of its release in March 1985, The Fall had already established themselves with several albums, including the influential 'This Nation's Saving Grace' from 1985. 'Hip Priest and Kamerads' marked a continued evolution in their sound, characterized by Mark E. Smith's cryptic lyrics and experimental instrumentation. This album serves as a bridge between their earlier works and their later, more avant-garde explorations.

Who is Hip Priest and Kamerads for?

Hip Priest and Kamerads works well if you're into wave-like pacing with surprises, dynamic journey with absurd twists and extended finale for deep engagement.

How many songs are on Hip Priest and Kamerads?

Hip Priest and Kamerads has 14 tracks, running approximately 79 minutes.

Hip Priest and Kamerads

The Fall · 1985

79 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

A jarring blend of post-punk dissonance and sardonic wit, encapsulating the chaotic spirit of mid-80s British alternative music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hip Priest — This track exemplifies The Fall's signature style with its hypnotic repetition and surreal lyrics, creating an immersive atmosphere that captures the essence of the album.
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Who Makes the Nazis? — The song employs sharp social commentary laced with dark humor, showcasing Mark E. Smith's incisive lyricism while epitomizing the band's confrontational sound.
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Just Step Sideways — With its driving rhythm and sardonic delivery, this track encapsulates the album's chaotic energy and reflects the band's unique ability to blend punk sensibilities with literary depth.

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 jarring structures and sardonic lyrics reflect its post-punk roots while maintaining a distinct sound.

What we noticed

The album opens with a track that features a repetitive, driving bassline and dissonant guitar riffs, establishing an aggressive tone.
Several tracks incorporate abrupt tempo changes and unconventional song structures, often shifting dynamics within the same piece.
The lyrics are delivered in a spoken-word style, frequently overlapping with instrumental sections, creating a sense of chaos and urgency.

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 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing with surprises
dynamic journey with absurd twists
extended finale for deep engagement
sardonic humor throughout experience

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time of its release in March 1985, The Fall had already established themselves with several albums, including the influential 'This Nation's Saving Grace' from 1985. 'Hip Priest and Kamerads' marked a continued evolution in their sound, characterized by Mark E. Smith's cryptic lyrics and experimental instrumentation. This album serves as a bridge between their earlier works and their later, more avant-garde explorations.
Stylistic neighbors: Wire· Gang of Four· The Birthday Party