If Evolution Is Outlawed, Only Outlaws Will Evolve
Jello Biafra · 1998
196 min · 10 tracks · punk rock
Spoken word and punk collide in a fierce critique of politics and society, layered with raw urgency and sharp wit.
Top tracks — play these first
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Talk on the Death Penalty - When Psychopaths Guard the Henhouse — This track encapsulates Biafra's biting satire on systemic injustices while combining stark facts with impassioned prose, making it a centerpiece of the album's themes.
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The Murder of Mumia Abu-Jamal — Biafra addresses a high-profile case of injustice, using it as a lens to discuss broader issues of race and civil rights, showcasing his commitment to activism through narrative.
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Clinton Comes to Long Beach — In this track, Biafra critiques political figures with humor and gravity, capturing the disillusionment of many voters during the late '90s.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- cathartic release of pent-up frustration
- extended tracks for deep engagement
- urgent critiques of societal issues
- intense listening for political awareness
- gradual build to a powerful
Maybe skip if you
- prefer quick, digestible content
- seek light-hearted entertainment
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1998, If Evolution Is Outlawed, Only Outlaws Will Evolve marked Jello Biafra's continued evolution from frontman of Dead Kennedys into a provocative solo artist. This album followed his previous spoken word releases and highlights his commitment to political activism through music, establishing him as a leading voice in punk rock’s socio-political commentary.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dead Kennedys· Black Flag· Minor Threat
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Depends on the Drug 1:14
- 2 Talk on the Death Penalty - When Psychopaths Guard the Henhouse 3:24
- 3 The Murder of Mumia Abu-Jamal 6:50
- 4 Clinton Comes to Long Beach 2:52
- 5 The Hex-Files: Space Shuttle Sequel 9:16
- 6 Half-Time 4:18
- 7 The New Soviet Union 26:02
Disc 2
- 1 Talk on Censorship: It Takes a Pillage to Raze a Child / Talk on Censorship: The Contract on America 1:11:13
Disc 3
- 1 Talk on Censorship: Bridge to the New Dark Ages / Talk on Censorship: Which Way to the Zoo? 47:56
- 2 Wake Up and Smell the Noise 23:25
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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