What makes Is This Real? by Wipers notable?

Is This Real? is significant for its role in shaping the Pacific Northwest punk scene and influencing countless bands that followed. The album received critical acclaim, with notable publications recognizing its raw sound and lyrical depth, making it a touchstone for both punk enthusiasts and emerging alternative rock artists. Released in 1980, Is This Real? marks the Wipers' debut album, introducing their influential sound amidst the burgeoning punk scene. At this time, the band was establishing its identity within a genre dominated by more mainstream acts, setting the stage for their subsequent releases.

How many songs are on Is This Real??

Is This Real? has 15 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Is This Real?

Wipers · 1980

40 min · 15 tracks · punk rock

Raw, driving punk energy meets introspective lyrics, creating a uniquely dissonant yet melodic sonic landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Return of the Rat — This track captures the essence of the album with its frenetic energy and biting lyrics that reflect themes of alienation and disillusionment.
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D-7 — As one of the standout tracks, D-7 features an infectious riff and poignant lyrics that explore feelings of despair, resonating deeply with listeners.
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Alien Boy — This song exemplifies the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with darker themes, showcasing their unique approach to punk rock.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album combines raw punk energy with introspective lyrics, making it distinct within its genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track, immediately establishing a raw energy that persists through the first half.
Several tracks feature abrupt tempo shifts, such as 'D-7', which slows down significantly before picking back up.
The lyrical content often contrasts with the driving instrumentals, creating a dissonance that invites deeper listening.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
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.

Tracklist

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

1 Return of the Rat 2:45
2 Mystery 1:52
3 Up Front 3:09
4 Let's Go Let's Go Away 1:53
5 Is This Real? 2:41
6 Tragedy 2:05
7 Alien Boy 3:28
8 D-7 4:09
9 Potential Suicide 3:38
10 Don't Know What I Am 3:00
11 Window Shop for Love 3:03
12 Wait a Minute 3:06
13 Image of Man 2:32
14 Telepathic Love 1:32
15 Voices in the Rain 1:24

What to play next

Listen next

Youth of America

1981

Go back to

Wipers Live

Full Wipers discography Artists like Wipers

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata