What makes Let's Start a War by The Exploited notable?

This album is significant for its outspoken critique of war and authority, reflecting the socio-political climate of early 1980s Britain. It gained notable attention for its controversial themes and became an influential work within the UK punk movement, cementing The Exploited's position as key players in the genre. Released in January 1983, Let's Start a War came just after The Exploited's breakthrough album, Punks Not Dead. By this time, the band had solidified their reputation within the hardcore punk scene, showcasing their politically charged lyrics and intense sound amidst a rapidly growing genre.

Who is Let's Start a War for?

Let's Start a War works well if you're into aggressive energy for protests, short bursts of intensity and cathartic release of frustration.

How many songs are on Let's Start a War?

Let's Start a War has 15 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Let's Start a War

The Exploited · 1983

41 min · 15 tracks · hardcore punk

A relentless barrage of raw power chords and aggressive vocals fuels this chaotic declaration against societal norms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Let’s Start a War (Said Maggie One Day) — The title track sets the tone with its fiery energy and confrontational lyrics, encapsulating the album's anti-war sentiment that resonates throughout.
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God Saved the Queen — This track serves as a powerful anthem, reinterpreting the band's earlier work while amplifying their disdain for monarchy and government oppression.
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Wankers — In under three minutes, this song showcases sharp political commentary and biting humor, reflecting the discontent that defined the punk ethos of the era.
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Insanity — With its frenetic pace and urgent lyrics, this track captures a sense of impending chaos, embodying the fears and frustrations of youth during turbulent times.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album's raw energy and political themes resonate within the hardcore punk genre, making it a notable work of its time.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a relentless tempo, with aggressive guitar riffs and shouted vocals that create a sense of urgency.
Several tracks feature abrupt transitions between sections, contributing to the chaotic feel of the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

aggressive energy for protests
short bursts of intensity
cathartic release of frustration
sing-along moments with friends
dynamic shifts in pacing

Maybe skip if you

prefer slower, melodic sounds
seek lengthy immersive tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1983, Let's Start a War came just after The Exploited's breakthrough album, Punks Not Dead. By this time, the band had solidified their reputation within the hardcore punk scene, showcasing their politically charged lyrics and intense sound amidst a rapidly growing genre.
Stylistic neighbors: GBH· Discharge· Dead Kennedys