What makes Los Angeles Is Burning by Bad Religion notable?

This album is significant for its poignant commentary on urban decay and socio-political issues during a tumultuous time in American history. Songs like 'Los Angeles Is Burning' resonate with listeners, securing the band's position as thought leaders within the punk movement, while also receiving favorable reviews from major publications such as Alternative Press. By the release of 'Los Angeles Is Burning' in 2004, Bad Religion was already a staple in the punk rock scene, having released their influential album 'The Empire Strikes First' a year earlier. This album continued to showcase their commitment to addressing pressing social issues while maintaining their signature sound, marking a period of sustained relevance and creative output for the band.

How many songs are on Los Angeles Is Burning?

Los Angeles Is Burning has 3 tracks, running approximately 9 minutes.

Los Angeles Is Burning

Bad Religion · 2004

9 min · 3 tracks · punk rock

A sharp critique of societal decay wrapped in melodic punk energy and anthemic choruses.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Los Angeles Is Burning — The title track serves as a powerful indictment of political and environmental neglect, using vivid imagery to encapsulate the chaos of urban existence.
→
Let Them Eat War — This track’s aggressive instrumentation complements its scathing lyrics about war and inequality, embodying the band's punk ethos and social critique.
→
The Surface of Me — With its introspective lyrics and melodic hooks, this song highlights the personal struggles amid broader societal themes, showcasing Bad Religion's versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The single combines sharp social critique with melodic punk elements, showcasing strong writing and distinct sound.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving tempo and layered vocal harmonies that emphasize the urgency of its message.
The second track introduces a slower, more introspective melody, contrasting with the anthemic energy of the first.
The final track returns to a fast pace but incorporates complex guitar riffs that add depth to the arrangement.

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

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A notable single with strong themes, but not a primary album in their discography.
Themes: political neglect· war and inequality
Career context: By the release of 'Los Angeles Is Burning' in 2004, Bad Religion was already a staple in the punk rock scene, having released their influential album 'The Empire Strikes First' a year earlier. This album continued to showcase their commitment to addressing pressing social issues while maintaining their signature sound, marking a period of sustained relevance and creative output for the band.
Stylistic neighbors: Descendents· NOFX· Pennywise