Released 51 years ago this October
Malpractice
Dr. Feelgood · 1975
37 min · 11 tracks · new wave
Raw energy and gritty storytelling collide in a spirited blend of pub rock and rhythm and blues.
Top tracks — play these first
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Going Back Home — This track captures the band's signature boogie-woogie style while showcasing Wilko Johnson's distinctive guitar work, setting a high-energy tone for the album.
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Back in the Night — The driving rhythm and catchy chorus make this song a standout, reflecting the band's knack for blending lyrical storytelling with infectious melodies.
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Riot in Cell Block No. 9 — A cover that exemplifies the band’s ability to reinterpret classic blues with their own aggressive edge, it highlights the raw vocal power of Lee Brilleaux.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album delivers energetic performances with solid songwriting but lacks some cohesion in its flow.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a driving rhythm and maintains a consistent tempo across the first five tracks, creating an energetic atmosphere.
- Several tracks feature call-and-response vocals, enhancing the raw, live feel of the performance.
- The last three tracks slow down slightly in tempo, providing a contrast to the earlier intensity and allowing for a moment of reflection.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo pub energy
- raw energy for social settings
- sing-along anthems with friends
- short bursts of gritty fun
Maybe skip if you
- prefer slower, reflective music
- dislike energetic group settings
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — 'Malpractice' solidified Dr. Feelgood's presence after their debut, enhancing their recognition.
- Career context
- Released on October 1, 1975, 'Malpractice' was Dr. Feelgood's second studio album, following their breakthrough debut 'Down by the Jetty'. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their reputation as one of the leading bands in the pub rock scene, known for their dynamic live performances and unpolished sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Stranglers· Wilko Johnson· Eddie and the Hot Rods
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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You Shouldn’t Call the Doctor (If You Can’t Afford the Bills)
The narrative shifts from a personal dilemma to a broader commentary on societal issues surrounding healthcare and financial struggles.
This shift not only deepens the song's meaning but also showcases Dr. Feelgood's willingness to tackle issues beyond personal relationships.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 I Can Tell 2:46
- 2 Going Back Home 4:00
- 3 Back in the Night 3:18
- 4 Another Man 2:55
- 5 Rolling and Tumbling 3:12
- 6 Don’t Let Your Daddy Know 2:57
- 7 Watch Your Step 3:23
- 8 Don’t You Just Know It 3:49
- 9 Riot in Cell Block No. 9 3:40
- 10 Because You’re Mine 4:54
- 11 You Shouldn’t Call the Doctor (If You Can’t Afford the Bills) 2:33
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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