What makes Negative Trend by Negative Trend notable?

The EP is notable for its critical reception within the underground scene, influencing later punk bands and contributing to the broader narrative of American punk rock. It has been recognized for its gritty sound and lyrical intensity, setting a precedent for bands that followed in both style and thematic content. Negative Trend's self-titled EP marked their debut release in 1978, positioning the band amidst the burgeoning punk scene in San Francisco. This EP was significant in establishing their presence as a raw, forward-thinking act at a time when punk was beginning to gain mainstream traction.

How many songs are on Negative Trend?

Negative Trend has 4 tracks, running approximately 11 minutes.

Negative Trend

Negative Trend · 1978

11 min · 4 tracks · punk rock

Raw, aggressive punk rock energy collides with sharp social commentary and an unrelenting DIY ethos.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Mercenaries — Opening with a relentless tempo, this track encapsulates the band's critique of societal violence and political corruption, establishing their thematic focus.
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Meathouse — This song's frenetic energy and dark imagery exemplify Negative Trend's ability to blend aggression with poignant commentary on human nature.
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Black and Red — With its catchy yet confrontational chorus, this track serves as a standout representation of the band's sound and lyrical preoccupations, addressing themes of identity and conflict.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100

Foothills

Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

This EP captures the raw energy of early punk while showcasing distinct lyrical themes and aggressive instrumentation.

What we noticed

The EP features four tracks, each under three minutes, maintaining a relentless pace throughout.
Vocals are delivered in a shouted style, often overlapping with the instrumentation, creating a chaotic sound.
The guitar riffs are raw and distorted, with minimal production effects, emphasizing a DIY aesthetic.

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: 8/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Mercenaries 2:51
2 Meathouse 3:05
3 Black and Red 3:38
4 How Ya Feelin' 1:52

What to play next

Listen next

We Don't Play We Riot

1978

Full Negative Trend discography Artists like Negative Trend

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata