Outside Society cover

Outside Society

Patti Smith · 2011

79 min · 18 tracks · post-punk · art rock · proto-punk

A potent blend of rock anthems and poetic introspection that encapsulates Patti Smith's enduring spirit.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic ebb and flow experience
  • poetic introspection with energy
  • anthemic choruses for sing-alongs
  • reflective moments amid urgency

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek consistent pacing throughout

Where this album fits

Themes
poetic rebellion· New York punk scene
Career context
Released in 2011, 'Outside Society' is a compilation album marking Patti Smith's resurgence following her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2007. This collection showcases her influential tracks spanning from the 1970s to the early 2000s, presenting a retrospective glimpse into her evolution as an artist during a period of renewed interest in her work.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Juju by Siouxsie and the Banshees — Combines art rock with post-punk intensity, echoing themes of defiance and introspection.
Hunky Dory by David Bowie — Features a blend of rock anthems and lyrical depth, reflecting a similar artistic spirit.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Gloria 5:52
  • 2 Free Money 3:50
  • 3 Ain’t It Strange 6:35
  • 4 Pissing in a River 4:50
  • 5 Because the Night 3:22
  • 6 Rock ’n’ Roll Nigger 4:52
  • 7 Dancing Barefoot 4:16
  • 8 Frederick 3:02
  • 9 So You Want to Be a Rock ’n’ Roll Star 4:18
  • 10 People Have the Power 5:06
  • 11 Up There Down There 4:48
  • 12 Beneath the Southern Cross 4:34
  • 13 Summer Cannibals 4:09
  • 14 1959 3:58
  • 15 Glitter in Their Eyes 3:03
  • 16 Lo and Beholden (radio edit) 4:19
  • 17 Smells Like Teen Spirit (radio edit) 5:49
  • 18 Trampin’ (album version) 2:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata