Reactionary cover

Reactionary

Face to Face · 2000

37 min · 12 tracks · punk rock

Punk rock energy collides with introspective lyrics, creating a sound that is both raw and reflective.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Disappointed — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its urgent instrumentation and a fierce critique of disillusionment, embodying the band's signature style.
  • →
    Think for Yourself — This track encapsulates the album's theme of self-reflection and independence, combining catchy hooks with incisive lyrics that challenge societal norms.
  • →
    Hollow — Hollow stands out for its introspective lyrics that delve into feelings of emptiness and longing, resonating deeply with listeners seeking authenticity.

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 combines punk energy with introspective lyrics, showcasing solid songwriting but lacking some cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
  • Several tracks feature layered guitar harmonies that create a fuller sound, particularly in the choruses.
  • Lyrically, the album explores themes of disillusionment and self-reflection, with verses often contrasting with more anthemic choruses.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • brisk pacing for quick listens
  • introspective lyrics for reflection
  • catchy melodies for sing-alongs
  • short tracks for instant gratification
  • energetic vibe for active moments

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking long, immersive experiences
  • prefer slow, patient builds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2000, Reactionary marked Face to Face's fifth studio album and their first after departing from their long-time label, Victim Records. At this point, they were navigating a transitional phase as they sought to refine their sound while maintaining their punk roots, following the commercial success of their previous album, Ignorance Is Bliss.
Stylistic neighbors
Pennywise· NOFX· Bad Religion

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Disappointed 2:48
  • 2 Out of Focus 3:32
  • 3 What’s in a Name? 3:05
  • 4 You Could’ve Had Everything 2:15
  • 5 Hollow 3:23
  • 6 Think for Yourself 2:43
  • 7 Just Like You Said 3:06
  • 8 Solitaire 3:05
  • 9 Best Defense 3:47
  • 10 Icons 3:18
  • 11 Shame on Me 3:13
  • 12 Estranged 2:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata