What makes Reasons for Existence by Subhumans notable?

The album is notable for its unfiltered critique of urban life and societal decay, which resonated strongly with the punk community. It gained significant attention, contributing to the visibility of anarcho-punk and inspiring subsequent bands within the genre. Released in 1982, 'Reasons for Existence' was Subhumans' debut album, following their formation in 1980. At this point, they were establishing themselves within the UK punk scene, aligning with the anarcho-punk movement that emphasized political activism and social critique.

How many songs are on Reasons for Existence?

Reasons for Existence has 4 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Reasons for Existence

Subhumans · 1982

8 min · 4 tracks · anarcho-punk

Frantic, raw energy collides with sharp political commentary in a quintessential anarcho-punk explosion.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Reason for Existence — This title track encapsulates the band's ethos, blending a relentless rhythm with lyrics that challenge societal norms and provoke thought about existence itself.
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Cancer — With its urgent tempo and stark imagery, this track serves as a metaphor for societal ailments, effectively showcasing the band’s ability to fuse personal and political themes.
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Peroxide — This song's frenetic pace and biting lyrics reflect the chaotic spirit of youth rebellion, making it a standout representation of the band's energetic style.

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

The EP's raw energy and political themes align well with its genre, making it a notable entry in anarcho-punk.

What we noticed

The EP opens with a fast-paced track that features aggressive guitar riffs and urgent vocals, setting a frantic tone.
Each song maintains a raw production quality, with minimal studio polish, emphasizing the band's punk ethos.
Lyrically, the tracks deliver pointed critiques of societal issues, often using direct and confrontational language.

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: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 Big City 1:48
2 Peroxide 1:50
3 Reason for Existence 2:30
4 Cancer 2:16

What to play next

Listen next

From the Cradle to the Grave

1983

Go back to

Demolition War, Part I-III

1981

Full Subhumans discography Artists like Subhumans

anarcho-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata