What makes Right to Kill by Whitehouse notable?

Right to Kill is significant for its unapologetic examination of violence and sexuality, which led to widespread controversy and discussions about censorship in music. It has influenced numerous artists within the industrial and noise music scenes, while also contributing to critical discourse on the boundaries of artistic expression. Released in 1983, Right to Kill marked Whitehouse's third studio album, solidifying their position within the power electronics genre after the controversial success of their previous work, Erector. The album exemplifies their exploration of extreme themes and sonic experimentation during a period when the band was gaining notoriety for their confrontational style and provocative subject matter.

Who is Right to Kill for?

Right to Kill works well if you're into short bursts of confrontational energy, unsettling soundscapes that provoke thought and intense, visceral listening experiences.

How many songs are on Right to Kill?

Right to Kill has 11 tracks, running approximately 28 minutes.

Right to Kill

Whitehouse · 1983

28 min · 11 tracks · noise music

A visceral barrage of harsh noise and provocative themes that challenge societal norms through unsettling audio landscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Dedicated to Denis Nilsen — This opening track sets an unsettling tone by referencing the infamous serial killer, establishing the album's theme of confronting dark realities head-on.
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Pro-Rapist — The title alone sparks intense dialogue around misogyny and consent, showcasing Whitehouse's willingness to provoke thought through controversial statements.
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Right to Kill — The title track serves as a culmination of the album’s themes, presenting a lengthy exploration of moral ambiguity through a dense soundscape that challenges listeners.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short bursts of confrontational energy
unsettling soundscapes that provoke thought
intense, visceral listening experiences
dark themes with aggressive tones

Maybe skip if you

prefer melodic and soothing sounds
seek light-hearted, upbeat content

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1983, Right to Kill marked Whitehouse's third studio album, solidifying their position within the power electronics genre after the controversial success of their previous work, Erector. The album exemplifies their exploration of extreme themes and sonic experimentation during a period when the band was gaining notoriety for their confrontational style and provocative subject matter.
Stylistic neighbors: Merzbow· Nurse With Wound· Wolf Eyes

Tracklist

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

1 Dedicated to Denis Nilsen 1:15
2 Cock Dominant 1:58
3 Tit Pulp 1:57
4 Gilles de Rais 2:13
5 Pro-Rapist 2:13
6 Death Penalty 1:34
7 The Streetcleaner 1:33
8 Bloodfucking 2:40
9 Queen Myra 2:19
10 New Sadist 3:38
11 Right to Kill 7:30

What to play next

Listen next

Great White Death

1985

Go back to

New Britain

1982

Full Whitehouse discography Artists like Whitehouse

noise music power electronics

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata