What makes Smash It Up by The Damned notable?

'Smash It Up' became one of The Damned's signature songs, reaching No. 36 on the UK Singles Chart and solidifying their status in the punk genre. The track's irreverent lyrics and catchy melody influenced a generation of punk and post-punk artists, contributing to the broader cultural landscape of British music during this era. By the time 'Smash It Up' was released in October 1979, The Damned had already established themselves as pioneers of the punk scene with their debut album 'Damned Damned Damned' in 1977. This single marked a turning point for the band, showcasing their evolution into more experimental territory while maintaining their punk roots, leading up to their subsequent work in gothic rock and new wave.

How many songs are on Smash It Up?

Smash It Up has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Released 47 years ago this October

Smash It Up

The Damned · 1979

6 min · 2 tracks · new wave

A raucous blend of punk energy and playful sarcasm that captures the chaotic spirit of late '70s Britain.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Smash It Up — This track epitomizes The Damned's punk ethos with its rebellious spirit and infectious chorus, making it an anthem for disaffected youth.
→
Burglar — With its sharp wit and driving rhythm, this song showcases the band's ability to blend humor with social commentary, highlighting their creative range.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The single combines catchy melodies with punk energy, making it both engaging and influential in its genre.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving beat with prominent guitar riffs and a call-and-response vocal style that emphasizes its anthemic quality.
Both tracks are under three minutes long, contributing to a brisk pacing that keeps the listener engaged throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified The Damned's status in the punk genre with wider recognition.
Themes: British punk rebellion· late '70s chaos· suburban discontent
Career context: By the time 'Smash It Up' was released in October 1979, The Damned had already established themselves as pioneers of the punk scene with their debut album 'Damned Damned Damned' in 1977. This single marked a turning point for the band, showcasing their evolution into more experimental territory while maintaining their punk roots, leading up to their subsequent work in gothic rock and new wave.
Stylistic neighbors: Siouxsie and the Banshees· The Cure· Bauhaus