That What Is Not cover

That What Is Not

Public Image Ltd. · 1992

49 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A swirling blend of post-punk textures and experimental rock, layered with introspective lyrics and a defiant edge.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Acid Drops Start here — This opening track establishes the album's experimental tone with its pulsating rhythms and lyrical themes of disillusionment, setting the stage for what follows.
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    Luck's Up — With its driving beat and biting lyrics, this track captures the essence of resilience in adversity, reflecting Lydon's sharp wit and lyrical prowess.
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    God — This track stands out for its haunting melody and provocative lyrics that challenge religious concepts, illustrating Lydon's ongoing critique of societal norms.
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    Cruel — The emotional depth of 'Cruel' showcases a more vulnerable side of Lydon, juxtaposing raw instrumentation with introspective lyrics about pain and betrayal.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo engagement
  • turbulent textures for exploration
  • reflective moments of unrest
  • in-order listening experience

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek upbeat party vibes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Explores new sonic territories, diverging from established sound.
Themes
post-punk disillusionment· societal critique
Career context
Released on February 1, 1992, That What Is Not was Public Image Ltd.'s seventh studio album and marked a significant point in their career following the band's turbulent years in the late 1980s. After a hiatus, this record represented an artistic re-emergence for frontman John Lydon, moving away from their earlier sound while retaining a confrontational spirit.
Stylistic neighbors
Wire· The Pop Group· Gang of Four
New to Public Image Ltd.? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Acid Drops Start here 6:35
  • 2 Luck's Up 4:07
  • 3 Cruel 5:18
  • 4 God 5:33
  • 5 Covered 4:40
  • 6 Love Hope 3:47
  • 7 Unfairground 5:16
  • 8 Think Tank 4:40
  • 9 Emperor 4:08
  • 10 Good Things 5:34

What to play next

This Is What You Want… This Is What You Get
Listen next

This Is What You Want… This Is What You Get

1984

Continues the experimental rock vibe with a more polished sound.
Happy?
Go back to

Happy?

1987

Sets up the thematic and sonic exploration leading into 'That What Is Not'.
Full Public Image Ltd. discography Where to start with Public Image Ltd. Artists like Public Image Ltd.
alternative rock post-punk

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Darklands

Darklands

The Jesus and Mary Chain

Shares a similar blend of introspective lyrics and swirling guitar textures with a post-punk edge.

Isn't Anything

Isn't Anything

My Bloody Valentine

Features experimental soundscapes and layered production, echoing the same sense of disillusionment.

Broken

Broken

Nine Inch Nails

Combines industrial rock with confrontational themes, resonating with the darker emotional undercurrents.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata