The First Four Years cover

The First Four Years

Black Flag · 1983

24 min · 16 tracks · hardcore punk · post-hardcore

A raw and frenetic explosion of energy capturing the essence of early American hardcore punk.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short, intense listening bursts
  • immediate energy and urgency
  • raw emotional expression
  • fast-paced, adrenaline-driven moments

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1983, 'The First Four Years' is a compilation that chronicles Black Flag's formative years, featuring tracks from their early EPs and singles. This album came after their influential debut 'Damaged' and reflects the band's transition from local LA punk legends to national icons. At this point, Black Flag had solidified their reputation for relentless touring and confrontational music.
Stylistic neighbors
Minor Threat· Dead Kennedys· Circle Jerks

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Nervous Breakdown 2:07
  • 2 Fix Me 0:55
  • 3 I’ve Had It 1:20
  • 4 Wasted 0:51
  • 5 Jealous Again 1:47
  • 6 Revenge 0:58
  • 7 White Minority 1:04
  • 8 No Values 1:04
  • 9 You Bet We’ve Got Something Personal Against You! 0:51
  • 10 Clocked In 1:30
  • 11 Six Pack 2:18
  • 12 I’ve Heard It Before 1:38
  • 13 American Waste 1:30
  • 14 Machine 1:25
  • 15 Louie Louie 1:17
  • 16 Damaged I 4:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata