What makes Vengeance by New Model Army notable?

Vengeance reached number 33 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing the band's growing popularity. The album is notable for its politically infused themes, particularly the track 'Christian Militia,' which sparked controversy for its critique of political ideologies and war. Released in 1987, Vengeance marked New Model Army's third studio album, following the critically acclaimed No Rest for the Wicked. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying its reputation as a voice for social commentary through music, gaining traction in the UK alternative scene.

Who is Vengeance for?

Vengeance works well if you're into politically charged anthemic energy, wave-like pacing with peaks and raw urgency in every track.

How many songs are on Vengeance?

Vengeance has 18 tracks, running approximately 60 minutes.

Vengeance

New Model Army · 1987

60 min · 18 tracks · alternative rock

A raw blend of post-punk energy and politically charged lyrics encapsulates the spirit of late '80s alternative rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Christian Militia — This track stands out for its provocative lyrics that confront political violence and religious extremism, reflecting the band's commitment to social critique.
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Smalltown England — The song captures a sense of nostalgia and disillusionment with small-town life, resonating with listeners yearning for connection amidst societal change.
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Bittersweet — Opening the album with an energetic yet reflective tone, Bittersweet sets a compelling stage for the themes of longing and conflict explored throughout Vengeance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

Vengeance combines raw energy with politically charged themes, creating a distinctive sound for its era.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a high energy level with driving rhythms and aggressive guitar work, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a sense of urgency, particularly in 'Christian Militia' and 'Smalltown England.'
The album's lyrics are consistently politically charged, often addressing social issues directly, which is evident in tracks like 'A Liberal Education' and 'Spirit of the Falklands.'

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

politically charged anthemic energy
wave-like pacing with peaks
raw urgency in every track
morning commute with intensity

Maybe skip if you

seeking mellow background sounds
prefer standalone, radio-friendly singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified their reputation and showcased growing popularity.
Career context: Released in 1987, Vengeance marked New Model Army's third studio album, following the critically acclaimed No Rest for the Wicked. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying its reputation as a voice for social commentary through music, gaining traction in the UK alternative scene.
Stylistic neighbors: The Cult· Killing Joke· The Sisters of Mercy