What makes What Good Is Grief to a God? by D.I. notable?

The album is notable for its critical reception within the punk community, showcasing D.I.'s refusal to conform to mainstream expectations. It has influenced numerous bands within the hardcore punk genre, particularly for its unapologetic approach to themes of despair and disillusionment during a pivotal time in American music. Released in 1988, What Good Is Grief to a God? was D.I.'s second studio album, following their debut, Team Goon, from 1987. This album solidified their presence in the hardcore punk scene as they transitioned from a more experimental sound to a sharper, more aggressive edge while maintaining their signature humor and social commentary.

How many songs are on What Good Is Grief to a God??

What Good Is Grief to a God? has 13 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

What Good Is Grief to a God?

D.I. · 1988

38 min · 13 tracks · hardcore punk

A relentless barrage of aggressive riffs and raw vocals, embodying the chaotic spirit of late '80s hardcore punk.

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Top tracks — play these first

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They Lie, You Die / Fatso Nero — Opening with an explosive energy, this track sets the tone for the album's raw intensity and critiques societal deception.
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Terrorist's Life — This track captures D.I.'s biting social commentary through fast-paced rhythms and sharp lyrics about paranoia and societal chaos.
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Johnny's Got a Problem — A standout track that combines catchy hooks with pointed criticism of addiction and personal struggles within a punk framework.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Wanderings of a Giant

The verse shifts abruptly into an introspective monologue that questions existence and purpose amidst chaos.

This structural choice provides a stark contrast to the album’s overall aggression, revealing depth in vulnerability rarely seen in hardcore punk.

Tracklist

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

1 They Lie, You Die / Fatso Nero 3:24
2 Terrorist's Life 3:22
3 Sinning Artist Max 2:49
4 They Must Want to Die 2:30
5 Girl Scout Camp 1:33
6 No Mistakes 3:35
7 Shadow of a Fool 3:54
8 The Puppet 2:42
9 Don't Do It 3:14
10 Witch in the Canyon 2:27
11 Wanderings of a Giant 4:07
12 Johnny's Got a Problem 2:26
13 She's Obscene 2:24

What to play next

Listen next

Tragedy Again

1989

Go back to

Horse Bites Dog Cries

1986

Full D.I. discography Artists like D.I.

hardcore punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata