What makes Wildcard by Pennywise notable?

Wildcard contributed significantly to the rise of melodic hardcore in the late '80s, influencing a wave of punk bands that followed. The EP was well-received in underground circles and helped establish Pennywise as a formidable force within the genre, leading to greater visibility and subsequent releases. Released in January 1989, Wildcard marked Pennywise's debut EP, setting the stage for their influential sound in the melodic hardcore scene. At this point, the band was still establishing their identity, following initial formation in 1988 but before their breakthrough full-length album, which would solidify their presence in the punk community.

How many songs are on Wildcard?

Wildcard has 3 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Wildcard

Pennywise · 1989

7 min · 3 tracks · melodic hardcore

A burst of high-energy melodic hardcore with anthemic choruses and urgent guitar riffs that captures the spirit of late '80s punk.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wildcard — The title track encapsulates the EP's raw energy and urgency, with driving rhythms and a catchy chorus that would become hallmarks of Pennywise's style.
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Maybes — This track showcases lyrical introspection paired with intense instrumentation, reflecting the band's ability to blend personal themes with their energetic sound.
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Stand by Me — A powerful anthem that combines camaraderie and resilience, this song highlights Pennywise's knack for creating compelling sing-alongs within their hardcore framework.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

This EP captures the essence of late '80s melodic hardcore with energetic riffs and strong choruses.

What we noticed

The EP features three tracks, all under three minutes, maintaining a fast tempo throughout.
Each song employs a call-and-response vocal style, enhancing the anthemic quality of the choruses.
Guitar riffs are consistently urgent and melodic, driving the energy of each track.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Wildcard 2:20
2 Maybes 1:57
3 Stand by Me 3:07

What to play next

Listen next

Pennywise

1991

Go back to

Rare & Unreleased

Full Pennywise discography Artists like Pennywise

melodic hardcore

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata