REFUSED - The Shape Of Punk To Come - Deluxe CDx2+DVD
Arguably the most influential hardcore album of all time, The Shape of Punk to Come was Refused's masterpiece, their last recording, and the record that launched a new generation of hardcore bands. Now fans can explore the album in a new light with an added CD of the long-rumored about, unreleased, incendiary (fifty minute plus) live album that was recorded at the Umeå Open festival in their hometown Umeå, Sweden on April 3, 1998; PLUS a DVD documentary (Refused Are Fucking Dead) about their first US tour and ensuing demise.
Many who listen to this album will say Hey, this isn't punk after not finding the power chords and I-IV-V structures that they associate with poppy skatepunk bands like NOFX and Lagwagon, but this is what revolution is all about -- taking an industry of specifications and expectations and turning it fully on its head, yet holding on to some semblance of what once was. Refused are pure innovation and passion spouting Nation of Ulysses-esque doctrine while fusing together the bite and flavor of fist-raised, Dillinger Escape Plan-style hardcore with ambient textures, jazz breakdowns, and other such deviations. Choppy, beautiful movements, choked thoughts, and feelings of elevation -- this is what punk is all about, although to the common ear it may not sound like it, and that is precisely one of the reasons why it is so potent. ~ Blake Butler, All Music Guide
