In the world of punk rock history, there are albums that merely exist, and then there are albums that explode like a Molotov cocktail into the collective consciousness, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape. NOMEANSNO's "Sex Mad" is undeniably the latter.
The year was 1986. Ronald Reagan was in the White House, the Cold War was still raging, and the punk scene was undergoing a seismic shift. The raw, unadulterated fury of the early punk movement had given way to a more experimental and diverse sound, with bands like the Minutemen, Hüsker Dü, and Black Flag pushing the boundaries of the genre. It was into this fertile ground that NOMEANSNO, a Canadian trio hailing from Victoria, British Columbia, dropped their second full-length album, "Sex Mad."
From the opening salvo of "Dad," it was clear that NOMEANSNO was not interested in playing by anyone's rules. The band's sound was a ferocious blend of punk, hardcore, funk, and even jazz, held together by the Wright brothers' intricate musicianship and Rob Wright's distinctive, snarling vocals. The album's title track, "Sex Mad," was a relentless assault on the senses, driven by a pummeling rhythm section and a chorus that was both catchy and unsettling. It quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of their live shows. Other standout tracks like "The Tower" and "Brother Rat" showcased the band's ability to seamlessly shift between breakneck tempos and more introspective moments, all while maintaining a sense of controlled chaos. The instrumental track "Lost" demonstrated their musical prowess, while "No Place Like Home" offered a glimpse into their sardonic humor.
Lyrically, "Sex Mad" was a raw and unflinching exploration of the darker side of human nature, tackling themes of alienation, addiction, and societal decay with a brutal honesty that was both shocking and cathartic. *Songs like "Dad" and "One in a Million" delved into personal struggles and social commentary, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.* The album's controversial cover art, featuring a close-up of a woman's genitalia, only added to the sense of unease and transgression that permeated the music. This bold choice sparked debate and censorship, further fueling the album's notoriety.
"Sex Mad" was recorded at Profile Studios in Vancouver, British Columbia, with producer Cecil English, who had previously worked with the band on their debut album, "Mama." English's production captured the raw energy of NOMEANSNO's live performances, while also allowing the intricacies of their musicianship to shine through.
Upon its release, "Sex Mad" was met with a mix of critical acclaim and bewilderment. Some critics hailed it as a masterpiece of punk rock innovation, while others were put off by its abrasive sound and confrontational lyrics. The album's controversial cover art also drew its fair share of criticism, with some retailers refusing to stock it.
Despite the mixed reception, "Sex Mad" went on to become a cult classic, influencing countless bands in the years that followed. Its impact can be heard in the music of everyone from the Melvins and Primus to Faith No More and System of a Down. NOMEANSNO themselves would go on to release a string of critically acclaimed albums, cementing their status as one of the most important and influential bands in the history of punk rock.
"Sex Mad" remains a testament to the power of music to challenge, provoke, and inspire. It is an album that refuses to be ignored, a sonic maelstrom that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its initial release.
