Reviews (page 10 of 14)
Punchy punk album, good for running and other active stuff. Not usually my pick, but a classic. 5/10.
Slutten av Problems var forferdelig. Ellers kul britisk garasjerock.
I enjoy a bit of punk, though I hadn't listened through a full Sex Pistols album before. It had great energy! I'm a bit hit and miss with punk, so while this was fun for a bit, it was also pretty repetitive! It put me in the mood for some Amyl and the Sniffers - an Aussie band I'd highly reccomend to anyone who loves energetic punk rock with loads of swearing - I listened to them on repeat for the rest of the day!
Classic - but not really for me.
I liked this album. I had never listened to it all the way through. I really liked that song “Submission.” In the past, I’ve found the Sex Pistols hard to listen to because the sound is harsh. Makes you want to break everything.
Punk rock What else is there to say?
You can definitely hear how it helped shape the future sound of punk. The music itself is nothing special but the songs are good solid punk tunes. Nothing especially stood out to me but it was still a decent listen.
6/10
Simon Ferocious
Much better than I remember it, interesting to listen to and think of the times
Meh
Sex Pistols always reminds me of a friend of mine, so it's always good. Except overall it's actually just okay.
For a bunch of reasons a must hear before you die..
After hearing so many punk albums in this list, Sex Pistols feels so... Meh.
Noise but fun noise
The Problem with coming late to something influential is it loses what made it so important, so honestly I didn’t really get much from this album :/ but it certainly deserves to be on thelist
Very loud, very punk. I don’t know too much else to say, but it was okay.
Ymhh...
Kind of all the same thing it was a British guy yelling and it was a bit monotonous but I like it because I was raised on this music. Again I’m biased
As a young fella, I always thought this was the “first punk album.” That’s insane. Literally the dumbest thing I’ve ever thought. And you’ve seen my thoughts here. Haven’t you? Oh please somebody be reading this. Actually? Maybe that wouldn’t be for the best. Ugh. Let’s get another one of these going. Good riff, kind of less energy than I had hoped, but a fairly raw edge which I love. YES. This rules. I love this song. Always have. I’ve always taken it as pro-abortion, but if it’s not, fuck this band. As many abortions as we can handle buddy. Available for all. Anyway. The song goes hard as a pro-abortion anthem. No feelings eh? It’s kind of like that. Producing a small amount of numbness. I’m kind of feeling whatever about this. Liar is mid. I found myself wanting it to be over. Problem here is this song is like the other songs. The exact same. I don’t hate that formula, it can work, but this takes some of the song ideas, rather than the energy. Always love a good shot at the Queen. As a man with Scottish roots and a healthy distaste for the actions of most leaders in all societies/communities, it’s fun to hear any jab at her and her supporters. I’m also a lazy sod and not 17, so this song only half speaks to me. Nah it’s fine. Guitar Hero time pal. Decent song. Hard to look past the overplayed I love the slow, creeping riff here. The tone is great, the song sounds a little different. Almost the B-52s but with a harder punk edge. An actual discovery. Pretty Vacant is dragging on me for some reason. Might be too much music for the day but either way, I’m feeling fairly empty myself. I think songs that are just about New York are so funny. It’s so overdone now, but back then, it was finished off by F.E.A.R’s “New York is Alright if You Like Saxophones,” which is a better sentence than I’ve ever written in my entire life. This song was alright. A lame end. I can’t sigh in a text box, but rest assured I’m sighing. I want to love this, but it’s so popular, it’s almost lost any pink credit it once had. That’s the difficulty of listening to old music with current knowledge. As a boy in 1977, this probably would’ve scared me half to death and excited me, but then again, I’d have heard Black Sabbath and all the oddities of the 60’s and 70’s. We weren’t even that far from Thrash at this point. This album is fun, has some cool moments but will ultimately leave my brain almost immediately. I say this is fine. Johnny Rotten says BODDDDDIES, and I say, “this was pretty good.” Even if the name of the band has a dirty word in it. 3 HIGHLIGHTS: Bodies, God Save the Queen, Sub-Mission
Trailblazers etc. but boring prefer clash dated - none of my notes saved otherwise would be more detailed Again understand its historical but not enjoyable to listen to vocals ruin it
Yeah the message made in this very form and shape is clear and strong and I understand this album's significance and impact. Nevertheless all songs sound almost the same - it's just shouting and torturing the instruments. Also shouting not more than 10 words per song.
3.5
Great album but I Think too long
Obviously a classic, although it’s not something l’d listen to on my own.
I didn't super love it. The guitars were great but the punk sound is too dirty for me.
Not really a Sex Pistols fan
3/5
Classic punk or angry misogyny?
Like them better than I thought I would.
Good! The highs were definitely high :)
Yeah there's a reason this album is often in the top 100 albums list though, and it's mainly cause there was nothing quite like it before, and nothing really like it afterwards. Huge influence on music after 1977. There were 40 people saw the Sex Pistols at the Lesser Free Trade Hall in Manchester on 4 June 1976, they came away inspired. But they were inspired in a very Mancunian kind of way. Many people in the audience that night didn’t look at the Pistols and so much think: "I want to do that..." but instead, they looked at the young Londoners and thought "I could do way better than that!" there would be no Buzzcocks, Magazine, Joy Division, New Order, Factory Records no Happy mondays, no oasis... and that's just the manchester bands... Without the ones that got up and did something with this 'new music' there would be no Nirvana or Green Day, no Suede, no Killers, no Arctic Monkeys, no Interpol or Savages, no Blur, no Pavement, no Radiohead, Prodigy, no Arcade Fire. Having said all that the album sucks musically 3/5
I've never really cared much for the Sex Pistols but I can at least appreciate how influential this album is. It has a few highlights but it can also be very annoying at some points. Overall its just kind of average in my opinion. I think its valid to hate or love this album. What isn't valid is calling this the greatest, or even one of the greatest, punk albums of all time. There are so many better punk albums from this era, I'm so sick of seeing this mediocre album top so many lists. Just because something is influential doesn't necessarily mean it is good.. Favorite track: Anarchy in the U.K.
Je reconnais l’importance de cet album, pour le contexte historique, pour l’influence qu’il a eu pour la suite, etc. Je ne peux donc pas donner en bas de 3. Par contre, je n’ai pas eu de plaisir à l’écouter - ça à même été un peu souffrant à terminer - mis à part la dernière chanson « EMI », que j’ai vrai aimée.
All albums will be 1, 3 or 5 stars, with no further commentary or explanation given. Played via Spotify, re-listen.
Better than I remember, but I feel the lyrics are just a long line of immature statements about the UK's scared cows, I never thought there was ever much thought behind it, just trying to be provocative . 3.5*
All tha songs kinda sounded the same.
I looked up their story and it's super fascinating how the youth of England were like this. In it's context it's beautiful but as an everyday listener? I'm good. Maybe would come back to this once a year or so to remember the story
Meh overrated
Meh
This wasn't bad at all but I'm not sure I'd catch myself ever listening to it again.
Prefer Spunk to these recordings
3.5 on songs. 5 on import and impact.
Ehhh not usually my scene but I can appreciate it. Less cymbals than I expected which is good. Feels like the part in a movie where they’re in the UK and walk into a rough crowd club or a montage with Rodrick Heffley idk. I think I had to listen to some of this for my history of rock and roll class in college. 2.5 / 5 so I’m giving it a 3. I won’t take points off for this but this all sounds kinda like it could be the same song and now I’ve had enough Sex Pistols for the rest of my life. BUT I would listen again as background music.
surprisingly normal sounding
historic and influential, just not for me
Better than I was expecting but still quite crap, if very iconic. Bonus points for inspiring some bands with actual talent
That’s so punk rock
6/10 Album koji sam dosta puta cuo kao tinejdžer. Sta reci, jedan od najkultnijih punk albuma ikad, definirao je zanr i bivao zabranjen u mnogim ducanima i radijima diljem UK-a ali opet je nekako zavrsio na prvom mjestu album charta kod sebe doma. Problems i Anarchy In The UK su me vratile 20 godina unazad jer sam ih bas volio tad, iako se nisam smatrao pankerom u to vrijeme, a jos manje kasnije. EMI je isto bas oke buntovnicko pljuvanje po bivsem labelu. Danas mi nije žanr skroz po izboru ali nemam nikakvih problema s ovakvim albumima. Samo nemoj da predugo traje, a ne bude sigurno posto je punk u pitanju tako da smo okej. Opet, cak i uz dozu nostalgije nemrem ovom albumu dati vise od šestice jer, ono, postoji puno zanimljivije muzike od ovoga.
Lyrics: 2/5 Music: 3/5 Production: 3/5 Cohesiveness: 3/5 Overall: 3/5 Stand out songs: No feelings God save the queen Really well mixed with each instrument not getting in the way. Great drums with driving bass lines. Not really my thing but I can appreciate it Got very samey towards the end
It’s classic Brit Punk, perhaps the most famous punk band and record of all time. My main problem with the Sex Pistols is that so many other bands have done the same thing, but so much better. It’s not that this album is bad, it’s a classic for a reason, I guess it just feels so formulaic and tame by modern standards. “No Feelings” is and has always been my favourite track on this record, but there’s several live recordings that, in my opinion, are far better than what’s on this album. 3*
Cool bc they are punk legends but I personally need more melody
Personally this album was good but doesn’t live up to its legend. Probably a generational thing, it maybe suffers from me having heard everything it has inspired and then has improved on. Undoubtedly though one of the most important and inspirational albums of all time
Enjoyed this more than expected! Fun!
I liked this a lot more than I thought I would! Classic. 3.5
groundbreaking, important in music history, etc etc but I'd personally rather be listening to The Clash
I was told this was the greatest punk album of all time, but some people lie... like EMI
Favorite Track: Anarchy In The UK
Fun album but punk is not my thing anymore. Take away the punk and there's not much that this album offers. It's a piece of history for the music scene at that time.
pleasant
Even though I'm not a huge punk fan, this is not bad. It was probably super innovative back in the day. A really nice raw aggressive and emotional outpouring of music. Don't think I need to hear this again but I'm glad I heard it.
Not great, not terrible. I like punk, but this one was too simple
Highlights: God Save The Queen, Anarchy in the U.K., EMI. In a nutshell: Trademark punk. Drums and guitar are excellent. I was expecting more vitriol in Johnny’s voice compared to the lyrics (see No Feelings, Bodies). Unless time and over-saturation of Anarchy in The U.K. has dulled the impact. Didn't hate this album but not fawning over it. It's a "you need to hear it at least once" release for sure. Overall: 5/10
Good rock album. Definitely a vibe I’m into
Ja, det är ju punk. Det går fort, det skramlar och så vidare.
clear influence extending into current post-punk. hard to separate John Lyndon now vs then
Cool stuff. Not sure if I'd go out of my way to listen again.
Hyperaktiver Punk Album mit viel Power. Es ist das einzige Studioalbum der Band. Bezeichnend ist, das die finalen Mischungen so durcheinander waren, das niemand weiß welche aktuellen Bandmitglieder aktuellen gerade mit gewirkt haben. „Gos Save The Queen“ & „Anarchy in the UK“ sind prägnante Beispiele dieses Stils.
Riotous punk, an alright listen
Appreciate and respect the influence they had. Not a huge punk fan in general.
You can hear the influence the Sex Pistols had on music, and to do so with only 1 album is quite incredible to be honest. I'm just not a fan I'm afraid, I can appreciate it. Pretty monotonous to listen to a whole album in a sitting. That being said, ive given much worse albums a 3 and this isn't bad it's just not my taste, I can respect the music, the movement. John Lydon is pretty awful though 😂
Anger, politics, controversy, shock factor, aggression, bad language, attitude, this album has it all. Punk rock done properly. Love it!
I appreciate the impact, didn’t do too much for me
Me esperaba mucho más, es un punk bastante normal. Claramente su importancia es literal y de precursion.
I get the significance of the album it just sounded a bit one note for me
Anarchy in the UK :-)
It's okay. Kinda realising that I'm not too crazy about punk. There are some good tracks here but I do wish there was a little more going on here. Best Track: Anarchy in the UK Worst Track: EMI
Just ok. Not as edgie as I remember
It’s The Sex Pistols. They blazed a trail like no other. Great album when you are feeling ornery and have a need to disrupt.
This album started imo the greatest movement in music history. Joy Divison, The Cure, Echo and the Bunnymen, The Smiths..... All wouldn't have started making music were it not for this album. That said, there's better music out there, and some of the shit said is not exactly politically correct by today's standards. Tf did Queen Liz do anyway?
With 2024 ears it's a bit difficult to understand why this was such a shock at the time. It's pretty tame. And a bit plodding to be honest. Other, later punkbands were faster, angrier, had better songs. Okay, maybe there's never been another punk singer as 'sneer-y' as Johnny Rotten. But for instance the stuff he did with PiL sounds fresher and more forward looking than this.
Well, my streaming service decided to shuffle the whole album around on me for no reason, but I didn't even realize until Anarchy in the U.K, so I suppose that goes to show my interest. I can like punk pretty easy, and I even like John Lydon's other project, Public Image Ltd, quite a bit. But this album is just boring. It's what you think of first when you hear the word "punk," and it knew that even when it came out. This may be the voice of a generation, but it is infamously not always true to its words, and while I don't know this album for it as much as some, it is hard to forget when realizing how many other great punk albums and even post-punk albums were doing this album's schtick but... better. It's okay, Anarchy in the U.K. is great, but you really only need one or two tracks from this album before you get the whole picture, and I think it's public opinion shift over time makes some amount of sense.
While I appreciate what the Sex Pistols did for the punk scene and while they are a prolific band in their own right, this album is fine. It’s good to have on in the background while doing chores.
I know this is a seminal album, but I found all the songs blended. Very few stood out apart from the big hits.
These days, my opinion of the Sex Pistols runs a lot more negative than they used to. The fact they're a punk rock boy band. The mere existence of "Bodies". The idea, which I subscribe to, that it's their fault the Dead Kennedys eventually had to write "Nazi Punks Fuck Off". And I'm not even gonna get into what Mr. Rotten's been up to recently--let's just leave it at "I'm disappointed." But like I've said many times before, I review music, not people. I hate Kanye, but I've given his albums positive scores. The people in my group know this well enough, so I won't dwell on it. I will briefly mention "Bodies", though. An anti-abortion song? Ew! No! As much as I'd wanna pretend I don't let my politics get in the way of my enjoying things--THE INCREDIBLES, for instance, is **incredibly Randian**, but it's still one of the best Pixar films ever made--but sometimes, I just have to put my foot down. This is one of those times, and honestly, I didn't even listen to it this time around. OK, OK, OK. All of that stuff talking about politics is out of the way. Let's actually get to the damn music on this thing. Which--it's sort of weird to not wanna talk about its politics, honestly. Part of the reason why it's famous, or infamous, is for how shocking songs like "God Save The Queen" and "Anarchy In The U.K." were at the time. I mean, calling the monarchy a "fascist regime?" Oh, my monocle! Hell, even the fact that the cover used the word "bollocks" was controversial. And maybe it still is, who knows? Of course, it's 2024 right now. The only thing shocking about the Sex Pistols is the general fact that way too many punk rockers have turned hard conservative. So, finally, finally, lemme finally get off this kick and actually talk about the gawddamn music like I said I was going to ten minutes ago. Frankly, there's a part of my brain that's still 13 or 14, that still likes this music as much as I did back then because it's loud and bashy, with some snotty British voice shouting over it. Surely, I may have been vaguely aware of what these songs were about, but I couldn't tell you exactly what. There were just a lot of parts I liked to shout along to, or imitate to myself, even when I wasn't listening to the music. Although much of my opinion about the band and its members has changed and evolved over the years, I think I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy my time with the music. That said, however, now that I have way more experience with punk than I used to--your Clashes, your Green Days, your Bad Religions, your Ramoneses--this album jus' feels... I'unno, maybe a little too simple? I mean, yeah, it's punk, and given the skill level of some of the band members... Plus, y'know, it **is** basically the grandfather of punk, so it can be cut **some** slack. I'm just left thinking about what other bands would do with this style in the future, and... Well, I don't think it's any surprise that these days I mostly engage with the Sex Pistols via covers of "God Save The Queen" and "Anarchy In The U.K.". Check out Motörhead's cover of the former, by the way; Lemmy does it great. All in all... I think when it came to Sex Pistols, I think they were more concerned about being shocking to the establishment of the time than anything else. Sure, they managed to bang out a couple of good tunes, and ("Bodies" aside) I won't say this is a bad album. Like, clearly it still resonates with people enough that it made a top 100 placement on the 2020 Rolling Stone 500. Goodness, Kurt Cobain even claimed that they were more important than The Clash--y'know, "the only band that matters," as they were dubbed. For my money, however... I guess I'm at a 3? More specifically, a 3.5, but I just can't bring myself to round it up. It's fine for what it is, and I'll never be able to say I don't enjoy it, but there's been so much better punk music since. (I mean, this ain't worth much, but I'll take it over PIL anyway. Yeah, that's another shot at METAL BOX fer yah. Truly, the worst thing I could say about Mr. Rotten these days.)
Didja ever get the feeling you've been cheated? I tried to listen with historical ears, mapping out possible influences and paying attention to the elements that will show up again in other punk and post-punk and heavy metal bands. And with open ears; honestly it struck me as less noisy and more competent than I'd been lead to believe. (Much as, yeah, better musicians and better producers are going to take these ingredients and make better albums.) But it's so hard to separate from the story - the naked cash grab, the naughty boys saying naughty words and pretending it's revolution, the overwhelming boringness of nihilism. And, frankly, it was never written for a middle manager in his mid-50s. There just isn't anything there for me, except a historical artifact. The great rock and roll swindle, indeed.
Noisy
one of those albums that has to be taken in its cultural context. As another reviewer noted (although not made much of at the time) the Sex Pistols were really a punk boy band manufactured to fill a niche and with all the hype their PR could make. Even given that they still sound full of energy and with a couple of great tracks although the whole is a bit repetitive.
Can't deny the impact and it's got a few great tunes it's a bit basic really
This is hard. By virtue of having once been 14 years old, I know most of the songs on this album well. While they are probably meant to shock and offend, for me this is basically easy listening; I can happily put this on on the background and work, potter around the house etc. But not all of the music is very good, and there aren't any songs which make me think "oh that's a very good song". So this is probably a 2 or a 3. Maybe a 3 based on other albums I've given a 3 to.
It’s ok. I don’t need to listen to it, but I can tolerate it because I know what the Sex Pistols mean to that time and genre
This record sounds just like I expected it to… a sound you can smell. A dingy pub with beer soaked carpet, body odor, ciggys and a waft of anarchy. I kinda dig it.
In a strange twist, I actually like this album more than when I tried listening to it in my early twenties. That’s not to say I particularly like it now, but I really didn’t like it then. They’re not the most musically talented group, but then that’s never been a requirement for a punk band. And this is one of the most quintessentially punk bands. The significance of this album in that regard is undeniable, not just in the music but in the fashion, attitude…they were the whole package. Like this album or not, I have to give extra credit for the place of this album in music history. I’m going with 3/5 because for me it’s a 2, but it probably deserves at least a 4 for significance alone.
I thank it for it's service but I don't enjoy it
These punks sure are rockin out!
Incredibly influential and iconic album, but my ratings are based on my personal enjoyment and the quality of the songs, not their effect on music history. From that perspective, this is a solid punk album. The lyrics are incendiary and provocative, and the instrumentation formed the foundation of the classic punk sound. Johnny Rotten is an effective front-man, though his voice is probably the worst of any professional singer I've ever heard.
Fun!
Yup, it's the Sex Pistols.
It’s great for old school punk.
Good fun punk
Hell yea
Not a hugeeeee punk fan but this does it well enough for me
I know this is iconic but I got pretty bored
Glad to have listened to such an iconic album, and enjoyed the lyrics, but it’s not something I would choose to listen to everyday - 3.5/5 The rising inflection style of the vocals can get very grating towards the end, but I understand that adds to the defiant vibe which is great. Reviewed 02/09/2024
I liked this more than I expected to, but probably won’t listen again
The Sex Pistols hold a special place in my heart as a band I think lacks musical talent but had the vision to become very successful anyway. They're a little bit like Nickelback in that way. The Sex Pistols have their spot in history helping to create the punk genre and for that, I'll give them a salute and skip their songs when they turn up on shuffle.
Hard
I was expecting to either love this album or hate it, and honestly... I just don't feel that strongly about it. Favorite track: "God Save the Queen."
Kinda better than I expected. 3.5/5
Billy Joe Armstrong of Green Day has a nice rightup on the Sex Pistols in the rolling stones 100 greatest artists of all time. Growing up listening to Green Day, it's funny how my immediate impression was that Sex Pistols sounds a lot like Green Day, replacing Armstrong's California punk voice with a British one. This is definitely a noisy album, there's a lot going on at once and there is a chaotic angry quality that works well and feels important. I think I prefer the progressive building and more stripped back music from the Clash, but I get how this band is important for grunge and garage rock and a lot of music I hold dear. That being said, I hate the British accent.
Solid 3
Cartoonish, but necessary for the evolution of music.
+: Holidays in the Sun, Liar, No Feelings, God Save the Queen, Problems, Seventeen, Anarchy in the U.K., Bodies, Pretty Vacant, New York, E.M.I 7,6/10
Classic album. Kicked off the punk movement.
-my mom apparently really likes this album, didn’t know it was their only one. it’s pretty good, I really like the themes and energy though it gets a bit repetitive at points. Would probably give it a 3.5 -Favorites are Problems and God Save the Queen
This is one of those albums I’ve heard so many times that it’s lost its thrill for me, but you can’t discredit it. The raw, unpolished, and in-your-face production really brings out the aggressive energy this album carries.
Like the review on Apple Music says, it takes itself too seriously and doesn’t like anyone. I think the myth is better than the reality.
gürültülü. bazen sardı. dinlemem ama.
Some obnoxious yelling, was good to finally listen to my CD of this
Always the same problem with Johnny and the boys: Love some of it, annoyed by some of it.
A couple of really nice punk songs
strange, not my type really
Yeah... didn't work for me. Too repetitive and only a couple of good songs
Venekunta arvioi klassikon 3/5
Klassikohan tämä toki on, mut nyt kyl huomaa et kaikki biisit alkaa aika samoin eikä vaihtelua muutenkaan oo mitenkään ylenpalttisesti.
All the songs sound the same and they're all just mid.
Never Mind the Bollocks definitely has its moments. “God Save the Queen,” “Anarchy in the UK,” and “Problems” still sound pretty awesome—loud, messy, and full of attitude. I remember getting into early punk back in high school and putting “Anarchy” on one of the CD-Rs I burned. It felt rebellious at the time, like I was in on something wild. That said, the rest of the album doesn’t do a whole lot for me now. It’s more of a cool piece of music history than something I go back to.
Mid. Meh
so british
A bit repetitive at times but was much more listenable than I expected.
Low three
This is a socially significant album full of raw energy and it absolutely made waves in 1977. It's still good today but because we're numb to the offensiveness it once stood for it doesn't really hit as hard (we're also not wankers). I watched the FX miniseries "Pistol" about a year ago and liked it way more than I thought I would. It's a great story and going into this album I had a greater appreciation for the band and members in general. There's some classics on the setlist but a lot of them sound the same. Still a solid listen and rounding up because of all the shoite I now know about them.
This short lived band made a huge impact on the punk scene and the only album they out out with is the boiled down essence of British rebellion/chaos...even the recording of it. The band name and the band member names are also a tribute to the genre. Most songs do sound similar but they all have guts and grit. Anyone against the stuffy UK establishnent would have loved this when it came out. Records stores that refused to sell it for its offensive tone is pure bollocks and they can go suck a sex pistol...2.7.
Good old fashioned punk. Completely understand the impact and the groundwork that this album and band laid. Sadly, this type of punk has never been my cup of tea. All respect to the album though. I'd give it a 4 for pure merit and respect, but this is my list, so it gets a very strong 3.
3.5 -- very meh most of the time
While I understand (at least vaguely) the importance of these seminal acts in establishing and promulgating the punk genre, this isn't really what I go in for when I seek out "punk." In early punk fashion, this album kind of sounds like shit. Super compressed and rough recordings, distorted to hell, with sneering vocals that deliberately lean into their accents. The hits are staples of the genre (God Save the Queen and Anarchy in the U.K.). Understandable why these have appeal -- they are well written, have solid choruses and catchy instrumental backing. Outside of the hits, I found few songs really to capture my interest -- they are fine, but like I said in the intro, not really what I go in for. This was fine, but not something I would expect to come back for any time soon. Meh 3 for me.
So much punk and noise rock for me today and recently as well we have had a lot. I knew the entire time that this sounded like Tony Hawk soundtrack and it came to fruition when Anarchy in the U.K. came on. As for the album, this is some punk that I tolerate the most (still not at all my type of music). The instrumentals were pretty repetitive like most punk for me. But the songs were actually good. Just realized that John Lydon is the vocalist in Sex Pistols and also Public Image LTD. He should stick with Sex Pistols because Public Image LTD is total bunk.
Getting a lot of Johnny Rotten these past couple weeks... I will say a few songs into this and I'm already enjoying it more than Public Image. That being said not all that much more. Punk be punkin' Anarchy in the UK is such a jam of a song. 100% in one of the Tony Hawk soundtracks.
I coudn’t get on with punk in the 70s and hated the Sex Pistols but it wasn’t that bad ! 3*
This had some good vibes, but my biggest complaint would be similar to Matt’s for the Paul Simon album. There’s a lot of “talk-singing.” Especially for this kind of music, I want to be able to jam out to it, but it takes away from it when I go to sing along.
An all-time punk album. I knew more of it than I expected and enjoyed it for the most part. I was also surprised it was really their only official album.
Did Johnny Rotten fart at the end? Nevertheless, he has the voice of an angel. Pure and well-trained.
Good angry and to the point. 3.5.
I'm going to leave my opinion on the Sex Pistols as a band out of this review and just review the music itself. First off, I hate punk rock. I should say, I hate most punk rock. Going into this album I was already rolling my eyes.... But to my surprise... I didn't mind it. The playing isn't as sloppy as punk music normally is. It's definitely nothing insane or ground breaking (or maybe it was for the time?). I dont know... It sounded like what an average rock band would sound like. Not bad. Not amazing. Johnny Rotten's vocals were decent throughout. Lyrics were rarely hit and mostly miss for me. But he delivered well. As far as that punk rock vocal sound goes. Almost gave this a 4... But it got pretty tiring after halfway through. But it's definitely a strong 3. A SURPRISINGLY strong 3.
Best bit of trivia from this album Johnny rotten got his nickname because of his rotten teeth. Ya know. I really like anarchy in the uk. Obviously this album was influential yadda yadda. For me, Im glad I’ve listened and can move on
Punky
Story behind this is better than the album, as is the recording setup. Some bangers, but tired now
I can def understand how this would have had such an subversive appeal back then. I admit I found myself bobbin my head to a few of them
classic album - it still sits in the softer early pop punk realm for me rather than actual hardcore punk, but still enjoyable
Gott pönk, ekki mitt uppáhalds, en gott engu að síður. Mjög áhrifaríkt gagnvart mörgu sem á eftir kom.
It’s just screaming
Listened to this album years ago and it didn't really click with me so it's interesting to hear it again now. It's a weird album where it's clearly massively influential but at the same time, not that enjoyable to listen to. Fav tracks: Pretty Vacant, God Save the Queen, Holidays in the Sun
This album wasn't bad. However, all the songs kind of sounded the same. And in every one, the singer sounded so angry at the world. Who hurt this man? 3/5
It’s edgy and not my style, but I didn’t hate it. And you can’t deny the impact it made at the time.
- really cool original punk rock - great guitar riffs - a real give no fucks attitude
It's pretty much what I expected a somewhat mainstream punk album to sound like.
Others did it better.
Good punk record, but no holy shit moments
As much as I find John Lydon a self important, cantankerous twat, he had a great voice and could write some good lyrics. I was never mad about the Pistols but it's a good album.
6/10
I'm not convinced anyone actually likes this album as much as they say they do, but they like the IDEA of this album an awful lot. There's so much better out there, but it was wildly influential and it helped create some of the stuff that, by comparison, overtook it completely.
Good ol’ classic punk, would be fun to put on if I’m getting drunk, or road need to get hyped or angry In general. 3.0
Monotone singing is always a tough sell for me, though the raw energy belting forth elevates this collection of tracks. Instrumentally, the drumming stood out to me most, but the ripping, repetitive chords on guitar are also above average. A few strong solos. More harmonic progressions than you'd typically expect from punk. Listened to: at home. Favorite tracks: Bodies, Problems
Very patchy album- some tracks are rotten - but the best songs - 'God Save the Queen' and 'Pretty Vacant' - are so good and the whole album is spiky, cartoony fun.
This isn't a bad album by any means, but not that compelling as far as punk rock goes. After 10+ songs with little to no variation I had an urge to turn it off, but eventually managed to make it all the way through the album. I understand its cultural significance and the way it propelled punk rock into mainstream, but I just don't think Sex Pistols are the best the genre has to offer. 2.5 stars
Iconic sound, a lot of the same IMO
Pretty decent.
It’s okay. I get why it would be crazy popular and wild when it came out, but to me all the songs sound nearly the same. Very sick, vicious guitars and the lyrics are definitely compelling especially Anarchy in the UK and God Save the Queen, but it all sounds so repetitive musically. I guess I like the spirit and ideology but wish there was more differentiation between tracks. 3/5
A historic album.
Conflicted - love the raw driving songs I just wish I hadn't seen pompousness of lead singer this seems counterproductive to the energy and in your face-ness of songs.
Iconique mais pas du tout mon style
could i write poetry to this? y
I’m good with when the Sex Pistols are mixed in with other music, but not a fan of a full album
Probably a 2, but I'm feeling generous.
6.5/10
Probably not as shocking, nearly 50 years on. Not as raw as I remembered either, and there's a nice groove to it at times. Still plenty full on though. Highlights: Holidays in the Sun, Liar, Anarchy in the UK, Sub-Mission. I enjoyed this but it's not something I'll come back to straight away.
You can definitely hear the influence on pop punk. The music is energetic and generally fine (if a bit rudimentary and underproduced), but Johnny Rotten's voice can get grating and his persona tends towards annoying for the sake of being annoying (though I guess that was his shtick). Highlights: "Holidays in the Sun" (there's a bit of catchiness under the noise.), "No Feelings" (give it a bit of a gloss production-wise and this could be an early Green Day song), "Pretty Vacant" (Intro riff is cool, good drumming and guitar flourishes throughout) Notable: "Seventeen" (something about the gang vocals gives me Dropkick Murphys vibes)
Christgau gave this an A.
Good energy
This was exactly as expected, and was entertaining enough whilst also being something I don't want to hear again.
In my teens I didn't understand the appeal of this band at all, they sounded so unremarkable then I really liked Public Image Ltd. somewhere in my 20s, and heard so many bands that said they started up after a Sex Pistols show, and also came to appreciate rhythm guitar a lot. I think a bunch of these songs are filler, but the guitar is always good, and on the best it's amazing & works perfectly with the snotty irreverent vocals. The mythology around the Sex Pistols' influence is kind of a cool story, some undeniable influences and some just storytelling. As people and public figures they're a mix of interesting, baffling, completely dumb, surprisingly thoughtful & progressive or surprisingly stuck & conservative at random. music: appreciated. (⌐■_■)
Well-trod territory that, over time, has come to feel like Just A Three. Good, influential… The Clash is better, the Slits are cooler, and in the end this is just one album and the songs are pretty samey.
It's fine.
ok
An all-time great band name. And as punk albums go, very listenable. For all the talk of Sid Vicious not being a good bass player - it sure fits in just fine here.
Ok
Really not a huge fan of shouting as a form of singing but despite that there are some good moments on this 5/10
If you are going to defy authorities, why not get under their skin by any means necessary.
Whoever likes it.
pretty shit to be honest 2.7/5
It wasn’t for me but I can appreciate why it’s on the list and it’s historical significance.
Decent, not entirely my cup of tea but I can enjoy it none the less and understand why its iconic.
Been wanting to listen to this one for quite a while, since it contains a large number of the Sex Pistols' most famous songs. I will say that I appreciate what they have done for punk rock, but I am neither impressed nor disappointed with this album. It wasn't really anything groundbreaking and there was nothing that really stood out to me while I listened to it in the background while I worked. Favourites were Holidays In The Sun, No Feelings, and Anarchy In The UK. It's a classic and undoubtedly influential album, and includes many well known hits, but I just can't get myself into it that deeply. Default 3
3.4 Solid punk album if you don't know anything about them, very much less punk the more you learn about them. fave songs: holiday in the sun, seventeen, pretty vacant
Intersting
Alright
Le punk, c'est pas ma tasse de thé, mais c'est de la culture !
As loud and boisterous as ever.
When this landed, I couldn't be bothered. The concept of music made with the express intent not trying to be "good" musically was anathema. And having heard a couple of tracks, I basically felt like I had heard what I needed to. And guess what... that's true. After three songs, what more is there? As a social statement, as an institution, I'm on board. They certainly made their mark. And God damn, the letter they wrote to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame when they were being inducted is enough to cement the band in infamy, where they belong. (And yes, the HOF is a piss stain, Mr.Rotten. Well said.) But good lord, do people really set the proverbial needle on this record and listen through all the tracks for enjoyment? https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/sex-pistols-johnny-rotten-handwritten-letter-rock-hall/ P.S. The fact that Alexa won't say "bollocks" is another gold star for the band. But not in my review...
I don't know how to rate this thing. I've always felt this record was overrated, though the bangers still bang. But punk was always more of a singles genre than an album one. Johnny Rotten is a hell of a front man. His sneering, snarling, anti-singing still sounds dangerous and thrilling—more so than the band, I would argue. At the same time, though, I kind of wanted him to shut up after a few songs. He has one gear and it gets a little old. Also, today was the first time i ever listened to the lyrics for "Bodies," which still have the power to shock. So I guess that's something. Also, I didn't care for New York with his frequent use of "the other F word." But Pretty Vacant, Anarchy, and God Save the Queen are still pretty ferocious. i know it influenced a billion bands, but this is my "how much do i want to listen to this album" rating.
Great album from my childhood. I miss it. Not as good as I remember but still fun
I guess this is a hard album title to live up to but there was more bollocks on this than I was expecting. Favourite track: Pretty Vacant.
It just isn't as cool or shocking as it once was. To me, the Sex Pistols seem like any other punk band from the late 70s. "God Save the Queen" is a banger along with a few other tracks. NMtBHtSP has tracks that sound often sound indistinguishable to each other. However, punk and most of its sub-genres wouldn't exist without the Sex Pistols. 3 stars for revolutionising music and paving the way for music artists I love, also for being quite good.
ehhh
Puck sucks but I guess I’ll give it to the godfathers
Not really a fan of UK punk; prefer stuff like NOFX. Nevertheless, I can appreciate The Sex Pistol's place in history. Favourite tracks: Holidays In The Sun, God Save The Queen, Pretty Vacant, EMI.
Fun, influential album. Some of the songs are a bit samey, and the musicianship leaves something to be desired, but this album is the blueprint for generations of punk rockers thereafter.
Most albums start off great and start to slowest go down, this one is the other way around. The beginning of the album is okay, but after it gets better and better. Starting to like the sex pistols more and more. Favourite songs: - God save the queen - Anarchy in the UK - EMI
Holidays in the Sun - 4 Bodies - 3.5 No Feelings - 3.5 Liar - 2.5 Problems - 3 God Save the Queen - 4 Seventeen - 3.5 Anarchy in the UK - 4.5 Sub-mission - 3 Pretty Vacant -4 New York - 3 EMI - 3.5 Average - 3.5 One of the best/most iconic Punk albums ever
i actually love the sound of them but i hate the sex pistols which is why this is a 3/5
fun album to listen to
Good classic punk album. I love how the Sex Pistols hate everyone equally, including themselves. 3 stars
My least favourite era of punk, surprisingly, bit it's not terrible
Awesome. My only qualm is how similar each song sounds upon first listen— but I listened a second time and it made it easier to appreciate each song for what it is. I knew about Sid and Nancy but I had never really listened to Sex Pistols—this was great and exactly what I expected! But I might prefer The Clash when it comes to 70s punk? Don’t quote me on that. 3.8
Whiny and crass but in a good way! Definitely more of a Clash fan myself but it was cool to listen to a different early interpretation of punk. This album would rate higher for me if it was a little less samey.
I get it, but damn
It's not my style, but respect!
I'm more of a Stooges man but por que no los dos? This album, despite it's loaded history and holes to poke at it's "punk authenticity" is still a pretty fun ride. They owe the album's success to the very "unpunk" OG bassist Glen Matlock who loved a diverse array of music, including the Beatles. The other secret ingredient was guitarist Steve Jones, who played bass on most of this album after Matlock quit, as low-end replacement Sid Vicious could barely play the instrument he was hired to play. If you want authenticity, look to the Stooges, look to the Clash, but some people involved in this album clearly understood the assignment and made sure this created a crater that made ripple effects for decades to come. Compliments to the chef on that note, at least.
Oh boy here I go getting radicalised again. I was ready for this to be a 5/5 but sadly not, my love for a few tracks did a lot of heavy lifting for the rest of the album. A lot of the songs sounded very similar, and I get that the lyricism is meant to be incredible but that only works if I can understand what the lyrics are. 3/5. All crimes are paid, including insane vocal performances.
Very edgy, I liked it when I was 15.
Sure it’s important, without the Sex Pistols we wouldn’t have many other, and better bands. It’s certainly not bad, and my guess is at the time of release it felt very provocative, but it was almost immediately usurped by much better, real punk bands. And nowadays it’s impossible to listen to without hearing the racist comments John Lydon made just last week, and in previous years.
I’ve tried in the past, and I tried again today. I just can’t get into it.
Just noisy
Great soundtrack for mallrat anarchism but the anarchist died and the arrogant douche survived and the inspiration ran dry
Listened to this album while doing some indoor rowing. Helped me set a great time. Classis.
Not bad, not amazing.
I get that it’s important. It must have been a welcome punch in the face for the British youth of 1977. It hit a lot of points in time that worked for it then , I’m not sure that it still works quite the same today. It doesn’t have any real pull over me, I think that’s what I’m trying to say.
Revolutionary at the time I'm sure, but just sound like the same mediocre song over and over.
Great punx riffs but doesn’t really hold up well today.
I’m a product of my time, and the subversive nature of punk rock is lost on me. Sadly, it all ends up sounding the same. Something for me to work on, but in the meantime I probably won’t be seeking out this album for additional listens
Gotta be in the right mood to listen to this, but it works if you are.
Not as good as I remembered it being, but not the worst.
It was okay. Wasn't a terrible album. Anarchy in the UK definitely saved it. Didnt hate it as much as i did when i first heard it
Listening to this album finally helped me realize that I'm not really that much of a fan of punk--I mean, if I can't love *this* album, then there's not much hope for me, sadly. (Further irony is that this is a much more produced and mastered album than most punk albums (and I guess their only studio album), and yet they also did a fantastic job sounding like these were near-live one-take cuts.) Reading the Wikipedia entry for this album is a fun experience; I'm sure there are even longer and more minutely detailed entries on the site, but I feel like the "Bollocks" entry is what Wikipedia was made for. I particularly liked the anecdotes about Sid Vicious' and Johnny Rotten's interactions with Queen in the studio, and I was (perhaps foolishly) surprised to learn that Sid Vicious was an atrocious bass player. Regardless of my own personal reaction to it, it's pretty undeniable that this album was an instant and massive touchstone for music fans and bands alike.
I thought I was going to hate this album and it didn't meet expectations.
I ate shit and fell on some rocks after started listening so my vibes were off and every song kinda annoyed me cause I was feeling massive pain. I need to relisten when I'm in better spirits
Reminded me of tony hawk pro skater. Big fan of anarchy in the uk and first band I think of when I hear the genre punk.
Not my style, but I appreciate the art.
I respect what they did but rotten’s voice annoys me.
3/5. Would've been 2/5 but Anarchy saved it.
Submission was a good song, album not my style but was ok
3.7
i think theres better punk albums out there. i think on a surface level if you only interacted with a few of their songs you could read their lyircs and think "wow theyre maybe saying something here!" but any further analysis/introspection into what theyre actually saying and their other public stunts and performances you realize this is a band full of dudes who are anti-establishment just to be anti-establishment. there are solid tracks on this album! bodies, god save the queen, holidays in the sun, and emi are lyrically probably the strongest and makes this ranking not as low as it could despite me really not wanting to rate things as 3 star bc i feel like thats the same as answering "sometimes" on a behavioural survey. faves: bodies, god save the queen, holidays in the sun.
It really could have been such a solid punk album! They sound pretty good, some of the songs even venture into having good lyrics, but my god these dudes do not have a single interesting opinion or thought to share. The Sex Pistols are the best example of people who loudly talk about hating authority without a single real thought behind that vocal hatred. Bodies is interesting but sounds wildly conservative in my own personal interpretation (but at least it's saying SOMETHING). Holidays in the Sun, God Save the Queen, EMI, and a few others are good songs. I could easily have given this 4 stars instead of 3. But at a certain point it's like... if the only thing differentiating you from Kiss singing Rock and Roll All Nite is that you indulge in a different form of theatricality while singing essentially the same "authority SUCKS my band RULES" sort of thing then.. idk! Time to go listen to the Clash for a few hours.
An energetic and raw album that was fun to listen to. I don't know a lot about the history of punk rock but it's easy to recognize that this was a very influential and culturally significant album. I could definitely see myself revisiting this album because I enjoyed pretty much every song and there were some true bangers on there as well.
this is a decent 70s british punk album, but knowing that the clash are about to put out london calling in a few years, this looks pretty meh in comparison. there are a few solid tracks here but a ton of filler. also johnny rotten is a complicated person with some views i agree with and several prominent ones i do not. favorites: holidays in the sun, god save the queen, anarchy in the UK, pretty vacant
Solid album, close to a 4 but not quite enough.
Hurtigt lyttet igennem, føles dog stadig lidt for lang. Måske 3 - 5 minutter kortere. 🤷
This album felt like an Anarchy In the U.K. Not sure I felt like how I feel when I have Holidays In the Sun, though.
So much better than Public Image, I mean seriously it's night and day. I still am not over the moon about it, I'm gonna give it a 3 but that's just cause I don't love Lydon's voice and the lyrics get real repetitive in a lot of the songs. Otherwise I thought it was a solid album, this is the first one to sound like what punk would become, at least more so than The Clash. I also didn't realize this was their only album, pretty alright job for just a one and done.
- Das Album ist natürlich legendär! Das EINZIGE Album der Sex Pistols. - Nur wenige Bands haben Punk so sehr geprägt wie die Sex Pistols und das mit nur einem einzigen Album und (abgesehen von irgendwelchen weniger ernstzunehmenden Reunions) einer lediglich dreijährigen Bandgeschichte. Ein Mythos. - Die "schockierenden", rohen Auftritte zu der Zeit prägen das Bild von Punks über viele Jahrzehnte hinweg. Genau wie das Klangbild des klassischen Punk. - "God Save The Queen" und "Anarchy in the UK" sind natürlich absolute Punk-Classics. - Trotzdem bin ich, wenn man die großen Punk Bands nebeneinander stellt, doch immer schon ein viel größerer Fan von The Clash, die einfach variabler waren aber trotzdem an der Rotzigkeit nicht eingebüßt haben. - Insgesamt cool, aber hat mich emotional nicht 100% abgeholt Rating: 3,25/5
- Ein absoluter vlinder Fleck bei mir. Ich kenne die Sex Pistols, ich kenne "die" Songs von denen. Darüber hinaus absolut NOTHING. - Einige sehr gute Songs, die auch vom im ersten drittel gesetzten Stil befreit funktionieren - Gemessen an Radikalität und Rohheit, die man von heutigen Bands kennt, verlieren die Sex Pistols natürlich vollkommen die Eigenschaft der Skandalband oder der Grenzüberschreitung, wodurch das Album glaube ich sehr an Überraschungsmoment verliert - Im Gesamteindruck ist mir dann aber doch etwas zu eintönig 3/5
3/5
Loved this as a kid, the first punk album i ever listened to. Punk Legitimacy aside, its an ok record. I get why i loved it as a kid but it feels slightly amateurish in its anger, especially when compared to albums like black flags damaged
HL: “Holidays in the Sun”, “God Save the Queen”, “Anarchy in the U.K.” A cause of a lot of better bands than the Sex Pistols, and a lot of worse ones, too January 25, 2024
Not sure why I didn’t listen to this back in the day. I think if it were etched into my 20 something brain I’d score it higher. As it is, I give it a 3.5 rounded down to 3.
Solid classic punk album, couple of great songs, some filler.
Love that Alexa bleeps “bollocks”. Great fun album - not necessarily the best breakfast fare :)
Definitely a lot of energy and overall a vastly important album, but not my bread and butter. I liked it enough but wasn't one of my favorites.
Rrrrright! Godverdomme wat een energie. Riffs en melodieen onwijs catchy en Johnny in topvorm. Toch nog heel wat nieuwe nummer ontdekt zoals Holidays in the Sun en Liar. Submission is een irritant nummer. shout-out naar Sid voor de retestrakke baslijnen.
It still hits what can I say
Definitiv damals ein innovatives Album.
Terrible musicians if you can call them that but extra star for the anarchy
Gran tema God Save the Queen
Recognized Where is my mind, good song. Overall not bad, but not something I would listen to often.
it's a historic punk album, but I don't think it's extraordinary.
good classic rock, british invasion. 3
Iconic and certainly a couple of tunes on it but punk overall is overrated so shut up.
Great voice. High energy. This must’ve been awesome to hear live.
Quintessential SP sound. Abrasive, political, punk.
Great rock and roll and I like the song abt the queen. But I mostly glossed over this album. I can rock to it but nothing worked me up.
Lifi pönkið! Bara ekki of mikið af því í einu. Mér finnst þetta fjör en lögin renna samt saman í eitt og platan hefði ekki mátt vera mikið lengri áður en ég hefði fengið nóg.
En hier hebben we weer die punk-stem. Toch past die beter dan bij (veel te) veel andere albums die we voor onze kiezen kregen. Het past wellicht beter bij iets meer agressieve muziek. Het is prima muziek voor als je een beetje gefrustreerd bent, in dit geval vanwege de veel te vaak voorkomende punk-zang in deze lijst.
Straight ahead punky garage grunge, not much variation in tone or timbre, lead vocals in your face, sounds like teen spirit.
Johnny Rottens vocals are not for me. I can appreciate the influence they had on punk.
3 Stars (8/15)
sounded very loud!
3.3 stars rounded down. Better as an influence. "Holidays in the Sun", "God Save the Queen", "Anarchy in the UK", and "Pretty Vacant" are best tracks and mostly the singles of the band's only real album.
Yeah not too bad. Some good ol fashion punk.
like 2 songs that kinda bang. Dogwater instrumentals tho
This would’ve gotten me torqued if I was a British teen in the 70’s. Not just the messages but the playing is really tight and it has a huge, booming sound for its time
Enjoyed this after all these years (used to have a cassette of it in the 80s). Some good tracks I'd forgotten - Problems, No Future. Obviously lacks the shock factor these days and if anything it made me smile fondly, which I'm sure isn't what they were going for!
A much-needed ear cleanse after two days of country lovelorn angst which I guess in some small way replicates what this album would have sounded like at the time. Ripping everything up and starting again. All these years later, it sounds like straightforward noisy rock n roll to me. Not so shocking any more. Fave track - Pretty Vacant
Das war das erste vorgeschlagene Album am 27.12.2023
God save the queen, anarchy in the uk
Classic
It still sounds angry but less dangerous
Must have been so hard-hitting when it came out!
Enjoyable listen
Pure anarchy. Fave: Submission.
OG Punk.
Obviously critically important, but some lyrics have not stood the test of time.
Anarchy for the U.K.! Not bad, but the songs are all a bit too similar for my liking.
Pure punk. But I need something more for punk to become great. Nontheless it's good punk.
With the history of the Sex Pistols being what it is, the music feels like a secondary reason for their fame. I was familiar with a few songs, and did not expect there to be any hidden gems. I was right. The singles are actually kind of good, but I don’t need a full album of this music. 2.6
Classic album
thought and wish I'd like this more than I did... good but not special, not coming back to it
Decent Punk Rock
Very British. This the type of music to play in a racing game or a "punk" aesthetic video game. Not gonna lie, these all sound the same
I feel a mix of excitement over the energy trapped within this record and annoyance that all the songs sound so similar to one another. I was pretty into the first half but then lost interest, except when the great “Anarchy in the UK” played, of course.