Starting with the awesome
"I Don't Need Society" and ending with the anthemic
"Explorer," D.R.I.'s debut album was an important stepping stone in the evolution of both
metal and
hardcore.
D.R.I. drew a line in the sand between the
American hardcore bands who wanted to stick close to the original
punk sound and bands who wanted to branch out into
heavy metal territory.
D.R.I.'s use of thunderous
heavy metal drumming and
California hardcore songwriting made
Dirty Rotten LP something special, putting them in a category with
Corrosion of Conformity and
Suicidal Tendencies as the forefront of a new movement. Their angry lyrics revolved around the usual political and social ills, but their approach was a staggering blend of pre-
grindcore blastbeats (that particular drumming style may have even had its first recorded instance here), blunt and simplistic guitar riffs, and an acidic vocal workout from the young
Kurt Brecht. His charismatic shout was the tone-deaf glue that kept the band together, especially in the face of abbreviated songs and sloppy playing. With some humorous lyrics, endless enthusiasm, and a penchant for short song times (only one song makes it past the two-minute mark),
D.R.I.'s debut was a landmark album that paved the way for exciting new
hardcore bands to spring up in its wake. ~ Bradley Torreano
