Napalm Death's "Smear Campaign," released in 2006, stands as a powerful statement against religious dogma and societal oppression. This album delivers free-thinking, free-form grindcore from the grind majors that dismantles religious burden myth-by-myth. With its relentless energy and incisive lyrics, "Smear Campaign" continues the band's tradition of merging ferocious soundscapes with thought-provoking themes.

 

The album opens with "Weltschmerz (Intro)," setting a dark, ominous tone that quickly escalates into a barrage of blast beats, distorted riffs, and Barney Greenway's unmistakable growls. Tracks like "Sink Fast, Let Go" and "Fatalist" exemplify the band's ability to combine speed and aggression with intricate musicality and lyrical depth. The inclusion of guest vocalist Anneke van Giersbergen (ex-The Gathering) on "In Deference" adds a haunting melodic layer, contrasting sharply with the album's brutal intensity.

 

"Smear Campaign" is not just an auditory assault but a call to question and dismantle the oppressive structures upheld by religious and political institutions. For fans of extreme music, this album is a testament to Napalm Death's enduring relevance and their unwavering commitment to challenging the status quo through grindcore.

 

Tracklist:

A1. Weltschmerz (Intro)

A2. Sink Fast, Let Go

A3. Fatalist

A4. Puritanical Punishment Beating

A5. When All Is Said and Done

A6. Freedom Is the Wage of Sin

A7. In Deference

A8. Short-Lived

A9. Identity Crisis

B1. Shattered Existence

B2. Eyes Right Out

B3. Call That an Option?

B4. Warped Beyond Logic

B5. Rabid Wolves (for Christ)

B6. Deaf and Dumbstruck (Intelligent Design)

B7. Persona Non Grata

B8. Smear Campaign

B9. Atheist Runt