GWAR has spent over four decades assembling a legacy defined by outrageous performances and an unforgettable musical style. Often celebrated for their theatrical concerts replete with foam latex costumes, oversized weaponry, and even decapitated body parts, these shock rockers masterfully blend theatricality with raw musical talent. Attending a GWAR concert typically guarantees that you’ll leave drenched in the remnants of their sensational onstage antics.
Formed in Richmond, Virginia, in 1984, GWAR has pushed the boundaries of shock rock, crafting songs that delve into themes like cosmic destruction, rampaging dinosaurs, along with the always-pertinent tropes of sex, drugs, and violence. Their latest single, “Lot Lizard,”from the multimedia project The Return of Gor-Gor, is a powerful testament to their continued prowess. While many see GWAR as a mere spectacle, it’s essential to recognize their musical depth, particularly through these ten standout tracks that exemplify their mastery in the realm of shock rock.
10 “F-ck This Place”
The Blood of Gods (2017)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE6lohKcDmQ
Recognized as a critical milestone for the band, The Blood of Gods marks GWAR’s first album following the death of original vocalist Dave “Oderus Urungus”Brockie in 2014. Rather than disband, the group reunited with founding member Michael Bishop, who stepped in as Blothar the Barbarian. The emotional weight of grief resonates throughout the album, particularly in “F-ck This Place,”a candid reflection on the state of the world. With lines like “Oderus…left us stranded on this world of pus / And in death you have forsaken us / Oh, this planet f-cking sucks,”it’s no wonder the song has garnered a strong fan base, often serving as the finale to their live shows.
9 “A Short History Of The End Of The World (Part VII (The Final Chapter (Abbr.)))”
We Kill Everything (1999)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx6hgF7pAd8
The turmoil following Brockie’s death nearly spelled the end for GWAR. Their album, We Kill Everything, is often labeled as the band’s creative nadir, marked by a heavy reliance on theatricality over substance. The humor in the lyrics often ventured into farce, leading Brockie to describe this era as the “silly years.”However, even in this challenging phase, the instrumental “A Short History Of The End Of The World (Part VII: The Final Chapter (Abbr.))”showcased the band’s musical proficiency, frequently featured in their live performances during climactic moments.
8 “Happy Death Day”
Violence Has Arrived (2001)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nU5-I008bg
After a tumultuous period, GWAR rebounded in 2001 with Violence Has Arrived, showcasing their renewed commitment to aggressive, intense metal. Sentimentality intermingled with powerful tracks like “The Apes of Wrath,””Biledriver,”and “Immortal Corrupter,”establishing them as staples in GWAR’s live sets. Perhaps the standout track is “Happy Death Day,”which marries their fierce musical energy with characteristic humor, making it one of the band’s most beloved songs.
7 “The Private Pain of Techno Destructo”
Carnival of Chaos (1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqVaQpdX7ds
The creative powers behind GWAR—Dave Brockie and Hunter Jackson—are akin to the band’s artistic parents. Brockie was the musical mastermind, while Jackson contributed the visual flare of the band’s identity. Carnival of Chaos spotlighted Jackson’s character, Techno Destructo, weaving narrative depth into their performance art. Jackson’s portrayal of various adversaries and his backstage contributions solidify his integral role in the GWAR universe.
6 “Je M’Appelle J. Cousteau”
Hell-O (1988)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxz-iBlVumM
GWAR’s 1988 debut, Hell-O, was birthed from a comedic origin story, evolving from Brockie’s earlier punk band, Death Piggy. Their sound predates the heavier metal influences they would later embrace, and while it may sound unrefined today, it still hints at the potential they would later realize. The track “Je M’Appelle J. Cousteau”humorously portrays the titular character as an underwater kingpin, showcasing Brockie’s early vocal prowess along with the band’s unique blend of absurdity.
5 “Saddam a Go-Go”
This Toilet Earth (1994)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p20PijYVgG4
This Toilet Earth featured one of GWAR’s most memorable songs, “Saddam a Go-Go,”blending sharp humor with socio-political commentary. The track received notable recognition, including exposure in mainstream media such as the video game Beavis and Butt-Head, cementing its pop culture relevance. Despite a tumultuous relationship with their label, the infectious horns and playful lyrics of “Saddam a Go-Go”highlight the band’s knack for cutting satire.
4 “Gor-Gor”
America Must Be Destroyed (1992)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30TQ-zSfwgs
GWAR’s third studio album, America Must Be Destroyed, nearly clinched them a Grammy nomination, thanks to its audacious concept video Phallus In Wonderland. The track “Gor-Gor”stands out for its heavy riffs and is often regarded as an anthem during live shows due to its engaging narrative involving a dinosaur. The album encapsulates GWAR’s signature blend of crude humor and heavy metal delivered with a provocative punch.
3 “Maggots”
Scumdogs of the Universe (1990)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KATsSBtryhw
With the release of Scumdogs of the Universe, GWAR embraced its classic lineup, marking a pivotal moment in their evolution. This album exemplifies their artistic identity and musical evolution, boasting songs like “Maggots”that have retained a lasting impact, frequently appearing in their live repertoire. Its catchy hooks and frantic energy underscore why it’s often celebrated as one of the band’s definitive tracks.
2 “Fly Now”
Battle Maximus (2013)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y43HwC8l7Ak
In a somber tribute, GWAR’s 2013 album Battle Maximus honors the memory of Cory Smoot, who portrayed Flattus Maximus and passed away unexpectedly. The song “Fly Now”serves as an emotional nod, with lyrics reflecting deep introspection and grief. Brockie’s heartfelt delivery as Oderus speaks to the love and camaraderie within the band, revealing the personal stakes behind their brutal facade.
1 “Sick of You”
Scumdogs of the Universe (1990)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dbnm-0r3suM
GWAR’s ethos of defiance and outsider status shines through in their iconic track “Sick of You.”This anthem of discontent captures the raw sentiment shared among its fans. With simple yet pointed lyrics, the band channels its frustration towards societal norms and injustices, creating a connection with fellow outcasts. It’s a song that not only defines GWAR’s legacy but resonates deeply with those who feel marginalized.