Pink Flag exists as one of the most influential albums that most fans never seem to acknowledge. The likes of Minor Threat, Minutemen and many other early punk and hardcore bands look reverently to Wire for their almost completely radical and revolutionary take on 70's dinosaur rock arrangements and how they completely threw them right out the window. Whereas rock of the era was overflowing with progressive rock wankering or a very formulatic songwriting approach designed for radio comfort, Wire broke down conventional structures into bursts of attitude and aggression with some songs barely lasting a minute. At the same time, Wire offered a wealth of great guitar riffage with extremely memorable songs like "Champs" or "Mannequin". Singer Colin Newman sported a prototypical snotty punker's voice with a serious English accent that many bands would emulate over the years. In fact, their brevity, lack of orthodox methods and attitude would act as a blueprint for the vast majority of punk rock as it began its explosion in the mid to late 70s. While Wire would remain in this particular area of music for a scant few years, their influence and Pink Flag's lasting impression on punk rock would forever change the face of music. This is one of the most required albums for anyone who is wishing to learn more about the roots of punk rock.

Review by John Chedsey

Review date: 05/2001

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