On this day June 9, 1987, Suicidal Tendencies released their second album Join the Army. Blending punk aggression with thrash metal precision, the album marked a turning point for the band and helped solidify their role in shaping crossover thrash.
Join the Army reached number 100 on the US Billboard charts, a major leap forward for a band emerging from the hardcore underground. It introduced a more refined sound while still maintaining the raw energy that defined their self-titled debut. The album featured tracks like Possessed to Skate and War Inside My Head, which became staples in their live shows.
This record also marked the arrival of guitarist Rocky George, whose playing added a technical edge that elevated the band’s musical complexity without losing its street-level authenticity.
80s insight: Suicidal Tendencies showed that the 80s underground was just as influential as the mainstream. Join the Army brought skate culture and thrash attitude into the wider spotlight.
Join the Army reached number 100 on the US Billboard charts, a major leap forward for a band emerging from the hardcore underground. It introduced a more refined sound while still maintaining the raw energy that defined their self-titled debut. The album featured tracks like Possessed to Skate and War Inside My Head, which became staples in their live shows.
This record also marked the arrival of guitarist Rocky George, whose playing added a technical edge that elevated the band’s musical complexity without losing its street-level authenticity.
80s insight: Suicidal Tendencies showed that the 80s underground was just as influential as the mainstream. Join the Army brought skate culture and thrash attitude into the wider spotlight.
