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By Mark McConville
markmcconville1990@hotmail.co.uk

It’s been 25 years since the release of Green Day’s complex masterwork, Nimrod. Nimrod fell into the lap of punk in 1997 and ruffled the feathers of the genre while also featuring a song that changed Green Day’s musical trajectory in “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life).”

Blistering in its content, Nimrod offers a grouping of in-your-face songs that rarely miss a beat. Despite its greatness, Nimrod isn’t held in the same regard as 1994’s Dookie, a record that catapulted Green Day to superstardom and beyond. But Nimrod has a cult following, memorable moments, and catchy hooks. Frontman Billie Joe Armstrong picked up where he left off with Dookie and continued to galvanize himself amongst the masses.

It’s been said that Green Day lacks the urgency and inherent imperfections of a genuine punk rock band. Despite their success, Green Day has been shoved aside by the punk faithful, who feel they are too polished. You’ll hear that Green Day’s music is “too commercial” and hasn’t got the abrasive sound to fit the established norm. 

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Well, you know what? Nimrod exemplifies modern-day punk gloriously and originally, even if it’s a little soft around the edges.

While Nimrod isn’t Green Day’s most diverse work (American Idiot) or its most dark (Insomniac), the record allowed Green Day to hold serve and regain its footing after diverging from the blueprint of Dookie. In some ways, Nimrod saved Green Day from being swallowed by the void. Sure, it didn’t put them back front and center, but Nimrod gave Green Day fans punk fever, setting the stage for the grand notions to come.

For the uninitiated, let’s run through some of Nimrod’s most feverous tracks:

The opener, “Nice Guys Finish Last,” has well-structured, simplified riffs from Armstrong. He sneers so profoundly that he nearly combusts, showing that his rage has no limits. Lyrically, it confesses Armstrong’s distaste for glamour. 

“Hitchin’ a Ride” breaks conventions and is a well-rounded song full of snappy moments and an urgent riff. The chorus is a standout, too. But the best part is its utter lack of control as it spirals wayward. Mike Dirt’s urgent bassline and Tre Cool’s uber-steady drumming drive this one home with vigor.

“Redundant” creates an emotional connection by showing Armstrong’s vulnerable side through his lyrical genius. Again, the music is simple yet engaging, but that doesn’t hurt the track. But the best part about this track is the band’s cohesiveness throughout the song.

“Reject” is straight-up punk rock in all its glory. Armstrong purposefully places all his lyrical might into this, showing his attitude as a snot-nosed punk fiend. It’s loud; it’s unapologetic, and fiery. And Cool and Dirnt do their part to deliver a bone-crushing rhythm that shakes the roof.

For all its rage-filled menace, Nimrod is most remembered for Green Day, showing its nostalgic side with “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life).” Built on the back of a strong melody, Green Day’s antagonistic frontman relents, taking listeners on a journey through an acoustic dream. Without Dirnt and Cool accompanying him, Armstrong sings with subtle tones to remarkable results. 

Nimrod might not carry the weight of Dookie or the rage of Insomniac, but it’s fun and, more importantly, brought Green Day back to doing what they do best. The combination of punk rock thrills and a soft-spoken gem make Nimrod worthy of consideration some 25 years after its release.

If you’re new to Green Day or haven’t heard the record, you’re in for a treat. On October 22nd, 2022, Green Day’s label, Reprise Records, announced the 25th anniversary Nimrod reissue. So, if you’re a diehard or a newbie, be sure to grab the package will be available on January 27th, 2023.

All images courtesy of Getty Images/Wiki Commons

– Mark McConville (@Writer1990Mark) is a contributor for www.vwmusicrocks.com and may be reached at markmcconville1990@hotmail.co.uk