Smash And Kick by Bleifrei: A 1996 French Rock Gem That Kicks You in the Ears (and Makes You Like It)
Alright, buckle up, because we’re diving into Smash And Kick, the gloriously unhinged rock album from Bleifrei. Released back in ’96 via Lollipop Records, this French export is like a caffeinated teenager with something to prove—messy, loud, and impossible to ignore. If you’re looking for polished perfection, keep scrolling. But if raw energy and quirky songwriting float your boat, stick around.
Let’s talk tracks. First up, there’s “(I’m) Funbored.” Oh man, what even is that title? Is it fun? Is it boredom? Who cares—it slaps. The track barrels out of the gate with crunchy guitars and a vibe that screams, “We didn’t overthink this, and neither should you.” It’s catchy as hell, but not in a way that feels calculated. More like they accidentally stumbled onto brilliance while trying to annoy their neighbors. By the second chorus, I was shouting along like an idiot, which is always a good sign.
Then there’s “I Wanna Eat Your Dog.” Yeah, you read that right. This one’s weirdly unforgettable, mostly because… well, how could it not be? The lyrics are bonkers, but the riff is so damn satisfying you’ll forgive them for making you question your life choices. Plus, who hasn’t had days where eating someone’s dog feels like a reasonable response to modern society? No? Just me? Moving on.
The rest of the album keeps the chaos rolling. Tracks like “Beach Girl” bring some breezy vibes, while “Losing Control” leans into classic rock territory without taking itself too seriously. “I Too Sing America” throws shade at patriotism with a wink, and “S.O.D.S.” closes things out with enough grit to leave your ears ringing. It’s all over the place, but somehow it works.
What makes Smash And Kick stand out isn’t just its genre-bending antics or its refusal to conform—it’s the attitude. Bleifrei sounds like they’re having the time of their lives, even when they’re being sarcastic jerks. And honestly, isn’t that what rock music’s supposed to be about? Breaking rules, cranking amps, and reminding us all not to take life (or ourselves) too seriously?
So yeah, give Smash And Kick a spin if you’re tired of cookie-cutter playlists and need something that bites back. Sure, it’s rough around the edges, but maybe that’s the point. After all, sometimes the best albums are the ones that make you go, “Wait… did they really just say that?”
Final thought: If Bleifrei ever reunites, I hope they name their tour “Still Funbored, Still Hungry.”
