"XTRMNTR" is the sixth studio album by the Scottish rock band Primal Scream, released on the 31st of January 2000. The album marked a significant departure from their previous sound, shifting towards the edgier and angrier punk rock genre, while incorporating elements of electronic music, dub, noise and free jazz. Hailed for its experimental style, darker themes, and overtly political lyrics, XTRMNTR is considered a high point in the band's discography.
The album features several guest appearances, including the Chemical Brothers, Adrian Sherwood, and's Bernie Worrell. Due to its heavy use of distortion, electronic elements and more aggressive tone, "XTRMNTR" can be considered a significant departure from the band's earlier style. The album was notably successful, earning widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike. Notable tracks from the album include "Kill All Hippies", "Swastika Eyes", and "Accelerator".
The themes of the album are reflective of the social and political unrest at the time, specifically addressing issues like global capitalism and aerial bombardment. Primal Scream frontman Bobby Gillespie has cited the music of the Stooges and MC5 as influences for this album, but also acknowledged a diverse array of inspirations, such as Miles Davis and the dub reggae producer, Lee 'Scratch' Perry.
The album is often considered one of Primal Scream's most confrontational and politically charged releases. It was also a commercial success, reaching number 3 in the UK Albums Chart. Despite its abrasive sound, or perhaps because of it, "XTRMNTR" has consistently ranked among the greatest albums of the year 2000, and even the decade, in various music publications.
