profile-image

The Damned


"Anything" is the seventh studio album by the English punk rock band The Damned. Released on December 1, 1986, the album marked a period of transition for the band both stylistically and in their lineup. Known for their significant influence on the punk and post-punk movements, this album showcased a more polished and commercial sound compared to their earlier, rawer punk rock records. The album includes tracks such as "Anything," "In Dulce Decorum," and a cover of "Alone Again Or" by Love. These songs exemplify the band's move towards a more gothic rock and new wave sound, incorporating lush production and more complex musical arrangements than in their early work. This period was marked by several changes in the band's lineup, but it featured Dave Vanian on vocals, Captain Sensible on guitar, Roman Jugg on keyboards, Bryn Merrick on bass, and Rat Scabies on drums. "Anything" was supported by a tour but did not achieve widespread commercial success, leading to tensions within the band and a temporary disbandment after the album's release. Critically, "Anything" received mixed reviews and is often viewed as a departure from the band's punk roots. Nonetheless, it holds a place in the band's discography as a representation of their evolving sound during the mid-1980s. Following its initial release, "Anything" has been reissued several times, sometimes with additional bonus tracks or live material, allowing newer audiences to explore this phase of The Damned's music.