That What Is Not

The Los Angeles Times wrote that Lydon "has been able to stay somewhat current by rocking persuasively and directing his still considerable bile toward such germane targets as censors and militarists."[10] Entertainment Weekly wrote that the album "showcases PIL’s brutal version of modern dance rock, an angry sound that pummels rather than lulls."[5] Trouser Press wrote that the songs "display either a loss of conviction, an absence of inspiration or a grave lack of effort."[11]

All tracks written by PiL

• John Lydon – lead vocals (uncredited on actual album packaging)
• John McGeoch – lead guitar
• Gregg "J.P." Arreguin – rhythm guitar
• Allan Dias – bass, backing vocals, keyboards
• Curt "Kirkee B." Bisquera – drums, percussion

with:

• Tower of Power – horns on "Covered" and "Good Things"
• Jimmie Wood – harmonica on "Covered", "Love Hope" and "Good Things"
• Bonnie Sheridan – background vocals on "Good Things"

"Acid Drops":

• John Lydon (1992): “[The song is about] censorship – that particularly relates to America, because there's a lot of vested interest groups, like all these religious fanatics. They're saying the human body, and everything connected with it, is dirty – that's wrong. I don't believe in censorship of any kind.”[12] “Well, [using a Sex Pistols sample for the song] started off as a joke. The producer threw it in one night for a laugh. I didn't find it too funny at first! But now I think it's perfect for the song. Oh, why not? I can't take myself too seriously.”[13] “I'd recommend him to anyone – he's the best producer I've ever worked with. He's a rarity, in that he speaks his mind. He doesn't do things for fashionable reasons.”[12]

"Luck's Up":

• John Lydon (1999): “'Luck's Up' is about the hopelessness of junkies and druggies.”[14]

"Think Tank":

• John Lydon (1992/99): “'Think Tank' is me having a go back at all the people who all the time rewrite and misrepresent the events of my past, usually middle-class journalists who were never there at the time.”[14] “Yes, ['Think Tank' is about rewriting] my history, in particular. I know Jon very well – I just don't like the slant of his book[15] with that upper-class attitude of those who know everything, while us working-class bums know nothing.”[12]