Dig Me Out: 80s Metal – Détails, épisodes et analyse

April 1989: The world was a strange mix of excess and transition. On one side, the neon-drenched MTV era was still riding high, with hair metal bands like Poison, Motley Crüe, and Def Leppard dominating the charts with their polished, radio-friendly anthems. Power ballads and arena rock were inescapable, and rock fans were tuned in to Bon Jovi and Guns N’ Roses. Yet, beneath the surface, change was brewing. Bands like Jane’s Addiction and Soundgarden were slowly carving out a new, grittier sound that would soon transform the entire landscape.

Amid this backdrop, Blue Murder made their entrance—not as another Sunset Strip glam act, but as a hard-hitting supergroup led by a guitar hero who had already proven himself with Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake. John Sykes wasn’t looking to jump on the hair metal bandwagon. Instead, with Blue Murder, he aimed to bring the technical brilliance of the ’70s into the late ’80s, blending his bluesy, virtuoso guitar work with heavy grooves and intricate song structures. Sykes, along with legendary drummer Carmine Appice and fretless bass wizard Tony Franklin, formed a trio that drew on the legacy of hard rock and metal titans, delivering something deeper and more ambitious than most of their glam metal contemporaries.

Yet, for all their talent, Blue Murder wasn’t about writing catchy three-minute radio singles. Their self-titled debut album was a blend of towering guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and epic song structures that leaned closer to the ‘70s hard rock tradition of Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple than the bubblegum metal that filled the charts. But in 1989, as hair metal ruled the airwaves and grunge was lurking around the corner, Blue Murder stood out—ambitious, raw, and musically masterful.

The Road to Blue Murder

John Sykes had already proven his chops with Whitesnake’s 1987 album, a monster hit that spawned chart-topping singles and dominated MTV. But creative tensions with Whitesnake’s leader, David Coverdale, led to Sykes’ unceremonious departure just as the band was at the peak of its commercial success. Undeterred, Sykes began writing material for what would eventually become Blue Murder, determined to put together a powerhouse group that could rival his previous success.

At first, Sykes wasn’t planning to be the frontman. The band initially brought in some big-name vocalists to handle lead duties. Ray Gillen of Black Sabbath and Badlands fame was the first to join the lineup, contributing vocals to some early demos. But Gillen left after just a few months, reportedly due to creative differences. The next contender was Tony Martin, another former Black Sabbath singer, but he, too, didn’t stick around for long. After several auditions and some disagreements with the label Geffen Records, the A&R team suggested that Sykes himself take over lead vocals. Despite being known more for his guitar work, Sykes stepped up, and his voice turned out to be a perfect match for the band’s sound—gritty, soulful, and powerful.

With legendary drummer Carmine Appice, who had played with the likes of Jeff Beck and Vanilla Fudge, and fretless bass virtuoso Tony Franklin, fresh off his stint with The Firm alongside Jimmy Page and Paul Rodgers, Blue Murder had a lineup that was nothing short of rock royalty. The result was a self-titled debut that combined technical brilliance with bluesy hard rock, reflecting Sykes’ desire to channel the spirit of ’70s heavyweights like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, rather than chasing the more formulaic sound of the late-’80s hair metal scene.

Building the Sound: A Guitarist as a Frontman

For a guy who wasn’t originally a vocalist, Sykes delivered some serious vocal prowess on Blue Murder. He was filling big shoes, considering he had just played alongside David Coverdale, one of rock’s great frontmen. And while the album isn’t a complete departure from Whitesnake’s bluesy, hard-hitting rock, it’s more expansive, both musically and lyrically.

The standout track, “Valley of the Kings,” showcases the epic grandeur Blue Murder was going for. Co-written by Black Sabbath’s Tony Martin, the song combines powerful riffs, intricate solos, and a historical theme that was rare in the pop-metal scene of the time. This track had a “late ’80s Sabbath” feel, blending hard rock with doom-like weight, something that set the band apart from the typical hair metal crowd.

Tracks like “Jelly Roll” and “Out of Love” demonstrate the band’s diversity—moving between blues-infused swagger and heartfelt ballads, all carried by Sykes’ smooth yet powerful vocals and, of course, his signature guitar tone. The hosts also discussed how “Out of Love,” a lesser-known power ballad, was one of those hidden gems deserving far more attention than it ever received.

The Legacy of Blue Murder

Though the album charted respectably (peaking at #69 on the Billboard 200), it didn’t make the impact that Whitesnake’s 1987 album did. Part of the issue was the changing musical landscape. By 1989, the glam metal scene was beginning to saturate, and the introspective rawness of grunge was on the horizon. Blue Murder, with its complex musicianship and Sykes’ ambitious songwriting, may have been too sophisticated for an audience that was more accustomed to quick-hit rock anthems.

But for those in the know, Blue Murder became a cult classic. Its combination of blistering guitar work, thunderous drums, and intricate bass lines made it a musician’s album—a performance record. For fans of technical prowess and intricate song structures, Blue Murder was a band worth rediscovering.

What Could Have Been

Despite the talent and the potential, Blue Murder never achieved the commercial success many expected. Tensions with their label, Geffen Records, didn’t help. Sykes believed Geffen was trying to sabotage the band in hopes he’d rejoin Whitesnake. Whether or not that’s true, it’s clear that Blue Murder didn’t get the marketing push it deserved.

After a follow-up album in 1993 (Nothing But Trouble), Blue Murder faded into the background, overshadowed by the grunge explosion. However, Sykes continued to be a respected figure in the hard rock and metal scenes, even though he never reached the heights of Whitesnake’s success again.

A Call to Revisit a Lost Masterpiece

So why does Blue Murder still resonate with those who know it? It’s a record that transcends the pop-metal limitations of its time. If you’re a fan of Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, or just killer guitar work, this album is well worth revisiting. And for those who missed it the first time around, now’s the perfect time to dive into one of the best-kept secrets of late ’80s metal.

Take a listen, let it transport you back to 1989, and then wonder how this gem flew under the radar.

Songs in this Episode

* Intro - Blue Murder

* 22:17 - Black-Hearted Woman

* 27:14 - Out of Love

* 31:53 - Ptolemy

* 37:59 - Billy

* 39:04 - It's Too Late (demo w/ Ray Gillen on lead vocals)

* Outro - Valley of the Kings

Make Your Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 90s Rock, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Together, let's unearth the treasures of 90s Rock, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →

In this episode, we dive into the unconventional journey of Riot and their 1990 album The Privilege of Power. As the 80s faded, Riot defied metal norms by blending their power metal roots with jazz horns, progressive influences, and politically charged themes. We explore the band’s turbulent history of lineup changes, bad luck, and the struggle for recognition despite their groundbreaking sound. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the band, this episode unpacks the complex layers of an album that stands apart from the mainstream metal of its time. Join us as we dissect the music, the madness, and the legacy Riot left behind.Subscribe

The inspiration for this episode came from an unexpected source - none other than Sebastian Bach of Skid Row fame. During a brief interview with Chip Midnight , Sebastian shared a gem with us, recommending that we explore Malice's debut album. Sebastian is a genuine fan of rock and metal, so we were all excited for a deep dive exploration of a band that played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Skid Row and the 80s metal scene.

The year was 1985. Metal was at a crossroads, evolving from its British heavy metal roots while flirting with the glitz and glam of the Sunset Strip. Bands like Judas Priest and Van Halen were experimenting with synthesizers, and the lines between hard rock and glam metal were becoming increasingly blurred. Enter Malice, a band that straddled these worlds, bringing a raw, aggressive energy that set them apart.

Help make the next episode happen. Join the DMO Union!

Malice formed in Portland, Oregon, a city not typically known for its metal scene. They quickly made a name for themselves with their powerful sound and dynamic performances. By 1982, they were sharing stages with the likes of Metallica and Armored Saint, and their tracks were featured on the influential Metal Massacre compilation alongside future giants of the genre.

Malice's debut album, "In the Beginning," released in August 1985, is a testament to their unique position in the metal world. The album was co-produced by the legendary Michael Wagner, known for his work with Skid Row and Ozzy Osbourne, and Ashley Howe. This collaboration brought a polished yet powerful sound to the record, one that resonated with the intensity of live performances.

The lineup for the album included James Neal on vocals, Mick Zane and Jay Reynolds on lead guitars, Mark Behn on bass, and Clifford Carruthers on drums. The band's chemistry is evident throughout the album, with each member bringing a distinct energy that collectively created a sound both raw and refined.

"In the Beginning" is an album of contrasts, showcasing the band's versatility and struggle for a cohesive identity. Tracks like "Air Attack" and "Gods of Thunder" highlight their power metal prowess, with soaring vocals and relentless double-kick drumming. James Neal's vocal performance draws inevitable comparisons to Rob Halford of Judas Priest, especially on tracks like "Stellar Masters" and "Hellrider."

Yet, the album also dips into more mainstream, glam-rock territory with songs like "Rockin' With You" and "Squeeze It Dry." These tracks, while energetic, lack the same punch as their power metal counterparts, revealing the band's attempt to balance commercial appeal with their heavier roots.

Despite its uneven reception, "In the Beginning" holds a special place in the annals of 80s metal. It served as an inspiration for many, including Sebastian Bach, who cited it as an influential record for Skid Row's early sound. The album's production quality, particularly the clarity and punch of Wagner's work, set a standard for future metal recordings.

Malice may not have achieved the commercial success of their peers, but their impact is undeniable. They were a band ahead of their time, caught between the shifting tides of metal's evolution. Their music continues to resonate with those who seek the raw, unfiltered energy that defined 80s metal.

Songs in this episode

* Open - Stellar Masters

* 19:48 - Air Attack

* 21:19 - Hell Rider

* 25:43 - Rockin With You

* 27:55 - No Haven for the Raven

* 30:34 - Squeeze It Dry (Keep on Rockin)

* 32:35 - Into the Ground

* 34:17 - Stellar Masters

* Close - Godz of Thunder

Make Your Metal Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →

In the late 1980s, when hair metal was all the rage and grunge was just a whisper, King's X dropped "Gretchen Goes to Nebraska." Despite not hitting the mainstream heights of some of their peers, they seriously shook up our latest listener poll with this album. Today's episode of Dig Me Out dives into King's X's unique groove, which carved out a niche that straddled the worlds of their metal and alternative contemporaries.

Dig Me Out is listener-powered. Suggest an album →

We explore how King's X meshed with—and stood out from—the bands they toured with. Imagine sharing the stage with the heavy hitters like Anthrax, AC/DC, and even alt-rockers like Living Colour. King's X managed to hold their own with a sound that mixed deep, soulful harmonies and heavy, intricate riffs. This made them a band that other musicians admired, even if they flew under the radar for the larger public.

“Gretchen Goes to Nebraska," showcased King's X’s knack for blending Rush-like complexity with the emotional rawness that would soon define grunge. Bands like Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains owe a bit of their sound to the trails blazed by King's X, and we're here to tell you exactly how and why.

Recorded with producer Sam Taylor in Houston and released on Megaforce Records, this album is a testament to King's X’s technical chops and thoughtful lyrics. We'll break down tracks like "Over My Head" and "Summerland," discussing how they mix thoughtful musings with rock-solid beats, setting King's X apart from both the glam scene and the emerging grunge movement.

We’ll also ponder why King's X, despite their massive influence and critical nods, never quite became household names. Touring with an eclectic mix, from the theatrical Blue Öyster Cult to metal gods Iron Maiden, showed their range but perhaps left fans puzzled about where exactly to place them in the rock spectrum.

So crank it up and join us on "Dig Me Out 80s Metal" as we dive into the fascinating world of King's X, exploring how they've left an indelible mark on the music scene, beloved by those in the know and just waiting to be rediscovered by new ears.

Songs in this Episode

* Intro - Out of the Silent Planet

* 14:01 - We Were Born to Be Loved - CBS Orchestra

* 28:47 - Over My Head

* 32:36 - You're The Only One - Sneak Preview

* 35:14 - Summerland

* 37:13 - The Difference (In the Garden of St. Anne's On-the-Hill)

* 38:23 - I'll Never Be The Same

* 40:00 - Send a Message

* 40:17 - Black Flag from King's X (1992)

* 43:42 - Out of the Silent Planet

* 48:30 - Over My Head

* 52:26 - I'll Never Be the Same

* 58:06 - This Picture - Jerry Gaskill

* 1:02:00 - Take Me Away - Supershine

* Outro - Pleiades

Your Metal Picks

As we jam through the vast world of 80s metal, it’s your insights and picks that fuel our episodes. Whether it's a hidden gem that slipped through the cracks or a classic that deserves a deep dive, your suggestions keep our playlists fresh and fascinating. By joining the DMO Union on Patreon, you not only help keep our show running smoothly but also get the chance to directly pick the albums we review. Dig into the rich tapestry of 80s metal with us, one record at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →

In the twilight of the 1980s, a year that marked the end of an era and the dawn of another, a band emerged that would encapsulate the raw energy and spirit of rock's golden years. This band was Badlands, a powerhouse ensemble formed by none other than Jake E. Lee, known for his explosive guitar solos with Ozzy Osbourne. As Lee parted ways with the Prince of Darkness, he gathered a group of seasoned musicians: Ray Gillen, whose commanding vocals could rival the legends; Eric Singer, a drummer with a pedigree from Black Sabbath (later KISS); and Greg Chaisson, whose bass lines were as deep as they were intricate.

Highlights of This Episode:

Formation of Badlands: After parting ways with Ozzy Osbourne, Jake E. Lee forms Badlands, recruiting powerhouse vocalist Ray Gillen, dynamic drummer Eric Singer, and bassist Greg Chaisson to create a lineup that promised and delivered a potent blend of talent and passion.

Album Exploration: We take a track-by-track look at the debut album, starting with the electrifying "High Wire," diving into the emotional depths of "Dreams in the Dark," and exploring the anthemic "Winter's Call." Each song represents the band's ability to weave powerful lyrics with robust instrumental performances.

Touring Tales: Hear about Badlands' memorable tours with bands like Tesla and Great White, capturing the transition era from glam metal to the rawer sounds that would define the 90s.

Legacy and Loss: Despite their short-lived journey, the influence of Badlands continues. We discuss the bittersweet legacy of the band, the challenges they faced, and how their music lives on in the hearts of fans.

Rare Recordings: The rarity of Badlands' recordings adds a layer of mystique to their legacy. We explore why their music remains a collector's treasure trove and a delightful discovery for new fans.

Songs in the Episode:

Intro - Dreams in the Dark

34:53 - Street Cry Freedom

39:41 - Dreams in the Dark

41:06 - Jade's Song

52:55 - High Wire

55:27 - Devil's Stomp

58:00 - Seasons

1:03:47 - Dancing on the Edge

1:05:43 - Winter's Call

1:14:19 - Winter's Call

Outro - High Wire

Suggest an album >

Join the mission with the DMO Union at Patreon >

Faster Pussycat emerged from the wild Sunset Strip scene of the 80s, which gave birth to legendary bands such as Quiet Riot, Van Halen, and Ratt. The band introduced a more intense dose of glam and sleaze, which helped them secure a major label deal alongside their peers Guns N’ Roses and L.A. Guns. Taime Downe, a Seattle native, fronted the band, and their debut album showcased a bluesy, pop-glam sound similar to The Rolling Stones and Hanoi Rocks.

This post is public so feel free to share it.

Downe teamed up with Brent Muscat (guitar), Greg Steele (guitar), Eric Stacy (bass), and Mark Michals (drums) to work with producer Ric Browde and craft a classic album that became a staple of the era. The album, released on Elektra Records, includes MTV favorites like “Bathroom Wall” and “Don’t Change That Song,”. As Faster Pussycat embarked on the first tour, they supported a diverse range of artists, from Alice Cooper to David Lee Roth to Motorhead, honing their versatility and undeniable stage presence.

Our deep dive into Faster Pussycat's self-titled debut on Dig Me Out reveals the highs and lows of an album that's as synonymous with the Sunset Strip's glam metal scene as teased hair and leather pants. We explore the tracks that define, delight, and sometimes divide, offering listeners a comprehensive look at an album that continues to resonate.

In our exploration, we highlight the album’s key tracks, noting "Bathroom Wall" and "Don’t Change That Song" for their enduring appeal and MTV staple status, while "Babylon" stands out as an innovative yet ambivalent rap-rock hybrid. Despite its varied reception, the album embodies the rebellious spirit, chaotic nightlife, and unfiltered fun that marked rock 'n' roll's golden era on the Sunset Strip.

Wrapping up the episode, special guest Sebastian Bach drops in to recommend an album for our review, adding another layer of rock authority to our discussion. Join us as we revisit this iconic slice of rock 'n' roll history, celebrating the sleaze, glam, and raw energy that defines an unforgettable decade in music. This isn't just a retrospective; it's a tribute to the timeless allure of rock music and the lasting legacy of Faster Pussycat and its Sunset Strip contemporaries.

Songs in this Episode

* Intro - Babylon

* 10:22 - I Was Made for Loving You (KISS cover)

* 27:50 - Bathroom Wall

* 30:30 - Bottle in Front of Me

* 35:25 - Ship Rolls In

* 36:16 - Smash Alley

* 40:55 - Shooting You Down

* 41:09 - Look What The Cat Dragged In (Poison)

* 43:34 - Cathouse

* 46:00 - No Room for Emotion

* 48:05 - Babylon

* 1:04:20 - Special guest - Sebastian Bach

* Outro - Bathroom Wall

Make Your Metal Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →

This isn't just another record; it's a wild ride through punk's grit and glam rock's glitter, all mashed up in a way only Hanoi Rocks could pull off. Imagine punk's raw energy slamming into glam's flamboyance—that's "Oriental Beat" for you, a genre-bending explosion that set the stage for hair metal to strut its stuff.

Dig Me Out is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Diving into "Oriental Beat," you're tapping into the essence of Hanoi Rocks, featuring Michael Monroe's electrifying vocals, Andy McCoy's masterful guitar riffs, along with the rhythm foundation laid by Sami Yaffa on bass. It's worth noting that while Razzle is often remembered as the band's iconic drummer, it was actually Gyp Casino who pounded the drums on this particular album. His contribution set the beat for the groundbreaking sound that marked a turning point for the band and the broader rock world.

This album is a deep cut spotlighting a band that, let's be honest, should be on every rock aficionado's radar. Hanoi Rocks wasn't playing games; they were laying down tracks that would inspire legends like Guns N' Roses and Motley Crue. And let's talk about the look—those teased hairs and that rock 'n roll swagger weren't just for show. They were pioneers, setting trends that would dominate the scene.

But "Oriental Beat" isn't just about the tunes or the threads; it's the heart of Hanoi Rocks' story, marked by the tragedy of losing their drummer, Razzle. This event didn't just shake the band; it shook the whole rock world, adding a layer of depth and resilience to their legacy. It's this mix of innovation, influence, and sheer perseverance that makes diving into Hanoi Rocks such a compelling journey.

Listening to "Oriental Beat," you're not just hitting play on a record; you're unlocking a piece of rock history that continues to resonate. This album invites us to explore its standout tracks that defy genre norms to the captivating narrative of a band that rocked the 80s scene, enduring as a touchstone for musicians and fans alike.

So, here's to "Oriental Beat," an album that refuses to fade into the background, continuing to spark debates, inspire artists, and thrill new listeners. It's a testament to Hanoi Rocks' undeniable impact on the music world, a legacy built on innovation, style, and a spirit that's as infectious now as it was in the 80s. Hanoi Rocks might just be the best band you've never given a proper listen to, until now.

Songs in the Episode

* Intro - Oriental Beat

* 18:39 - No Law and Order

* 20:41 - Teenangels Outsiders

* 22:21 - Sweet Home Suburbia

* 25:17 - Visitor

* 31:06 - Oriental Beat

* 32:51 - Motorvatin'

* 35:48 - Devil Woman

* 46:10 - MC Baby

* 47:45 - Fallen Star

* Outro - Lightnin' Bar Blues

Make Your Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 90s Rock, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Together, let's unearth the treasures of 90s Rock, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →

Dig into the captivating yet tumultuous story of Salty Dog, a band that carved out a niche in the 80s metal scene with a sound that defied easy categorization. Hailing from the vibrant streets of Los Angeles in the late 1980s, Salty Dog was an act that managed to blend the raw energy of hard rock, the soulful depth of blues, and a hint of the emerging grunge movement into their music. Despite securing a deal with the prestigious Geffen Records and releasing their sole album, Every Dog Has Its Day, in 1990, the band's journey was anything but smooth.

Excited to see this album in the spotlight? Help us keep our podcast ad-free and available for others to discover by supporting us on Patreon!

The tale of Salty Dog is marked by several challenges, from the tumultuous lineup changes to the struggles they faced in the production of their music videos. Perhaps most notably, the band's potential was hampered by the heroin addiction that plagued their frontman, highlighting the personal battles that can deeply affect a band's trajectory. Nonetheless, Every Dog Has Its Day remains a testament to their unique sound, characterized by gritty guitar work, soulful vocals, and a distinct blues influence that set them apart from their contemporaries.

This episode takes a closer look at the diverse influences that shaped Salty Dog's sound. From the legendary riffs of Led Zeppelin to the unmistakable hard rock edge of AC/DC, the band drew inspiration from a wide array of sources. Yet, Salty Dog stood apart from the mainstream 80s metal bands, with vocal styles that ranged from the raspy undertones often associated with hair metal to the high-pitched screeches reminiscent of Guns N' Roses' Axl Rose. The guitar work showcased a broad spectrum, from introspective bluesy slides to the high-energy pinch harmonics often found in metal.

Salty Dog's story is more than just a narrative of music and personal struggles; it's a reflection of the broader challenges and transformations within the metal genre during a pivotal time. Their journey encapsulates the transition from the dominance of metal and hard rock to the rise of grunge in the early 90s, highlighting the volatile nature of the music industry and the personal demons that often accompany fame.

Through Chip’s firsthand experiences and insights, along with an in-depth analysis of Every Dog Has Its Day, we aim to uncover the enduring legacy of Salty Dog. While they may have released just one official album, their story is emblematic of the spirit and turmoil of the 80s metal scene, offering a poignant reminder of the challenges bands face in pursuit of their dreams.

Songs in this Episode

* 00:00 - "Keep Me Down"

* 24:28 - "Come Along"

* 25:22 - "Cat's Got Nine"

* 27:27 - "Where The Sun Don't Shine"

* 30:19 -"Heave Hard (She Comes Easy)

* 35:19 - "Lonesome Fool"

* 35:53 - "Lonesome Fool"

* 38:00 - "Nothing But a Dream"

* 42:23 - "Come Along"

* 50:25 - "Spoonful"

* 56:44 - "Sacrifice Me"

* 1:12:55 - "Come Along"

Make Your Metal Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →

In our latest foray into the electrified terrain of 80s metal, "Dig Me Out" turns the spotlight on an album that encapsulates the era's tumultuous shift from the glitzy heights of hair metal to the gritty dawn of grunge: Bang Tango's "Psycho Cafe." This episode isn't just a deep dive; it's a time machine back to an age where rock music teetered on the edge of a revolution, and Bang Tango danced along that razor's edge with a blend of hard rock, funk, and a hint of goth.

"Psycho Cafe" stands out not just for its musicality but for embodying the late 80s' clash of genres. With tracks like "Someone Like You" and "Attack of Life," we explore how Bang Tango's debut album defied easy categorization, weaving together a sound that was as unique as it was indicative of the era's broader trends. But was this fusion of styles a stroke of genius or a band ahead of its time? We dissect the innovative use of funky rhythms by bassist Kyle Kyle, a move that set them apart but also posed challenges in a landscape dominated by the hair metal aesthetic.

Beyond the music, "Psycho Cafe" is a lens through which we examine the band's rollercoaster history. From the charismatic frontman Joe LeSte to the ever-evolving lineup, Bang Tango's story is as compelling as their music. Yet, their visual and stylistic choices perhaps most vividly capture the late 80s scene, blending rock's raw energy with a touch of glam. But did this aesthetic help or hinder their legacy in an era defined by its visuals as much as its soundtracks?

In sharing our connections to the album, we aim not just to analyze but to connect, bridging the gap between historical context and personal resonance. "Psycho Cafe" isn't just a collection of tracks; for many, it's a soundtrack to memories, a piece of youth locked in the grooves of a vinyl or the magnetic tape of a cassette.

As we wrap up our exploration of "Psycho Cafe," we're left pondering the what-ifs. What if Bang Tango had hit the scene earlier or rode the wave into the alternative-dominated 90s? Would they have found a more receptive audience, or was their unique blend of genres always destined to stand out?

Join us in this episode as we tackle these questions and more, offering our main takes on an album that dared to be different. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the band, we invite you to dive into the discussion. Did Bang Tango capture the spirit of the late 80s, or were they a band out of time? Please share your thoughts and join the conversation as we revisit an era where rock was about breaking the mold and turning up the volume.

Songs In This Episode

Intro - Someone Like You

23:58 - Someone Like You

24:25 - Someone Like You

25:07 - Attack of Life

27:24 - Don't Stop Now

28:13 - Wrap My Wings

29:29 - Do What You're Told

31:03 - Love Injection

36:46 - Shotgun Man

38:21 - Sweet Little Razor

41:18 - Just For You

1:00:56 - Breaking Up a Heart of Stone

Make Your Metal Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the revolutionary album "Trilogy" with a discussion about the guitar virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen and his groundbreaking contribution to the neoclassical metal genre. We explore how his unique blend of classical music influences and unparalleled guitar skills reshaped the metal landscape, setting a new standard for guitarists everywhere.

During the discussion, we get into the creation of "Trilogy," its standout tracks like "You Don't Remember, I'll Never Forget," and the impact of Yngwie's music on the metal genre and beyond. We also cover Yngwie's journey from Sweden to the United States, his rise to fame, and the stories behind the making of "Trilogy," including his infamous MTV-era music videos and the tales surrounding his name and playing style.

This episode is a treasure trove for 80s metal fans, guitar enthusiasts, and those new to Yngwie Malmsteen's music. We offer an in-depth exploration of Yngwie's groundbreaking guitar technique and pivotal role in shaping metal music. We delve into everything from Yngwie's emblematic use of the Fender Stratocaster to the progression of his signature neoclassical metal style.

So, join us for a comprehensive review of one of the 80s metal era's most seminal albums, and embark on a nostalgic journey to a time when MTV's Headbangers' Ball reigned supreme, marking the golden age of music television and the rise of guitar legends.

Songs in this Episode

* Intro - You Don't Remember I'll Never Forget

* 31:28 - Queen in Love

* 32:55 - Crying

* 35:29 - You Don't Remember I'll Never Forget

* 36:36 - Fire 46:53 - Magic Mirror

* 49:13 - Trilogy Suite Op:5

* 1:04:14 - Carry On My Wayward Son

* Outro - Trilogy Suite Op:5

Make Your Metal Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →