Out of the three original albums, if I’m pushed, I would say this is my favourite as the songs are more consistent – although it’s a hard decision as I love the first one as well. In true Ronnie fashion, he had doubts about the band and would call it a day with them after the next record – just like he did with Montrose. A shame, as I thought the band were flying.
This album is all about Ronnie and vocalist Dave Pattison. It is noticeable that the keyboards are featuring more, and would be very prominent indeed on the next record. The first two tracks are stone cold classics: Mean Streak and Four Horseman rock hard with great riffs, killer vocals, and some really tasty guitar. Dirty City is next and I think it was released as a single – its the most commercial track so far. With a nice atmospheric intro it leads into a very 80’s keyboard main riff mirrored by the guitar. Close out track to Side 1 is Voyager, which has a very laid back groove, awesome melody, and superb vocals from Davey.
Keyboards again start off Side 2 with the intro to Something In The Air, which is a cover of the Thunderclap Newman tune – its a great take on the original. Cat On A Leash is an awesome tune with Ronnie dropping fills in every spare gap he can. This track is definitely all about Ronnie, and the middle section with the dropped down groove is just sublime. Skin And Bone is a slower paced track with a heavy riff and Davey sings is ass off. Mayday is the last track and closes out the record. Its the fastest song on the album, and once again, it’s the Davey and Ronnie show. A great album and would sit well in any rocker’s collection.
9/10 from The Grooveman.
