Originally called The Sharks, the band were formed in ’79 and actually released an album under this name. A name change occurred in ’85 to Shark Island, and they became the house band at Gazzari’s on the strip. The band started to get a huge buzz going as a great live act, and with frontman Richard Black, everyone thought they were going to be the next big thing. It wasn’t until the recording of this album and signing with Epic, that everyone else started to take notice. Unfortunately, due to the changing musical climate, the band would disappear until 2006.
Opening track, Paris Calling, is one of the best things the band did in their short existence. It has a killer riff, chorus, and melody. Next track, Shake For Me, is a classic Friday night anthem to shake those blues away. Somebody’s Falling again has a great riff (courtesy of Spencer Sercombe), and a great melody – these guys sure knew how to write a tune. Bad For Each Other is the usual record company power ballad requirement. Side 1 closes out with Passion To Ashes, which has a great riff and great guitar tone with a sleazy vocal from Black.
Over to Side 2 and opener Spellbound has a stock hair metal riff and groove with a sing-a-long chorus. Get Some Strange follows and starts with a really nice riff and groove, but it’s the main hook, chorus, and the short ripping solo that get all the praise here. Superb song! Why Should I Believe is ballad number two, and I’ve just realized that Richard Black’s vocals remind me of Jim Morrison – just when he sings a certain why. The song redeems itself with a great solo. Ready Or Not is another one of those big hair rock anthems that every band used to knock out back in the day. The album closes out with The Chain, and is a cover of the Fleetwood Mac classic. Still a really enjoyable record.
9/10 from The Grooveman.
