London are probably more well known for who has played with them than the music they put out. The ex members list reads like a who’s who of the LA glam scene, Nikki Sixx, Blacky Lawless, Izzy Stradlin, Slash, and Lizzie Grey to name just a few. The band have been around since ’78 but their debut wasn’t released until ’85 when most of the above names were doing bigger and better things.
First song Dirty City sets things up for the rest of the album with a full on glam anthem. The production was done by the band themselves and at times the treble is too much, it takes away from the overall vibe. Non Stop Rock is just more of the same fun party rock. Werewolves Of London tries to be a little different with a more adventurous subject matter and vibe. It’s Rock & Roll is straight out of the New York Dolls handbook, a total sleaze fest. Stand Back closes out Side 1, an uptempo sleaze stomper with Lizzie Grey’s guitar way up in the mix.
No Tell Motel opens up Side 2 and, if I’m pushed, its my favourite track on the album as I really like the riff. Party In Hollywood follows and is a close second in the favourite track department with a really cool riff and groove. Masters Of The Airwaves has a really cool opening, and the guitar sound is huge. The last track Radio Stars is ironically the most commercial sounding track on the album, it should have opened the record. Producers don’t only get the best sounding record they can, but they help with the arrangements and that’s what this album is crying out for. I’m sure there is a great record hiding in there somewhere.
7.5/10 from The Grooveman.
