For a band that were at the top of the hard rockin’ tree, they haven’t released that many albums. There are six in total if you’re counting, of which this was album number two. Now, I understand how Mr. Bach can be a somewhat controversial character and he seemingly knows how to push all the buttons of band members in Skid Row, but they are a killer band with him at the front. Taking nothing away from Eric Gronwall as he his a superb talent, but somethings are just meant to be.
This is a close second for me in the favourite album stakes, as I really love Subhuman Race and that harder edge. Although, the opening 1-2 punch of Monkey Business and Slave To The Grind is as good as it gets, both killer tracks that just shake your tree with max riffage and groove. Slave is definitely my favourite track. The Threat keeps the heavy riffing going and Bach’s vocals are superb. It’s heavy ballad time next with Quicksand Jesus, and Seb’s vocals are off the chart, plus that solo is monster. A heavy riff and groove to Psycho Love and the heaviness between this and the first album is here for all to see. Side 1 closes out with Get The F… Out. A punked up, rocked out, sleaze fest.
Side 2 rips in with Livin’ On A Chain Gang. A cool, choppy riff with a nice swing to the groove and a cool gang style hook and chorus. Creepshow follows and I love the opening riff and groove with that hint of funk. The middle eight is super cool and grooves to the max. It’s ballad number two next with In A Darkened Room, and you have to be blown away with the range and power of Bach’s vocals. That punky, sleazy vibe is back for Riot Act and sometimes music should do no more than put a smile on your face. Mudkicker follows with a nice fat riff and a slow heavy groove. The album closes out with Wasted Time. Going out on a power ballad is never my favourite thing as I’m always in favour of going out with a BANG.
The album does tail off slightly as Side 1 is loaded with the monster tunes but it still gets…
9/10 from The Grooveman.
