After the initial demise of Twisted Sister, Dee Snider put together a short lived project called Desperado. When they folded, Widowmaker was formed, which was basically Desperado but with Al Pitrelli on guitar.

I know TS were super popular, especially in the US, but this album (their second and final release) was the highlight of Snider’s career. Much heavier and darker material and taking influences from what was around at the time. Long Gone for instance could have been any Seattle band at the time, but way better. Protect And Serve reminds me of Pantera with that double kick roll and the heavy guitar groove. Ready To Roll is my favourite tune on the album and maybe the best thing Snider has done. The initial riff and groove at the intro messes with your brain as the head wants to follow the groove but your body follows the riff. Great stuff! The only song you could compare to TS would be The Iron Road with its straight metal riff, double kick groove, and sing along title line.

I guess the public didn’t take to the band as after this they were done. Shame, as this is a good effort.

8.5/10 from The Grooveman.