by AC/DC – Back in Black (1980)
[rating:4]
Back in Black is probably AC/DC’s best album. It is hard rock at its best. I remember being introduced to this album in junior high school at the age of 15 or so. But I digress; this album was instrumental in bringing hard rock/heavy metal to the mainstream. With albums like Number of the Beast, and Paranoid, Back in Black became an icon for teenage rebellion. With songs like “Hell’s Bells,” “You Shook Me All Night Long” and “Back in Black” this album became all the rage for pissed off teens.
Negatively, this album has too many forgetful or stupid songs and simple lyrics to receive five stars. These songs would include “Let Me Put My Love into You”, “What Do You Do for Money Honey” and “Givin’ the Dog a Bone”. But for the significance of this album and the great songs included, it is a must buy for a complete hard rock music library.
Van Halen – 1984 (1984)
[rating:5]
One of the few bands I enjoyed back in the ’80s, Van Halen were liked by most of my peers as it had some monster rock hits. If you are looking for introspection, mind expanding lyrics, or anything else intellectually or emotionally stimulating, then this band and this album is not what you’re looking for. This album is the ultimate party album; just fun and upbeat. Van Halen was always about good times and partying. This is their best album and has some of the best VH tunes, “Panama,” “Jump” and my favourite “Hot for Teacher.”
So, if you want a good time party album then this is one of the best. If you want something meatier, then go get some Van Morrison and leave this alone.
Mötley Crüe – Dr. Feelgood (1989)
[rating:3.5]
This or Shout at the Devil is the best that the Crüe has to offer. Shout at the Devil was more raw. This album is all slicked up and ready for radio. Bob Rock produced which added something that the Crüe was missing, namely “production.” There are a bunch of little additions here and there that you didn’t see much before this album. Police sirens et al compliment this release. Most of the songs are forgetful, except “Kickstart My Heart” which is speed music at it’s finest.
Overall this is probably the best band from the glam rock days of the ’80s and this is probably the best album to represent it; although that is not saying much.
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