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Stray Cats "Blast Off" (Hepcat)
Three years after their initial run ended, the Stray Cats regathered
for 1986's Rock Therapy. Three years after that they regrouped again
for 1989's Blast Off, their final album for EMI. Rock Therapy was a
tight, back-to-basics from a three-piece that couldn't seem to
relocate its inspiration, Blast Off is a bit looser but ultimately
more exciting. The covers are kept to one with a burning rendition of
Eddie Bond's rockabilly classic "Slip, Slip, Slippin' In," and in
addition to new tunes from all three band members, there's a pair of
songs from Los Angeles pop writers Bobby and Larson Paine. The
latter's "Gina," rolls out a western rhythm that would have fit nicely
with Rank and File, "Everybody Needs Rock 'n' Roll" shows how much
excitement the band could still generate with straight ahead
rockabilly, and "Gene and Eddie" spends its borrowed materials to good
effect.
Together with their original producer, Dave Edmunds, the band staked
out a more savage sound. The drums pound less politely, and Setzer
guitar is like a sharp blade. The excitement of their early years,
missing-in-action on 1983's Rock Therapy, was back. Songs like
"Rockabilly Rules,' "Bring It Back Again," and "Rockabilly World" may
be a bit on-the-nose with their nostalgia, but the rhythms are
infectious and Setzer sings with conviction. The album closes with,
"Nine Lives" providing Setzer a great chance to croon. This is
surprising turn after the uninspired product of their first reunion,
and bode well for their continued solo and collective artistry. [(c)2008
redtunictroll at hotmail dot com] |
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