Candy-O

In the late seventies, The Cars came onto the rock and roll scene out of Boston. The band released their self-titled album in 1978, and listeners quickly learned that it was the perfect cross between new wave and rock and roll. In the following year, 1979, the band recorded and released the follow-up to their debut. How does the band's sophomore effort, Candy-O, measure up? Read on for my review.

This album follows stylings similar to the band's first album, but it adds in just enough new elements to keep things fresh. The result is another five-star album. Several of the band's biggest hits came from this album - not as many as came from the debut, but a decent number nonetheless. The catchy pop-friendly numbers Let's Go and It's All I Can Do can be found here. And, of course, one of the joys of this album, as opposed to any other Cars album, is that you get to explore a darker, more hard rock-oriented side to the band. The title track achieved some popularity, and why not? Its rock stylings are unparalleled. And who could forget the other track of these stylings, Dangerous Type? This track features some of the band's finest lyrics, and the guitar playing is nothing short of excellent. And, of course, it doesn't stop with the hits. Through and through, this managed to be an excellent album. It covers more musical ground than the group's 1978 debut did. And, in my opinion, the band could not have ended the seventies on a higher note.

This was The Cars' second album, but it was also their last great one. Following this album, the band began to ditch their rock and roll roots and go for a sound that was all pop and no rock (this is demonstrated beautifully in their eighties hit, Shake It Up.) Candy-O stands as one of only two of the band's true masterpieces. If you're a fan of classic rock, do not hesitate to add this album to your collection. And don't forget the debut!