Young, Wild & Free

There is one reason and one reason only that I bought this album on cassette for the first time back in '89.

There is only one reason why I own it on CD today.

There is only one reason why I still listen to it, and enjoy it.

Folks, it's because Gerald McGhee screams his a** off. Seriously. I don't know if I have ever heard a more satisfying heavy metal scream on any album anywhere. This is it. This is the pinacle of Gerald's vocal prowess, and all you can do is stand back and wait for the next scream. It's like chocolate cake. You just can't get enough.

Song-wise, this runs the gamut from lite-rock ballads ("Can't Wait For The Night") to mid-tempo hit singles ("We Came To Rock") to OTT songs reminicent of mid-80's Judas Priest ("The Rock 'n' Roll Kid"). Nothing overly unique or special. Production is very 80's but not overwhelmingly so, even on the gang vocals. Shame about those pants on the front cover. Greg Fraser should be issued a citation for wearing them boots after labour day.

Highlights are many. Lowlights are few. "Can't Wait For The Night" is too soft and boring, and the transition between "Save Me" and "Nobody's Hero" is awkward and jarring. Most of these songs are above average but the best are the OTT ones with the hellbent screams. The best screams can be found on "We Came To Rock", "The Rock 'n' Roll Kid" (play that to scare away any wifes or girlfriends in the vicinity) and "Young Wild & Free".

And when you're done, pick up Take A Deep Breath. The screams are gone but the songwriting and recording improved 100 fold.

4 stars. We Came To Rock!

This disc was played everyweekend at our parties, so much so it was almost a ritual. Not quite as good as Love Machine but still an awesome disc.

A truly hard rocking Canadian Band. They play excellent ballads also. I'm still looking for Take a Deep Breath, and having NO luck. I wish they were still around.