W.A.S.P. - Inside the Electric Circus
On the band's third outing, no significant changes have been made. This is more
of the same W.A.S.P. material, as the boys continue to rock out in a (heavier) Kiss/Alice
Cooper-type fashion. The maturity level has improved a bit, but the
musicianship/songwriting's not quite there yet. Blackie's vocals are still fresh and
crisp, as they are the main ingredient in the W.A.S.P. formula. Guitarist Chris Holmes
provides a few catchy hooks to make this album interesting: the riffs are a little
grittier and pushed further back in the mix, allowing the vocals room to breathe.
"The Big Welcome/Inside the Electric Circus" starts off with a spoken
carnival intro (by Lawless) that warns the listener of the strange and unusual things
you'll find in the Electric Circus, followed by the swift title track. "9.5.
Nasty" is a good cut, with throaty, soaring vocals. "Restless Gypsy"
is a top highligh, containing crisp, emotional lyrics.. "I Don't Need No Doctor"
and "Easy Living" are competently played covers. "Mantronic"
gets my pick for best axe work. Other tracks of note include the sassy "King of
Sodom and Gomorrah" and the blistering, riff rolling "The Rock Rolls On."
All in all, a more mature release, as W.A.S.P. continue to get slightly better with time.
The next few releases to come are some of the band's best. If you enjoyed W.A.S.P.
or The Last Command, chances are you won't be disappointed with
this album.
Tracks
1. The Big Welcome
7. I'm Alive
2. Inside the Electric Circus
8. Easy Living
3. I Don't Need No Doctor
9. Sweet Cheetah
4. 9.5. Nasty
10. Mantronic
5. Restless Gypsy
11. King of Sodom and Gomorrah
6. Shoot from the Hip
12. The Rock Rolls On
Reviewed by Sam |
