For the first half of the 1980's American singer Billy Squier was at the top of the rock tree. With multi-platinum selling singles and albums and a massive following, it is from this period that the two re-mastered and re-released albums 'Emotions In Motion' and 'Signs Of Life' hail from.

'Emotions In Motion' was originally released in 1982 and featured the hits ''Everybody Wants You', 'Learn How To Live', 'Keep Me Satisfied' and 'She's A Runner', as well as highlights including the title track, 'It Keeps You Rockin'' and 'Listen To Your Heartbeat'. Squiers vocals have touches of Plant, Daltrey and Mercury to them and it is clear to see that another generation of rock singers would, in turn, be inspired by Squier himself.

Moving forward to 1984 and we see the release of 'Signs of Life', produced by then legendary producer Jim Steinman and featuring Queens Bryan May on the track '(Another) 1984'. The album was another massive success and included the hit singles 'Rock Me Tonite', 'All Night Long' and 'Eye On You, along side other highlights such as 'Take A Look Behind Ya' and 'Can't Get Next To You'.

As the decade came to a close Squier's popularity was not what it once was and a new generation of rock stars were embracing the airwaves.

This 2 CD set is a great reminder of what a great artist Billy Squier was.

****

Review by Nikk Gunns