Y&T Reissues
Majestic (2005)
When it comes to the original MTV generation of big haired metal bands, Y&T (originally Yesterday And Today) were one of the better and underrated. Largely forgotten, these three superb mid 80s albums are welcome to fans in the know and thoroughly enjoyable.
In We Rock We Trust (Majestic MAJCD052) is clichéd for sure, but that’s half the fun factor of this music.
Opener Rock’n’Roll’s Gonna Save The World is a stance that many have, and with it’s choruses and solos as big as the hair, it epitomises the music. Continuing with Life Life Life there’s also an element of Def Leppard, with Tom Allom doing a fine job on the superb production. (***)
It’s perhaps unfair to label this lot as hair metal because they were so much better and heavier than the others. Especially with Open Fire (Majestic MAJCD053) and the opening title track. Recorded live in concert, it’s blistering, with vocalist/guitarist Dave Meniketti on fire.
With some new tracks on the album, the whole set is a corker. Go For The Throat is more typical For a live album it’s mixed well, with the crowd set at the right level too for a change. (****)
Down For The Count Majestic MAJCD054 keeps the momentum going, and is slightly more solid. The sound is bolstered by several guest keyboard players, including Dio’s Claude Schnell.
There some AOR leanings, but still a thoroughly enjoyable set. (***)
No sleevenotes, but the original albums are reproduced exactly (if a little small to read), but if you’re remotely a fan, this is simply the sort of music you enjoy playing.
Review by Joe Geesin
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