Canadian hard rock from 1980, this band centred around guitarist, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist Steve Madden, forever prolific and very talented too.

The music is very solid hard rock, and the guitar work is superb; the problem here is the vocals. Madden wrote them for his own voice - always a problem when you give them to another vocalist. Here, Steve's girlfriend Jan Melanson does her best, and at times there is a Rock Goddess feel, but something I can't put my finger on doesn't work. Also the effects (including an echo) make the vocals sound as blurred as they are disjointed.

"Ready For Action" stands out, with a great riff and rhythm, despite the clichéd lyrics.

"Heartache Rock'n'Roll" has a good melody, but does nod at what was to become 80's big haired AOR, helped by some nicely layered keyboards.

Largely excellently, in a very ordinary way. Bonus cuts and essay make for a good package though.

***

Review by Joe Geesin