The Red Rocker has had a largely successful solo career, but is perhaps best known for his work with Montrose and Van Halen. In the mid 70s he signed to Capitol and produced a string of hit albums.

This 1979 solo album saw Sammy at his solo best, being at the more commercial melodic side of firebrand US hard rock a la Ted Nugent. “Trans Am” is guitar fuelled rock at its best, and “Feels Like Love” is chunky rock'n'roll. On the balance, “Child To Man” definitely has its Boston moments (guests Brad Delp, Barry Goudreau and Sib Hashin on the album aid this), and “Plain Jane” is more melodic with a nice mix of piano and guitar. A metal edge to The Eagles? That's all there in “Never Say Die” too. “This Planet's On Fire” could be Hagar's own take on “Radar Love”, with some additional shred to boost.

The feel here is very typically American, and completely oblivious to the punk and new wave movements coming out of the UK at the time.

The twin guitar works well, with the lead provided by Gary Phil.

From shred to melodic, this is one of Hagar's better efforts and well presented here with extensive notes and 2 bonus cuts from a 1979 non album single to boost.

****

Review by Joe Geesin

www.joegeesin.com