Retro Review: Billy Idol - Rebel Yell

Rebel Yell is an album that was released by British musician Billy Idol in 1983. The album was a commercial success, reaching number 6 on the US Billboard 200, and it is considered by many to be one of the best rock albums of the 1980s.

The album opens with the title track, "Rebel Yell", which is a high-energy rock anthem featuring a catchy guitar riff and Idol's trademark snarling vocals. The song is about living life to the fullest and not caring what anyone else thinks, which was a common theme in many of Idol's songs.

Another standout track on the album is "Eyes Without a Face", which was a major hit for Idol. The song has a much more subdued sound than "Rebel Yell", with a haunting melody and lyrics about heartbreak and loss. The song's accompanying music video, which features a masked woman and a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere, is still considered to be one of the most iconic music videos of the 1980s.

Other noteworthy songs on the album include "Flesh for Fantasy", an upbeat rock song that features a playful guitar riff and sexually suggestive lyrics, and "Catch My Fall", a mid-tempo ballad that showcases Idol's softer side.

One of the things that makes Rebel Yell such a great album is its diversity. The album contains a mix of high-energy rockers, introspective ballads, and everything in between. Throughout the album, Idol's vocals are always strong, and the music is always energetic and engaging.

Overall, Rebel Yell is a classic album that has stood the test of time. Whether you're a longtime Billy Idol fan or just discovering his music for the first time, this album is definitely worth a listen.

Chartbuster: Cruel Summer - Bananarama

“Cruel Summer" is a song by the English female pop group Bananarama. Released in 1983, the song became a hit both in the UK and the US, and has since been covered by many other artists. The catchy melody, moody yet upbeat lyrics, and the group's signature harmonies all contributed to the song's success.

The song was initially released as a stand-alone single, but it later appeared on the US release of the group's second album, "Bananarama." The lyrics of the song deal with the feeling of isolation and loneliness that can come with the summer months. The song's melancholic tone, combined with the upbeat pop production, creates a unique and catchy sound that has been popular for over 30 years.

One of the unique things about "Cruel Summer" is the way it blends different musical influences. The group was heavily influenced by American girl-groups of the 1960s, but they also incorporated elements of New Wave, punk and synth-pop. The result was a song that was both infectious and emotionally raw.

Over the years, the song has been covered by many other artists, including Ace of Base and Belinda Carlisle. It has also been used in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its place as a pop classic. Recently, the song was used as the inspiration for a new musical of the same name, which premiered in London in August 2021.

“Cruel Summer" is a timeless pop classic that has stood the test of time for over 30 years. It's a song that speaks to the human experience of feeling alone or disconnected, and yet retains a sense of joy and hope. Its catchy melody, haunting harmonies, and unique blend of musical influences have made it an enduring favorite among fans of pop music around the world.

Chartbuster: Overkill - Men at Work

"Overkill" was released in 1983 and became a commercial and critical success for the Australian band Men at Work.

"Overkill" is a song that deals with themes of loneliness and the anxiety that comes with it. The lyrics describe the feeling of being overwhelmed by one's own thoughts and the desire for escape. The song's opening lines set the tone for this introspective mindset: "I can't get to sleep, I think about the implications / Of diving in too deep, and possibly the complications".

The song's memorable chorus conveys the idea that the narrator's worries and concerns have become too much for him to handle. The chorus also features a distinctive saxophone riff that adds to the song's melancholic tone.

Musically, "Overkill" is a perfect showcase for Men at Work's unique blend of pop, rock, and reggae influences. The band's signature sound includes catchy rhythms, bright guitar melodies, and the prominent use of saxophone. "Overkill" also highlights the vocal talents of lead singer Colin Hay, whose distinctive voice adds emotion and depth to the lyrics.

The song's music video further emphasizes the song's themes of isolation and introspection. The video features footage of Hay wandering through a deserted city at night, accompanied by a lone saxophonist. The imagery creates a mood of loneliness and melancholy that perfectly complements the song's themes.

"Overkill" remains a beloved classic and a fan favorite for many Men at Work fans. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes and the band's musicianship. If you have not yet heard this iconic song, I highly recommend you add it to your playlist and give it a listen. 

Music on Film: Valley Girl

The movie "Valley Girl" is known not only for its storyline but also for its fantastic soundtrack, which perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the movie's time and place. Released in 1983, the film tells the story of California teen Julie and her relationship with a punk rock musician named Randy.

The soundtrack features a diverse mix of new wave and punk rock music that was popular during the early 80s. The album includes hits from well-known artists such as The Plimsouls, The Payolas, and Modern English, as well as lesser-known bands like Josie Cotton and Men at Work.

One of the most iconic songs from the soundtrack is the Plimsouls' "A Million Miles Away," which features prominently in the movie's plot. The upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riff of the song perfectly capture the feeling of teenage rebellion and the thrill of young love.

Another standout track is Modern English's "I Melt with You," which has become a classic of the era. The song's lush harmonies and romantic lyrics perfectly capture the movie's themes of young love and the angst of growing up.

Josie Cotton's "Johnny, Are You Queer?" is another memorable track from the album, with its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics. The song was controversial at the time due to its subject matter but has since become a beloved classic.

Overall, the "Valley Girl" soundtrack is a fantastic representation of the music of the early 80s. It captures the energy and spirit of the era and has become a cult classic in its own right. For fans of 80s music, it's definitely an album worth exploring.