Before glam exploded and metal ruled MTV, one album tried to bridge the shred-heavy brilliance of Europe with the big-hook ambitions of American rock radio—only to be lost in the chaos of lineup changes and flashing lights. Literally.

In this episode, we rediscover Assault Attack by the Michael Schenker Group—a cult classic released in 1982 that had everything going for it: a legendary guitarist, a powerhouse vocalist, and production by Martin Birch. So why didn’t it break through?

We dig into the story behind the album’s creation, from the fallout after One Night at Budokan to the last-minute firing of Graham Bonnet before the band could tour. Along the way, we explore what makes Assault Attack stand out musically—from Schenker’s melodic riffing to the underrated grooves laid down by bassist Chris Glen and drummer Ted McKenna.

This episode is for fans of underappreciated hard rock, for those who love when bands sound like bands (not just guitar showcases), and for anyone who’s ever found a hidden gem in the cassette bin and wondered how it got there. If you’re into Rainbow, UFO, or even Iron Maiden’s deeper cuts, this one’s got something for you.

Episode Highlights

• 0:00 – [Intro: “Assault Attack”] – The mystery of a great album no one saw live• 5:12 – [Band History] – How MSG went from Budokan to Bonnet• 12:45 – [Album Overview] – Birch’s production magic and the shift in sound• 21:30 – [“Desert Song”] – A haunting riff and vocal synergy• 29:00 – [“Broken Promises”] – The secret star: Chris Glen’s bass lines• 34:20 – [“Dancer”] – Big hooks, goofy lyrics, and Bonnet’s vocal drama• 42:00 – [Legacy & What-Ifs] – What could’ve been with Coverdale or a proper tour• 48:10 – [Community Pick] – How one vote brought this album into the spotlight

Don’t Miss Out

Dig deeper into forgotten albums and the stories that shaped them. Listen to the full episode now, and if you want to have a say in what we cover next:

👉 Subscribe at digmeoutpodcast.com👉 Join the Union and vote on future picks at dmounion.com

High and Dry: Def Leppard’s Gateway from NWOBHM to Arena Rock Kings

Before Hysteria took over MTV and Pyromania lit up the charts, Def Leppard were loud, raw, and hungry. Their 1981 album, High and Dry, was the crucial turning point—bridging the grit of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) with the polished, hook-laden sound that would dominate ‘80s rock radio. But does it get the recognition it deserves?

This week, we go deep into Def Leppard’s unsung classic—breaking down the ferocious dual-guitar attack, the emergence of the power ballad, and why this album is the missing link between underground metal and stadium rock dominance.

If you love AC/DC, Scorpions, Van Halen, or Judas Priest, this episode is for you.

🔥 Episode Highlights:

0:00 – “Lady Strange” (Intro) – Setting the stage: High and Dry as the transition between NWOBHM and mainstream rock

5:12 – The sound of young, hungry Def Leppard – Raw energy, Mutt Lange’s production, and how the band sharpened their hooks

12:45 – Pete Willis & Steve Clark: The ultimate riff duo? – How their partnership shaped High and Dry’saggressive yet melodic sound

18:49 – “You Got Me Running” – The underrated gem hiding in High and Dry’s deep cuts

21:02 – “Switch 625” – Steve Clark’s defining instrumental moment and its lasting impact on rock guitarists

23:44 – “On Through the Night” – The overlooked link between Def Leppard’s NWOBHM roots and their stadium-filling ambitions

28:12 – “Bringing on the Heartbreak” – The song that rewrote the rules of hard rock ballads (and set the stage for ‘80s power ballads)

29:58 – “High ‘N’ Dry (Saturday Night)” – Def Leppard’s most unapologetic party anthem—was this their Highway to Hell moment?

32:17 – “Bringing on the Heartbreak” (Mariah Carey Cover) – From Sheffield to pop royalty: How this song found an unexpected second life

35:10 – The High and Dry legacy – Where does this album rank among Def Leppard’s best? Did it get overshadowed by Pyromania and Hysteria?

Outro – “Let It Go” – Closing thoughts: Why this album still deserves a front-row seat in hard rock history

🔊 Join the Discussion & Support the Podcast!

💬 What’s your take on High and Dry? Underrated classic or just a stepping stone? Let us know in the comments!

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From Grand Prix to McAuley Schenker Group (MSG), Survivor, and the hard-hitting supergroup Black Swan, Robin McAuley has spent decades proving why he’s one of the most underrated vocalists in rock. Now, at 72 years old, he’s not slowing down—in fact, he’s getting heavier.

In this episode, we sit down with Robin to discuss his brand-new solo album Soulbound (out Feb 28), his surprise detour into graphic design, and the odds of a Black Swan tour finally happening. We also take a deep dive into his MSG years, the pressure to write radio hits, and what it was like to have The Black Crowes open for him in 1990—before they blew up.

If you’re a fan of Foreigner, Scorpions, Whitesnake, or classic hard rock with killer vocals, this episode is for you.

🔥 Episode Highlights:

0:00 – Intro: “Gimme Your Love”

5:12 – Supergroup that works? – How Black Swan became more than just a label project.

9:51 – “Love Is Not a Game”

10:53 – Soulbound and the sound of 2024 – Why Robin’s newest album is his heaviest yet.

18:50 – The truth about vocal longevity – Robin’s strict regimen that keeps his voice in top shape.

23:05 – That Perfect Timing album cover… – Why Robin never wanted MSG’s name change.

29:18 – The Black Crowes opened for MSG?! – Robin’s reaction when he saw their future coming.

34:26 – The MSG Unplugged Tour – The risk of going acoustic in the early ‘90s.

39:20 – Will Black Swan ever tour? – Reb Beach’s future might hold the answer.

1:05:27 – “Soulbound” – The title track from Robin’s new solo album.

1:10:00 – Outro: “Anytime” – Closing the show with MSG’s biggest hit.

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Our panel of metal experts to break down 1985—the year before metal's big explosion. Was it a golden age or just a transition? Our hosts Tim and Jason are joined by special guests Paul Lefevre (Bang Your Head Substack) and Tom Beaujour (Nothing But a Good Time, Axe Lords Podcast) to explore the records that still rip, the ones that fizzled, and the underground sounds that changed metal forever.

💥 What made 1985 a turning point?💥 Which albums stood the test of time—and which ones haven’t?💥 Why did thrash explode while some hair metal flopped?💥 Who really owned 1985—Dokken, Anthrax, or W.A.S.P.?

🚨 Subscribe & Support the Podcast 🚨🔥 Join the Dig Me Out Union and help shape future episodes → digmeoutpodcast.com

🎧 Episode Highlights & Timestamps

[00:00] 🎙 Intro & Setting the Stage

[05:00] 🤘 Meet the Guests

[10:30] ⚡ What Made 1985 a Weird Metal Year?

[15:45] 🔥 Albums That Stood the Test of Time

[30:20] 💀 The Albums That Haven’t Aged Well

[45:10] 🎭 The Strange Divide: Hair Metal vs. Thrash

[57:30] 🏴‍☠️ The Underground Awakens

[1:05:00] 🤯 Did 1985 Kill Classic Metal?

[1:15:00] 🤔 Final Picks: What Album Defines 1985?

[1:30:00] 🔗 Where to Find Our Guests & Closing Thoughts

📌 Follow Our Guests & Check Out Their Work

Paul Lefevre

📖 Bang Your Head (Metal Writing) → bangyourhead.substack.com🎮 Go to 10 Retro (Gaming & Tech Nostalgia) → go-to-10-retro.com

Tom Beaujour

📚 Pre-Order Lollapalooza: 1991-1997 → Buy Here🎸 Axelords Podcast (Guitars & Rock Culture) → YouTube Channel🌎 More from Tom → TomBeaujour.com

Ready to uncover a hidden treasure of late 80s metal? In this episode, we take a deep dive into Vain's debut album No Respect—an overlooked gem from the glam metal scene’s final years. Hear how the San Francisco band crafted a raw, dark take on glam with thrash and punk influences, setting them apart from the Sunset Strip's neon excess. We’ll explore the album’s dynamic guitar work, Davey Vain’s emotionally charged vocals, and the industry challenges that kept them under the radar. Discover why No Respect still holds up decades later. Don’t miss it—listen now, share with a friend, and subscribe for more stories from rock’s hidden history.

In this special crossover episode, we’re spotlighting Buffalo’s 1973 Volcanic Rock—a raw, proto-metal gem that helped shape the sound of 80s Metal and 90s Rock. With primal riffs and fearless energy, Buffalo laid the groundwork for the heaviness embraced by bands like Metallica and Soundgarden.

Picture it: the airwaves dominated by Dark Side of the Moon, Zeppelin’s Houses of the Holy, and Sabbath’s Sabbath Bloody Sabbath. Rock was entering its teenage years, shedding its innocence for something darker, more primal. Halfway around the world, Australia was a raw, untamed frontier where danger lurked in every shadow. Venomous creatures, desolate outback stretches, and a wild, unrelenting spirit shaped the people and their art. It was here, in this harsh and unpredictable landscape, that Buffalo unleashed their sophomore album, Volcanic Rock, on Vertigo Records. Like the searing sun, it scorched a path for heavy music, standing defiantly alongside its better-known contemporaries.

Buffalo was no Zeppelin or Sabbath knockoff. This Brisbane-to-Sydney transplant created their own blend of bluesy grit and proto-metal menace. Formed initially as “Head,” their pivot to Buffalo was guided by a manager who believed that bands starting with “B” (Beatles, Beach Boys) were bound for success. A dart on a map landed on Buffalo, and thus began a name and sound etched in volcanic fury.

Heavy as Hell, Raw as the Outback

Volcanic Rock lived up to its name—primitive, thunderous, and unpredictable. With Dave Tice’s raw vocal delivery leading the charge, and guitarist John Baxter’s primal riffage painting sonic landscapes, the album combined blues-rock roots with a proto-doom intensity that felt otherworldly. Songs like “Freedom” deliver nine-minute odysseys, meandering through psychedelic jam territory before crashing back into riff-laden crescendos.

Yet, the record wasn’t just music—it was spectacle. Its controversial cover art—a volcano shaped like a female torso spewing lava—reflected the wild creativity and raw edge of the band’s ethos. It was shocking then and remains iconic now, an image as bold as the sound within.

Misfits in a Golden Age

Despite their innovative sound, Buffalo never quite broke through. Opening for heavyweights like Black Sabbath and Rainbow, they faced the mischief of tour mates like Ritchie Blackmore, who infamously sabotaged their set. Still, they soldiered on, creating an album that influenced generations of grunge, stoner rock, and doom metal—long before the labels existed.

But Buffalo’s story is also one of commercial failure and creative frustration. Pushed by their label to pivot toward radio-friendly fare, they resisted, choosing instead to blaze their own trail. By the time their final album, Average Rock ’n’ Roller, hit shelves in 1977, the band was running on fumes. Yet, Volcanic Rock remains their defining statement, a timeless blueprint for heavy rock adventurers.

The Legacy: Why Volcanic Rock Still Matters

So why revisit Volcanic Rock in 2025? Because it’s an artifact of pure, unadulterated rock energy—a raw, imperfect gem that prefigures everything from Kyuss to Queens of the Stone Age. Its primal simplicity, coupled with its audacious ambition, captures the essence of a time when rock was still dangerous.

Want to know more? Dive into the latest episode of the Dig Me Out podcast, where we explore Buffalo’s story in greater detail. From the album’s creation to its lasting influence, it’s an in-depth discussion you won’t want to miss. Stream Volcanic Rock, then tune in to our episode to join the conversation and rediscover the molten core of 70s hard rock.

Songs in this Episode:

* Intro - Intro: Pound of Flesh

* 22:21 - The Prophet

* 28:28 - Freedom

* 32:01 - Shylock

* 52:44 - Sunrise (Come My Way) - Dave Tice's Buffalo Revisited

* Outro - 'Til My Death

Make Your Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Rescue an Album → | Support the Mission →

Picture this: It’s a crisp January morning in 1980. The new decade is fresh, brimming with possibility, and you’re flipping through the racks at your favorite record store. Disco is slipping out of fashion, punk’s rebellious roar still echoes, and the New Wave is gathering momentum. Amidst all this change, Rush—a band known for their sprawling progressive rock epics—is about to redefine themselves.

The moment you unwrap Permanent Waves and place the needle down, something shifts. The opening notes of “The Spirit of Radio”cut through the speakers like a beacon for the new era. You’re swept into a world where Rush balances complexity with accessibility, progressive rock with mainstream ambition. The album was a turning point for a band about to define their legacy.

A Balancing Act Between Complexity and Accessibility

Permanent Waves, recorded at the now-legendary Le Studio in Morin Heights, Quebec, marked the beginning of Rush’s iconic 80s run. With Terry Brown returning as producer, the album showcased a deliberate pivot. Gone were the sprawling epics of Hemispheres (1978). In their place were tightly constructed, thematically sharp tracks that leaned into shorter runtimes while still showcasing the band’s virtuosity .

This album reached number four on the U.S. Billboard 200 and number three in Canada, earning gold and platinum certifications. Not only was it a commercial success, but it also marked the first time the band broke even on a tour, thanks to nine months on the road supporting the record .

A Showcase of Rush’s Evolution

The album opens with “The Spirit of Radio”, an anthem to music’s transformative power. Lifeson’s shimmering guitar riff, Peart’s intricate drumming, and Lee’s powerful vocals meld into a track that bridges progressive rock and radio-friendly melodies. Its unexpected reggae breakdown was a bold experiment, cementing the song’s status as a classic.

“Free Will”, the second single, explores existentialism with blistering technical interplay between guitar and bass. Meanwhile, deeper cuts like “Jacob’s Ladder” unfold like a storm—a dark, atmospheric journey that builds into an otherworldly crescendo.

A surprising inclusion as a single was “Entre Nous”, released in April 1980. Despite its relatively low profile in Rush’s live sets, it encapsulates the album’s lyrical intimacy, proving that even Rush’s quieter moments pack a punch .

Is Rush Metal?

The Permanent Waves episode of Dig Me Out reignited the perennial debate: Is Rush a metal band? While their technical prowess and influence on the genre are undisputed, Rush has always been more at home in progressive rock. However, their heavier tracks, like those from 2112 and even moments on Permanent Waves, ensured they earned respect among metal fans and artists alike .

Why Permanent Waves Still Resonates

With its release, Permanent Waves wasn’t just another Rush album; it was a declaration of intent. The band embraced the future while honoring their past, delivering an album that remains a cornerstone of progressive rock. Decades later, it’s still finding new fans and delighting old ones. As a Dig Me Out listener said: “This album has grown with me. I’ve owned it on every format, and it never gets old” .

Dust off your vinyl or pull it up on your favorite streaming platform—Rush’s Permanent Waves deserves a fresh listen. If this record still gives you chills or you’re discovering it for the first time, let us know.

Songs in this Episode

* Intro - The Spirit of the Radio

* 27:20 - Jacob's Ladder

* 35:33 - Natural Science

* 41:17 - Freewill

* Outro - The Spirit of the Radio

Make Your Voice Heard!

Rush fans, prog rock enthusiasts, and curious listeners, this one’s for you! Your input drives our journey into the music that defined eras. From underrated classics to monumental masterpieces like Permanent Waves, we rely on you to shape the episodes we bring to life.

By joining the DMO Union on Patreon, you help keep us independent and ad-free while gaining the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Together, we’ll continue celebrating the art, the stories, and the magic of progressive rock and beyond—one listener-powered episode at a time.

Dig Me Out is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In 1987, the world of rock and metal was ruled by flamboyant frontmen and larger-than-life bands. But with Surfing with the Alien, Joe Satriani flipped the script. An instrumental album led not by a voice but by six strings, it captured the imaginations of rock fans and musicians alike, proving that the guitar itself could sing.

Joe Satriani’s Surfing with the Alien is often hailed as a milestone in instrumental rock, but its legacy isn’t without debate. While many view it as a masterful fusion of melody and virtuosity, others see it as emblematic of a niche genre that struggles to connect emotionally with a wider audience. Released in 1987, the album showcased Satriani’s technical brilliance and melodic instincts, but its reception reflects a mix of awe, skepticism, and nostalgia.

The Story Behind the Album

Satriani’s journey to guitar stardom began modestly, teaching guitarists like Steve Vai and Kirk Hammett while scraping by in California’s music scene. After a lukewarm reception to his 1986 debut, Not of This Earth, Satriani poured everything he had—financially and creatively—into his follow-up, Surfing with the Alien. The result was a lean, melody-focused album recorded on a modest $13,000 budget that sought to balance technical guitar work with a broader emotional appeal.

The album’s comic book-inspired cover, featuring Marvel’s Silver Surfer, hinted at the larger-than-life ambitions within. Tracks like the title song and “Satch Boogie” delivered on that promise with dizzying technicality, while the ballad “Always With Me, Always With You” showed a more tender, melodic side. These contrasts earned Satriani critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination, yet the album’s broader appeal has remained divisive.

A High-Water Mark for Some, Overindulgent for Others

For fans of instrumental rock, Surfing with the Alien is a triumph. Its melodic hooks and memorable themes make it stand out in a genre often criticized for prioritizing flash over substance. Songs like “Ice 9” and “Crushing Day” blend technical mastery with accessibility, offering riffs and melodies that resonate well beyond the confines of the guitar-obsessed. It’s an album that has moments of brilliance, where the guitar takes on the role of a vocalist, singing stories through its strings.

But not everyone is moved by its charms. For some, the album represents the limitations of instrumental guitar music—tracks that, while impressive, can feel like exercises in technique rather than fully realized emotional experiences. The lack of lyrics and a frontman, which are often strengths for Satriani’s fans, are viewed as barriers for those who find the album’s tone more clinical than heartfelt. Surfing with the Alien’s success in breaking into the mainstream is undeniable, yet its staying power with broader audiences remains a topic of contention.

A Snapshot of a Moment in Rock History

Released at a time when guitar gods like Eddie Van Halen and Yngwie Malmsteen were dominating rock, Surfing with the Alien carved out its own niche. Unlike the baroque complexity of Malmsteen or the blues-rock swagger of Van Halen, Satriani’s approach was focused on melody and structure. While technically dazzling, his songs were crafted to stick in the listener’s mind, often resembling vocal melodies translated to the guitar.

Yet, the album’s groundbreaking status also reflects a specific era. Its mix of virtuosic playing and synthesized production feels firmly rooted in the 1980s, which can be both an asset and a drawback depending on the listener. For those nostalgic for that era, Surfing with the Alien is a time capsule of innovation and possibility. For others, it may feel dated or too polished compared to the raw energy of vocal-driven rock bands of the same time.

The Legacy of Surfing with the Alien

Surfing with the Alien undeniably shaped the trajectory of instrumental rock. It reached number 29 on the Billboard 200, stayed there for 75 weeks, and went platinum—an astonishing feat for an instrumental album. Tracks like “Always With Me, Always With You” remain staples of Satriani’s live performances, while “Satch Boogie” showcases his ability to blend technical prowess with funk-inspired grooves.

Satriani’s influence extends beyond his own discography. His teaching career helped shape the sounds of rock icons like Steve Vai and Kirk Hammett, and his innovations—like pitch axis theory—continue to inspire guitarists across genres. However, the debates surrounding the emotional impact and relatability of his music highlight the challenges instrumental albums face in achieving universal acclaim.

Surfing with the Alien remains a touchstone for guitar enthusiasts and a divisive topic for others. It’s an album that sparks both admiration and critique—praised for its melodic ingenuity and technical mastery, but also questioned for its ability to connect on a deeper emotional level. Whether it’s a groundbreaking classic or a niche curiosity depends on where you stand in the conversation about instrumental rock.

For those willing to dive in, Surfing with the Alien offers a ride through the outer reaches of what the guitar can achieve. Whether it leaves you awestruck or searching for something more, one thing is certain—it’s a journey you won’t forget.

Songs in this Episode

* Intro - Crushing Day

* 18:44 -Right Thru Me - Nicki Minaj

* 23:29 - Ice 9

* 25:03 - Surfing with the Alien

* 26:18 - Echo

* 27:28 - Satch Boogie

* 29:27 - Hill of the Skull

* Outro - Lords of Karma

Make Your Metal Voice Heard!

In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.

Suggest an Album →

Dig Me Out is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

March 1984. Prince, Kenny Loggins, and Bruce Springsteen dominated the pop charts, but something heavier was brewing. Hard rock and metal were clawing their way into the spotlight, and MTV was playing a pivotal role in this revolution. Enter Ratt, with their major-label debut, Out of the Cellar. In a year defined by arena-ready riffs and eye-catching videos, Ratt burst onto the scene with an album that captured the spirit of the times and proved that metal could be more than just a passing trend.

Ratt’s Out of the Cellar is a quintessential snapshot of a band balancing grit and glam at the height of their powers. Released in March 1984, the album combines raw energy with slick production, delivering a sound that’s equal parts rebellious and radio-ready. With tracks like “Round and Round” and “Wanted Man,” Ratt crafted an album that helped define the MTV era of glam metal while staying grounded in the Sunset Strip’s hard rock roots.

A Band Ready for the Big Stage

By the time Out of the Cellar dropped, Ratt was no overnight success. Years of grinding it out in the Los Angeles club scene had sharpened their skills, and their 1983 self-titled EP had already sold an impressive 100,000 copies independently—a testament to their undeniable appeal. The band’s lineup had solidified around frontman Stephen Pearcy, guitarists Warren DeMartini and Robin Crosby, bassist Juan Croucier, and drummer Bobby Blotzer, creating a dynamic chemistry that carried them to the top of the hard rock heap.

Ratt’s dual-guitar approach set them apart, with DeMartini’s sharp, groove-heavy riffs balancing Crosby’s bold, melodic solos. Pearcy’s distinctive snarl gave the band a rougher edge compared to many of their contemporaries, adding a layer of grit to their glam. Their sound wasn’t just catchy—it had character.

The Tracks That Made Out of the Cellar Legendary

“Round and Round” remains the standout hit, with its infectious hooks and soaring dual-guitar solo. The track epitomizes Ratt’s ability to create music that’s equal parts heavy and accessible. Then there’s “Wanted Man,” a cinematic opener that channels old-school Western vibes, and “Back for More,” a slow-burning anthem that builds from acoustic introspection to full-on rock power.

Ratt’s rhythm section deserves its own spotlight. Blotzer’s drumming, especially on tracks like “Lack of Communication,” is far more dynamic than your average 80s metal backbeat. His clever use of cymbal accents and syncopated rhythms brings depth to the album, making it as danceable as it is headbang-worthy.

A Sound That Defined Its Era

Ratt hit their stride at the perfect moment, just as glam metal was breaking into the mainstream. Out of the Cellar is a product of its time, but its rawness and unique qualities keep it relevant. While the production leans a little thin by modern standards, it complements the band’s high-energy style, letting their dual guitars and blistering solos shine.

Thematically, the album balances tales of outlaws (“Wanted Man”) with relationship struggles and party anthems. It’s a snapshot of a time when rock bands weren’t afraid to have fun, but Ratt did it with a touch more grit and attitude than their more polished peers.

The Legacy of Out of the Cellar

Ratt wasn’t just another glam band—they were trailblazers for the MTV generation of hard rock. Out of the Cellar went on to sell over 3 million copies in the U.S., cementing the band’s place in 80s rock history. Its success wasn’t just about “Round and Round” dominating MTV; it was about Ratt’s ability to craft songs that could move between stadiums and smoky clubs with equal swagger.

This album helped set the stage for the glam metal explosion that defined the mid-to-late 1980s. Its raw edges, blazing guitars, and distinct personality made it stand out in a crowded field, giving Ratt a voice that’s still celebrated today.

Why Out of the Cellar Still Rocks

Listening to Out of the Cellar today, it’s clear why this album endures. Its energy, musicianship, and unapologetic attitude make it more than a nostalgia trip. It’s a cornerstone of 80s rock that still feels fresh and fun, especially when tracks like “Back for More” or “Lack of Communication” hit your speakers.

Ratt didn’t just release an album—they created a moment in time. Out of the Cellar captures the raw ambition of a band poised to take over the world, and for a while, they did.

Songs in this Episode

Intro - Round and Round

30:16 - In Your Direction

35:17 - Lack of Communication

36:08 - Back for More

39:06 - Lack of Communication

44:10 - Wanted Man

1:09:09 - One Like a Son

(Vertex) Outro - Round and Round

Make Your Metal Voice Heard!

We’re on a mission to dig deep into the heart of 80s metal, and we can’t do it without you. Your album suggestions fuel the show—whether it’s an overlooked classic or a hidden gem that deserves the spotlight. When you join the DMO Union on Patreon, you’re not just helping us stay independent and ad-free; you’re getting a say in the albums we explore. Together, we’ll uncover the anthems, riffs, and stories that shaped a decade. Let’s rediscover 80s metal, one listener-driven episode at a time.

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In the summer of 1987, the music scene was shifting: the larger-than-life sounds of glam rock and heavy metal were at their peak, and the neon-drenched days of the MTV era were in full swing. Hair metal dominated, with bands like Def Leppard, Whitesnake, and Bon Jovi ruling the charts and radio. Rock fans were riding high on guitar solos, power ballads, and the theatrical spectacle of live shows. Amidst this, a familiar name from a different era, Ace Frehley, the original “Spaceman” of Kiss, reemerged with Frehley’s Comet—a solo album that would go on to become a cult favorite, bridging his past as a member of Kiss with his fresh start as a solo artist.

The Road to Frehley’s Comet

Frehley’s Comet, released in April 1987, was Ace’s first attempt to break out independently since his 1978 solo album with Kiss. This time, however, it wasn’t just a side project—it was an opportunity for Ace to stand alone. After a rocky exit from Kiss, characterized by struggles with addiction and brushes with death (including a notorious car accident in his DeLorean that he references in the track “Rock Soldiers”), Ace had a point to prove. With support from Eddie Trunk, who helped secure him a spot on the Megaforce label, Ace was back in the game, determined to reclaim his legacy in rock.

A Blend of Grit and Melody

As the Dig Me Out hosts delved into Frehley’s Comet, they highlighted its unique blend of Ace’s signature gritty style mixed with melodic, almost pop-rock elements that made it different from a typical heavy metal album. Tracks like “Rock Soldiers” served as a rallying cry, a self-reflective anthem about overcoming personal demons, while “Into the Night,” a mid-tempo stomp, showcased Ace’s ability to craft a compelling hook that stuck with listeners long after the song ended. The hosts also noted how “Stranger in a Strange Land” exemplified Ace’s unmistakable style: raw yet melodic guitar riffs combined with a vocal delivery that was uniquely his own, both rough and endearing.

The Todd Howarth Factor

What made Frehley’s Comet stand out wasn’t just Ace’s return. The album also benefited from the contributions of Todd Howarth, whose more polished, AOR-style vocals and songwriting contrasted with Ace’s grittier approach. Tracks like “Calling to You” and “Something Moved” reflected this dynamic, adding a surprising level of variety to the album. This blending of styles made Frehley’s Comet feel like more than just a solo project—it felt like a band effort, and the result was a sound that was both nostalgic and refreshingly modern for its time.

Embracing the Strange and the Nostalgic

Despite its strengths, Frehley’s Comet isn’t without its quirks. Some tracks, like “Dolls,” with its odd, almost creepy lyrics about mannequins or inanimate “dolls,” veered into strange territory. And while songs like “We Got Your Rock” aimed to pump up the listener, the lyrics felt somewhat clichéd even for the ’80s, as the hosts pointed out with humor. Yet, these moments only added to the album’s charm, capturing a time when rock didn’t take itself too seriously, embracing both the raw and the ridiculous in equal measure.

Legacy of a Comeback Album

Looking back, Frehley’s Comet isn’t just a product of its era but a testament to Ace Frehley’s resilience and talent. The album succeeded in reminding fans why they fell in love with the “Spaceman” in the first place while introducing him to a new generation eager for guitar heroes. While Ace may have never reached the commercial heights of Kiss in his solo career, Frehley’s Comet endures as a cult classic, cherished by fans who appreciate its rough edges, varied styles, and unapologetic rock ethos. For Ace, it was more than just an album—it was a comeback, a declaration that, indeed, the Ace was back.

Songs in this Episode

* Intro - We Got Your Rock

* 21:55 - Stranger in a Strange Land

* 25:14 - Breakout

* 32:17 - Rock Soliders

* 37:28 - Into the Night

* 42:05 - Dolls

* Outro - Calling to You

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