Steelheart - Steelheart (Bonus track ed) (1990)

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Steelheart - Steelheart (Bonus track ed) (1990)

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In 1991 Steelheart released their self-titled debut, most notable for its octave-spanning vocals and a pair of hit power ballads:
"Never Let You Go," which reached number 14 on the Billboard singles chart; and "She's Gone," which fared well internationally.

Possessing metal pipes like few before him, the leonine Steelheart yelper Michael Matijevic scarred the airwaves forever when he
hammered the simply unmatchable chorus of the hairball "I'll Never Let You Go." Ludicrous and sublime, the sound is roughly akin to
Whitney Houston hitting the hot spot in "I Will Always Love You." The opening strands of "Everybody Loves Eileen" bring Ratt out of the
cellar before the cut curls into a pop n' fresh roller coaster ride. The remainders on this ridiculous dish are also overlong examples of
excess but not as memorable, paying homage to Whitesnake and other flailing stylistic ventures. "I'll Never Let You Go" is available on
some quality collections and no aficionado of poodle pomp should let that song go, otherwise leave Steelheart in peace with the music it
helped lay to rest.

Steelheart entered the music scene at the tail-end of the hard rock scene. Ironically their name derives from their previously
failed efforts to get a record deal and their continued struggle until they finally did.
As debut albums go, rarely will you find one quite as solid and consistent as this. From the opening riff of "Love Ain't Easy" it's
clear that Steelheart are the business, the real deal. Without a doubt, Michael Matijevic is one of the most impressive vocalists of this
genre. "Can't Stop Me Lovin' You" and "She's Gone" really showcase his vocal range, hitting notes that other singers can only dream of,
whereas ballads like "I'll Never Let You Go" really show what an equally incredible songwriter he is. The band manage to effortlessly
cover a wide range of styles, from party rockers like "Down N' Dirty" to glam rock masterpieces like "Gimme Gimme" (and no, it's not an
ABBA cover!).
The band is as equally impressive as the songs. Chris Risola's shredding is not too unlike that of Eddie Van Halen and drummer John
Fowler could clearly give some veterans a run of their money.
It's hard to say what bands Steelheart resemble, the unsurpassed abilities of Matijevic make it hard to find a band on a similar
footing, plus the diversity of his songwriting will appeal to a mixed audience. If you like any genre of rock be it hard rock, glam or
sleaze, this is for you.
www.steelheart.com

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Steelheart - Steelheart (Bonus track ed) (1990)

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