August 12, 2024 - 919 views
Warrant’s 2017 album Louder Harder Faster is a testament to the band’s resilience and ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. The album features classic members Joey Allen, Erik Turner, Jerry Dixon, and Steven Sweet, with Robert Mason as the lead vocalist for the second time, having previously lent his voice to the 2011 album Rockaholic. As their ninth studio album, it also marked their first release following the passing of original lead singer Jani Lane.
I had read an earlier article where reflecting on fan reactions to the album, lead guitarist Joey Allen candidly expressed his disappointment: “That’s a hard pill to swallow," he admitted, regarding the audience's reluctance to embrace new music. “It’s a bitter pill to swallow when you are onstage looking down,” he added, acknowledging the challenge of performing new material to fans who may not be as enthusiastic. This sentiment underscores the uphill battle classic bands face when introducing fresh work to audiences often attached to nostalgic hits.
The album kicks off with the high-octane title track, delivering exactly what it promises—loud, hard, and fast rock that’s sure to get your blood pumping. But it was the second track, "Devil Dancer," that truly pulled me in. There’s something about the groove and attitude in this song that feels quintessentially Warrant, yet with a fresh edge that makes it stand out.
As I worked my way through the album, I found myself hooked on every track holding my attention from start to finish, particularly "Perfect" and "Only Broken Heart." And, of course, no album from a band that has an association to 80s hair rock would be complete without a ballad. "U In My Life" fills that role beautifully, offering a tender moment amidst the album’s rock anthems.
Between the songwriting, musicianship, and production, Louder Harder Faster is an album that deserves to be heard. It’s a shame it didn’t get more recognition at the time, and I regret that I also missed its release—but as they say, better late than never. This album is now firmly on my playlist, and I’ll be making sure it gets some airplay on FM2.0 Radio.
One question I’ve often asked is, "Fans, are we friend or foe?" We cherish our memories and the nostalgia that keeps us playing the classics over and over. But when we dismiss a band’s new material, we miss out on the chance to create new memories and experiences. Louder Harder Faster is an album that deserves that chance. So, go give it a listen—or better yet, let it become the soundtrack to some new life experiences. You might find yourself just as excited to hear "Music Man" live as you are to hear "Cherry Pie" or "Heaven."
While I regret not discovering this album sooner, I’m glad I finally did. Every track on Louder Harder Faster hits the mark, proving that Warrant still has plenty of fire left in them.
Comments(0)