Released in 1984, Out Of The Cellar captured the energy of Los Angeles’ Sunset Strip scene and helped establish Ratt as one of the premier bands of the glam metal era. More than four decades later, it still sounds fresh, energetic, and packed with memorable songs.
Who Are Ratt?
Originally evolving from the earlier band Mickey Ratt, Ratt emerged in the early 1980s with a sound that blended aggressive guitar riffs, melodic choruses, and a streetwise edge that separated them from many of their contemporaries. Frontman Stephen Pearcy brought a distinctive vocal style and charismatic swagger, while guitarists Warren DeMartini and Robbin Crosby formed one of the strongest twin-guitar partnerships of the decade. Alongside bassist Juan Croucier and drummer Bobby Blotzer, the group created a powerful musical chemistry that would propel them to multi-platinum success.
Out Of The Cellar – The Album Review
The album wastes no time making an impression. Opening track “Wanted Man” explodes out of the speakers with a driving riff and a cinematic outlaw theme that immediately establishes the band’s confidence. It remains one of the strongest album openers of the era and showcases the aggressive side of Ratt’s sound. “You’re in Trouble” follows with a catchy groove and infectious chorus, proving that the band could balance heaviness with accessibility.
Of course, the centerpiece of the album is the classic hit “Round and Round.” Few songs capture the spirit of 1980s hard rock as effectively. Built around a massive guitar riff, a soaring chorus, and exceptional lead work from DeMartini, it became Ratt’s signature song and helped drive the album to commercial success through heavy radio and MTV exposure. Even today, it remains one of the most recognizable rock anthems of the decade.
Beyond the major singles, Out of the Cellar is surprisingly consistent from beginning to end. “Back for More” combines groove, melody, and attitude in equal measure, while “Lack of Communication” delivers one of the album’s hardest-hitting riffs and most energetic performances. “Scene of the Crime” closes the record with style, and deeper cuts such as “The Morning After” and “I’m Insane” demonstrate that Ratt had far more to offer than just radio-friendly singles.
A major reason for the album’s enduring appeal is the guitar work. The combination of Crosby’s rhythm playing and DeMartini’s melodic yet technically impressive leads gives the record much of its personality. Producer Beau Hill ensured that every riff, solo, and vocal hook hit with maximum impact, resulting in a polished but still powerful sound that became a blueprint for many bands that followed.
More than just a nostalgic relic, Out of the Cellar stands as a timeless hard rock record filled with unforgettable riffs, huge choruses, and genuine musical talent. It is the album that launched Ratt into the big leagues and remains an essential listen for anyone interested in classic 1980s rock and metal.
The Vinyl Review
I was not originally planning to get this album on vinyl, although it is a great album, but the £3 price tag in a secondhand record shop in Manchester somehow swayed me!! Everything in in perfect nick save for a mark on the front sleeve where someone has clearly failed to take the promo sticker off cleanly!! A cracking album for a cracking price….what’s not to love!!
Donnie’s Rating: 9/10
