Yesterday, in June 2023, Ratt were trending on Twitter. There was a debate raging about them and Nirvana and who were the better musicians. On the one hand, it’s all a bit tedious (like what you want to like, after all), but on the other hand, it is my belief, as someone who lived through the late ’80s and early to mid-’90s, that the effect of the “grunge” movement is vastly overplayed.
There is a belief that the second people heard Nirvana, no other music mattered. The truth is, as it always does, it went around in circles. The glam metal thing got boring with too many imitators. The strongest, like they always do, thrived, and 30 years later, there’s a revival.
Which brings us to Vypera.
The Swedish band’s second album is so late ’80s it probably comes with a free Walkman and a copy of Hard and Heavy on VHS, but, my goodness, it’s a cracker of a thing. It captures the essence of that era and brings it back with fresh energy.
The album kicks off with “Hey You,” a metal-tinged track that sets the tone for what’s to come. “Riding On The Wind” follows, and it feels like the ’80s revival has truly begun. The guitars, the melodies, everything about it takes you back to that era.
“Mary Jane” starts with a solo that bursts out, ready to rock. And speaking of solos, man alive, the solo in this song is incredible. “Stormwind” is a ballad that briefly restrains itself before showcasing its power. “Vicious” has a gallop because it fancies one, and why not? It’s a testament to the band’s ability to incorporate different elements into their music.
“No Place For A Dreamer” is a massive swagger of a thing, with a bass breakdown in the middle reminiscent of the new Extreme record. “Trying Hard To Run Away” could easily be mistaken for a Danger Danger tune, as it captures that same energy and spirit. “Fools Game” builds up the anticipation, and when it finally explodes, it does so in spectacular fashion. “Speedin'” appropriately lives up to its name, with Saxon patches on the side of its motorbike.
The album continues with “Daytona,” a big, expansive track that feels arena-ready. Just like the band itself, it exudes confidence and power. And if you thought you were missing some Van Halen, fear not, “Slave To Love” satisfies that craving.
Look at the cover of “Race Of Time,” a smiling rock god hanging out of the left-hand door, all teeth and cool. If you’re not thinking of Bon Jovi (although this is much heavier), then I don’t know what to tell you. And there’s a guitar hero too, Cederick Forster is that. He really is, and if you want my opinion, for what it’s worth, grunge was never as good as hard rock because it never had guitar solos. This album has millions.
It’s easy to get old and cynical. Yes, of course, I’ve heard the sort of stuff on “Race Of Time” before (hell, I grew up with it), but if you stop being cynical for 40 minutes, this album is brilliant.
Rating 8.5/10
