Rock music. A realm where many have entered, but few have truly left a mark. Enter The Angels, Australia's rock virtuosos, with their album Howling, released in 1986. In a time when the air was thick with synthesized pop and overwrought ballads, The Angels burst forth with raw, uncompromising energy. Now, if you think rock music should be more than just posing and pretense, buckle up!
It's Not Your Typical 80s Synth Pop Overkill: While the mid-80s were drowning in synth pop, The Angels' Howling roared like a defiant wolf among sheep. Think loud guitars and pounding drums, not wimpy keyboards. This was music that didn't apologize for its existence, a refreshing rebellion against the sanitized pop dominating the charts.
Iconic Tracks That Kick You Into Gear: The album opens with 'Did You Hurt Somebody’, a track that almost demands your attention. From the powerful guitar riffs to the in-your-face lyrics, it's unmistakably rebellious. You could imagine it as the perfect driving song—not for the Prius-owner, but for someone cruising in a vintage Mustang with the top down.
The Political and Social Undercurrents: The Angels didn't shy away from tackling themes that mattered. The raw energy was more than sound; it was a call for change, a soundtrack for personal freedom. It's not whining about imaginary oppression; it's projecting a spirit of independence and self-reliance, unfiltered.
Charisma of Doc Neeson: Ah, Doc Neeson, the charismatic frontman whose stage presence alone could set arenas ablaze. His voice on Howling is the sound of someone who believes in what he's saying, embodying an authenticity that's a rarity in today's music scene.
High-Caliber Production That’s Straightforward: Produced by Steve James, the album balances clarity with grit—a feat not easily accomplished. Unlike modern overproduced rock, Howling gives the listener the kind of rough edges that Netflix sitcoms can only dream of recreating.
A Band Not Afraid to Be Rock 'n' Roll: Too often, rock bands today are saddled with PR-induced 'sensitivity'. But The Angels carry the rock torch with pride. They weren’t out to win popularity contests, and certainly didn't pander to the trends of their time. Their boldness is only matched by their talent.
Influence That’s Undeniable: Although The Angels might not have become household names in every part of the world, their influence is ripe among those who know that good music can both entertain and inspire. It's the kind of album that rock legends rave about, and artists of today cite in whispered tones.
A Departure From Overused Trope of 'Modernization': Forget trying to reinvent themselves to fit the charts. Instead, Howling speaks to the eternal truths of rock: rebellion, authenticity, and guts. That's their charm—the defiance to be original and timeless without succumbing to fleeting fads.
A Live Performance That Matches the Record: The Angels were known for live concerts that matched the intensity of their studio albums. Unlike some of today’s bands, who use autotune more than creativity, they brought the same energy to the stage that they captured on tape.
A Reminder of When Music Had Backbone: Summarily, Howling stands not just as an album, but as a statement of what they believed: music should have passion, raw emotion, and a touch of unpredictability. The album and its festival of sound insist that authenticity never goes out of style, no matter how many synth bands push through.
In essence, Howling by The Angels is a testament not just to their musical prowess but to their resolve to stay true to rock roots. A defiance and relevance that is arguably what's missing from the mainstream chart toppers of today.