Imagine a world without the irresistible riffs and soul-shaking melodies that bands like Mr. Big brought to the music scene. That thought alone is enough to make any real rock aficionado shudder. Mr. Big's album "What If..." dropped on December 15, 2010, marking a significant moment in rock history. This iconic band, known for its unyielding musical prowess and emotional resonance, reunited in 2009, with "What If..." being the first album to feature the original lineup—Eric Martin, Paul Gilbert, Billy Sheehan, and Pat Torpey—since their disbandment in 2002. Recorded at The Village in Los Angeles, California, the album's creation was a testament to enduring talent and collaborative spirit.
Now, let's cut through the static of overly synthesized tracks and phony musical trends. "What If..." is a rock purist's delightful jab at modern music's heavy reliance on auto-tune and computer-generated beats. The album doesn't just flirt with real instrumentation; it marries it, providing a rich soundscape that emphasizes raw guitar licks, dynamic drumming, and intense bass lines.
First up, the aggressive opener, "Undertow," captures what it means to be truly alive in a world that increasingly feels manufactured and sanitized. Nothing is more refreshing than an unapologetic dive into pure rock, where each guitar solo doesn't ask for permission but instead demands your full attention.
Secondly, there's "American Beauty," a track that's a rebellious grind against the ordinary. With lyrics that might wrench the hearts of those who prefer candy-coated themes over gutsy reality, Mr. Big reminds us that a hint of controversy can make life a whole lot more interesting.
Next, "Stranger in My Life" serves as a soulful reminder of the emotional struggles that come with human connections. This song serves as a poignant commentary on how digital-age isolation can leave people feeling even more detached.
Don't sleep on "Nobody Takes the Blame," its pounding energy, and a chorus that stays lodged in your brain. This band doesn't shy away from returning the raw power of rock to a population that's often force-fed watered-down, politically safe music.
Now, some might say "Still Ain't Enough for Me" encapsulates a more traditional rock sound, but in a music industry seeking attention through shock value and insipid hooks, this track's essence is a call back to the roots of rock 'n' roll itself, where skill and passion came first.
"All the Way Up" is all about perseverance, climbing to the top against the odds. Take notes, world! Those who break through barriers ain’t the ones wallowing in mediocrity.
Don't forget the ballad "To Be with You," which isn't on this album but serves as an eternal reminder of Mr. Big's versatility. Despite its absence, the emotive authenticity seeps into every corner of "What If..."
The fans who simply must have a heavy dose of instrumental genius will be thrilled. Paul Gilbert's guitar work, Billy Sheehan’s bass playing, and Pat Torpey’s drumming are basically a master class: a slap in the face for anyone who dares to question the irreplaceable charm of true musicianship.
"Around the World" tells us that not all heroes wear capes; some wield guitars. Its message is clear and bold: the global language of rock transcends borders.
Finally, "I Won't Get in My Way" wraps things up like the fireworks at a glorious freedom celebration, a sonic declaration of self-assurance and grit.
Record producer Kevin Shirley deserves a hearty nod here for ensuring the album's energy didn't get lost in translation from studio to stereo. There's a reason why Shirley, a legend in his own right, became the wizard behind the album.
In a world where pop and political correctness go hand-in-hand like agendas at a rally, "What If..." is a fierce, melodic storm crashing enthusiastically onto that bland landscape, ensuring that real music—for those who are willing to listen—is alive and well.