With 1988's The Headless Children, W.A.S.P. attempted to be taken as serious artists (for the most part). And while singer/guitarist/leader Blackie Lawless expressed excitement about the band's current lineup, which included longtime guitarist Chris Holmes, bassist Johnny Rod, Quiet Riot drummer Frankie Banali, and Uriah Heep keyboardist Ken Hensley -- the complete group never toured. With the band concentrating more on the music than the gimmicks (the group was pictured sans gho...   [ read more ]

CD $11.38

With glam rock making a comeback of sorts in 1984 (M÷tley Crne, Ratt, etc.), another Los Angeles band, W.A.S.P., couldn't have picked a better time to release its self-titled debut. By merging lyrics that dealt with the expected heavy metal themes (sex, Satanism, etc.) alongside Blackie Lawless' rough vocals and Chris Holmes' guitar riffing, the band sounded and looked more menacing than your average L.A. glam band at the time. Add to it a stage show that was gimmick-heavy ({$Lawles...   [ read more ]

CD $11.38

W.A.S.P. has always seemed to be a bit divided musically. At times, their music comes across as very raw, almost unfinished. However, another side of the band leans to the more melodic and powerful, wall-of-sound approach. This disc showcases both of these sides. Where it seems to work best is on the material that is more in that melodic style. Overall, the CD should please fans of the band, but probably won't bring any new listeners to the fold. [The Japanese release offers one bonus track, a different...   [ read more ]

CD $43.68