Let’s set the stage. It’s 1988. The airwaves are buzzing with the high-octane sounds of Def Leppard, Guns N’ Roses, and Bon Jovi. MTV is our go-to for the latest music videos, and hip-hop is making serious waves with N.W.A. and Public Enemy dropping game-changing albums. We’re quoting Die Hard, laughing at Beetlejuice, and tearing up at Rain Man. TV’s got us hooked on Roseanne and The Wonder Years. The Berlin Wall is still up, and the Cold War is real, but there’s a rebellious buzz in the air.
Does this album bring back good vibes?
Enter Bulletboys. Formed in 1987, these guys burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut album, blending swagger, sleaze, and pure rock energy that just screamed ‘80s metal’. The band featured Marq Torien on vocals, who had a stint with Ratt and King Kobra before joining Bulletboys. Guitarist Mick Sweda, also from King Kobra, brought his flashy, tight guitar work. Lonnie Vencent, another King Kobra alumnus, handled the bass with groovy, solid lines, and Jimmy D’Anda, known for his powerful drumming, completed the lineup.
We’re diving deep into the world of 80s metal with our special guest, Aaron Perrino. You might know Aaron from The Sheila Divine or his current project, Aaron and the Lord. He’s joining us to reminisce about the golden days of metal and share his unique perspective.
We’re talking all things Bulletboys—how they formed from the ashes of King Kobra, their big hits like “Smooth Up In Ya” and their killer cover of the O’Jays’ “For the Love of Money.” We’ll also dig into the highs and lows of their career, their many lineup changes, and their lasting legacy.
Aaron’s got some great stories, including seeing Bulletboys live on the legendary Cinderella tour. Plus, we’ll break down their sound, the production genius of Ted Templeman, and why these guys still matter.
Whether you’re a die-hard metalhead or just dipping your toes into the scene, this episode is packed with nostalgic vibes and deep dives into one of the era’s most dynamic bands. So, grab your denim jacket, crank up the volume, and join us!
Songs in this Episode
Open - Hard as a Rock
5:47 - "Wonder Woman" by Attila
21:03 - MTV "Long Cold Winter" Cinderella contest
21:49 - "Smooth Up in Ya" (2011 Re-Recorded)
27:57 - "Smooth Up in Ya"
30:30 - F#9
31:21 - Crank Me Up
33:48 - Hell on My Heels
39:30 - For the Love of Money
45:47 - Hard As a Rock
Close - Crank Me Up
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Bulletboys - Bulletboys | 80s Metal Album Revisited