The 80s was a golden age for metal music, defined by its diversity and outrageous spirit. Tesla's 1986 debut, "Mechanical Resonance," stands out as an album encapsulating the era's essence.
In this decade, MTV reigned supreme, catapulting metal into the global spotlight. Icons from Iron Maiden to Poison rode this wave, gaining immense popularity through the channel's 24-hour influence. Yet, amidst the glitz and glam that defined the era, Tesla emerged with a distinct blue-collar ethos. The question arises: How did this band carve such a unique identity in a scene saturated with spectacle?
A significant part of Tesla's unique approach can be attributed to the influence of Tom Zutaut, a producer whose Midas touch had previously worked wonders with bands like Guns N' Roses. Zutaut, known for his keen ear and ability to nurture a band's intrinsic sound, played a pivotal role in Tesla's transformation. Under his guidance, Tesla evolved from their initial "City Kidd" persona, challenging and reshaping the conventional norms of metal. Zutaut's expertise in balancing commercial appeal with artistic integrity helped Tesla craft an album that stood apart in content and style.
"Mechanical Resonance" is much more than a mere collection of songs. It represents the depth of Tesla's musical talent, with each track showcasing its versatility and a deliberate avoidance of the clichés that many contemporaries embraced. The album introduced Tesla to the world and impacted how 80s metal was perceived and continued evolving.
Revisiting "Mechanical Resonance" today is both a nostalgic journey and an exploration of an era dominated by MTV and larger-than-life bands. This album beckons us to delve deeper and see beyond big hair and spandex stereotypes.
Songs in This Episode:
Intro - Modern Day Cowboy
29:35 - Cumin' Atcha Live
35:21 - Gettin' Better
38:49 - EZ Come EZ Go
42:32 - Modern Day Cowboy
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Tesla - Mechanical Resonance | 80s Metal Album Review