Cinderella - Long Cold Winter

Released in 1988

When first listening to Long Cold Winter, Cinderella fans might become a bit nervous when they hear a song that shares as much, if not more, with the blues genre than the hair metal we've come to expect. But fear not, hair metal fans, for although this rocking album does begin to adopt some bluesy overtones, there are quite a few power ballads and metal classics that make this one of the 80's better metal albums.

Cinderella proved to the world it was by no means a one-trick pony with the release of its sophomore album Long Cold Winter, an album that lends added depth and richness to the musicianship. It still rocks, and lead singer Tom Keifer still possesses his distinctive, somewhat raspy sound, but you'll find bluesy elements creeping into some of the tracks ala Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith.

In fact thanks to standout tracks like Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone) and Coming Home, this was Cinderella's most commercially successful album. This was the last true hair metal for this band, for 1990 would find the band continuing in the gritty bluesy rock direction with their third album Heartbreak Station, and while their work was still undeniably good, it was definitely a let down for hair metal fans (as reflected by the album's poor sales).

Some of the standout tracks on Long Cold Winter are:

· Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone) – This powerful power ballad was a hit on the charts and airwaves with its atmospheric and moody sound.
· Last Mile – This anthem possesses an addictive sound and catchy chorus that demands you join right in. It's one of those songs that can remain in your head for hours after you've finished listening to it.
· Coming Home – Another radio hit that became a regular appearance on MTV. Strong guitar work, passionate vocals and an infectious vibe permeate throughout this standout song.

Most Cinderella fans believe Long Cold Winter was their best album, and I can understand why. It's a richer album that stretched the standard expectations people possessed for hair metal, and thus it's a remarkable work. That said, it's a tossup for me whether I prefer this slightly blues-influenced work or their sheer rocker debut Night Songs.

Rating: 8 stars

Track List Fallin' Apart at the Seams Gypsy Road Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone) The Last Mile Second Wind Long Cold Winter If You Don't Like It Coming Home Fire and Ice Take Me Back

Additional Resources

• Night Songs Review

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