Def Leppard - Pyromania

Released in 1983

Although Hysteria is recognized by most as being the pinnacle of Def Leppard's career, their third album Pyromania was far more revolutionary. That's a strong adjective to use for an album, but it fits because through this album Def Leppard played a major role in releasing pop-metal to the masses. For nearly a decade melodic hard rock and pop-metal dominated the radios, as well as MTV, and Def Leppard was one of the pioneers that made it happen.

Pyromania is a thoroughly polished album, removing any trace of rawness from the production. Whereas some fans actually preferred the somewhat raw sound of the first two albums, most would agree the polished sheen this album possessed was integral to its influential success.

Although the entire band is clearly composed of gifted musicians, lead singer Joe Elliott deserves special recognition for his masterful vocals. His voice emanates power, yet it's laced with so much melody that it weaves you into each track, beckoning you to join along. It's quite probable that the band would never have received such levels of success had they featured a less proficient vocalist.

Some of the highlights on Pyromania are:

• Photograph – This song is responsible for taking anthems to the next level, and ranks right up there with Def Leppard's all-time best tracks.
• Foolin' – A thoroughly infectious rocker that starts off with a bang and then continues gaining momentum as the song moves along.
• Rock of Ages – Great, cheesy fun! This rock anthem will have you shouting "long live rock 'n roll."

As Def Leppard's career progressed they transitioned from heavy metal to melodic hard rock, which was just fine with me since I very much enjoy both related genres. Pyromania began this gradual transition, though it very firmly remains in the metal camp. No Def Leppard or 80's metal fan should be without this revolutionary album.

Rating: 9 stars

Track List Rock Rock ('Til You Drop) Photograph Stagefright Too Late for Love Die Hard the Hunter Foolin' Rock of Ages Comin' Under Fire Action! Not Words Billy's Got a Gun

Additional Resources

• On Through the Night Review
• High 'N' Dry Review
• Hysteria Review

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