Motley Crue - Theatre Of Pain

Released in 1985

Motley Crue's third album, Theatre of Pain, is laced with a certain element of irony, for although it was the first album to gain widespread commercial success it's also considered by many to be their most lackluster 80's album. Their previous two albums were serious metal releases that focused more on stirring controversy by lightly suggesting satanic influences, whereas the proceeding two albums were widespread pop-metal offerings that possessed equal parts fun and musical fury.

Theatre of Pain was this band's transition stage, whereby they moved into the direction of creating a hard, yet commercially accessible, sound. Although by no means a failure, this album does indeed reflect signs of growing pains since it's not nearly as addictive or polished as their next two albums.

That isn't to say this album has nothing to offer, for it does contain some highlights such as:

• Home Sweet Home – Definitely one of the, if not THE, best power ballads ever performed by Motley Crue. Passionate vocals and top notch musicianship.
• Smokin' In The Boys' Room – This metal remake of the original is great rebellious fun, and was the first Top 40 track Motley Crue experienced.
• Raise Your Hands To Rock – As its title suggests, this is a hair metal anthem with definite appeal.

In the end this was a necessary album for Motley Crue to create, for they honed their commercial-metal skills and later created two of 80's essential hair metal albums (Girls, Girls, Girls and Dr. Feelgood). If you are just getting into Motley Crue I don't believe this is the best album for an introduction to the band; I would suggest Dr. Feelgood for first-timers. But if you're a hair metal or Motley Crue fan you'll find this a satisfying addition to your collection.

Rating: 6

Track List City Boy Blues Smokin' in the Boys' Room Louder Than Hell Keep Your Eye on the Money Home Sweet Home Tonight (We Need a Lover) Use It or Lose It Save Our Souls Raise Your Hands to Rock Fight for Your Rights Home Sweet Home (Demo Version) Smokin' in the Boys' Room (Alternate Version) City Boy Blues (Demo Version) Home Sweet Home (Instrumental Rough Mix) Keep Your Eye on the Money (Demo Version) Tommy Drum Piece from Cherokee Studios Home Sweet Home (Video)

Additional Resources:

• Too Fast for Love Review
• Shout at the Devil Review
• Girls, Girls, Girls Review
• Dr. Feelgood Review

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