Pat Benatar - Tropico

Released in 1984

You have to give Pat Benatar credit for being a prolific artist. Tropico was her sixth album in six years (though her previous release, Live From Earth, was a live recording with two new studio songs tagged on), which is definitely above the norm. But more importantly, how was it?

I rank it up there with Pat Benatar's best albums. It's clear from the beginning that Tropico does not contain the furious rock assaults of Crimes of Passion or Precious Time. Instead this album is a collection of mostly mid-tempo, melodic pop-rockers. Some older fans may bemoan the move away from arena rock, but since her transition to a new style was accomplished so admirably I have no qualms with her choice.

Some of the album highlights are:

• We Belong – The fantastic musicianship and tempo of this song almost gives it a "marching" feel – very rousing and strong. One of Benatar's better-known hits.
• Temporary Heroes – A prime example of this album's new sound: lighter and ultra-melodic.
• Crazy World Like This – An extremely catchy mid-tempo rock song infused with plenty of melody. Pure ear candy.

The bottom line is if you cannot stomach the thought of a less angry or frenetic Pat Benatar, Tropico may disappoint you some, but if you also enjoy mid-tempo rock with pop sensibilities then chances are you'll find this to be one of Pat Benatar's most consistent releases.

Rating: 7 stars

Track List Diamond Field We Belong Painted Desert Temporary Heroes Love in the Ice Age Ooh Ooh Song Outlaw Blues Suburban King A Crazy World Like This Takin' It Back

CD

DVD

Additional Resources:

• Crimes of Passion Review
• Precious Time Review
• Get Nervous Review
• Live From Earth Review
• Seven the Hard Way Review
• Wide Awake in Dreamland Review

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