Dig Me Out: 80s Metal Dig Me Out

Let’s set the stage. It’s 1988. The airwaves are buzzing with the high-octane sounds of Def Leppard, Guns N’ Roses, and Bon Jovi. MTV is our go-to for the latest music videos, and hip-hop is making serious waves with N.W.A. and Public Enemy dropping game-changing albums. We’re quoting Die Hard, laughing at Beetlejuice, and tearing up at Rain Man. TV’s got us hooked on Roseanne and The Wonder Years. The Berlin Wall is still up, and the Cold War is real, but there’s a rebellious buzz in the air.
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Enter Bulletboys. Formed in 1987, these guys burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut album, blending swagger, sleaze, and pure rock energy that just screamed ‘80s metal’. The band featured Marq Torien on vocals, who had a stint with Ratt and King Kobra before joining Bulletboys. Guitarist Mick Sweda, also from King Kobra, brought his flashy, tight guitar work. Lonnie Vencent, another King Kobra alumnus, handled the bass with groovy, solid lines, and Jimmy D’Anda, known for his powerful drumming, completed the lineup.
We’re diving deep into the world of 80s metal with our special guest, Aaron Perrino. You might know Aaron from The Sheila Divine or his current project, Aaron and the Lord. He’s joining us to reminisce about the golden days of metal and share his unique perspective.
We’re talking all things Bulletboys—how they formed from the ashes of King Kobra, their big hits like “Smooth Up In Ya” and their killer cover of the O’Jays’ “For the Love of Money.” We’ll also dig into the highs and lows of their career, their many lineup changes, and their lasting legacy.
Aaron’s got some great stories, including seeing Bulletboys live on the legendary Cinderella tour. Plus, we’ll break down their sound, the production genius of Ted Templeman, and why these guys still matter.
Whether you’re a die-hard metalhead or just dipping your toes into the scene, this episode is packed with nostalgic vibes and deep dives into one of the era’s most dynamic bands. So, grab your denim jacket, crank up the volume, and join us!
Songs in this Episode
* Open - Hard as a Rock
* 5:47 - "Wonder Woman" by Attila
* 21:03 - MTV "Long Cold Winter" Cinderella contest
* 21:49 - "Smooth Up in Ya" (2011 Re-Recorded)
* 27:57 - "Smooth Up in Ya"
* 30:30 - F#9
* 31:21 - Crank Me Up
* 33:48 - Hell on My Heels
* 39:30 - For the Love of Money
* 45:47 - Hard As a Rock
* Close - Crank Me Up
Make Your Metal Voice Heard!
In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestionsdrive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.
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This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit digmeout.substack.com/subscribe

The inspiration for this episode came from an unexpected source - none other than Sebastian Bach of Skid Row fame. During a brief interview with , Sebastian shared a gem with us, recommending that we explore Malice's debut album. Sebastian is a genuine fan of rock and metal, so we were all excited for a deep dive exploration of a band that played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Skid Row and the 80s metal scene.
The year was 1985. Metal was at a crossroads, evolving from its British heavy metal roots while flirting with the glitz and glam of the Sunset Strip. Bands like Judas Priest and Van Halen were experimenting with synthesizers, and the lines between hard rock and glam metal were becoming increasingly blurred. Enter Malice, a band that straddled these worlds, bringing a raw, aggressive energy that set them apart.
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Malice formed in Portland, Oregon, a city not typically known for its metal scene. They quickly made a name for themselves with their powerful sound and dynamic performances. By 1982, they were sharing stages with the likes of Metallica and Armored Saint, and their tracks were featured on the influential Metal Massacre compilation alongside future giants of the genre.
Malice's debut album, "In the Beginning," released in August 1985, is a testament to their unique position in the metal world. The album was co-produced by the legendary Michael Wagner, known for his work with Skid Row and Ozzy Osbourne, and Ashley Howe. This collaboration brought a polished yet powerful sound to the record, one that resonated with the intensity of live performances.
The lineup for the album included James Neal on vocals, Mick Zane and Jay Reynolds on lead guitars, Mark Behn on bass, and Clifford Carruthers on drums. The band's chemistry is evident throughout the album, with each member bringing a distinct energy that collectively created a sound both raw and refined.
"In the Beginning" is an album of contrasts, showcasing the band's versatility and struggle for a cohesive identity. Tracks like "Air Attack" and "Gods of Thunder" highlight their power metal prowess, with soaring vocals and relentless double-kick drumming. James Neal's vocal performance draws inevitable comparisons to Rob Halford of Judas Priest, especially on tracks like "Stellar Masters" and "Hellrider."
Yet, the album also dips into more mainstream, glam-rock territory with songs like "Rockin' With You" and "Squeeze It Dry." These tracks, while energetic, lack the same punch as their power metal counterparts, revealing the band's attempt to balance commercial appeal with their heavier roots.
Despite its uneven reception, "In the Beginning" holds a special place in the annals of 80s metal. It served as an inspiration for many, including Sebastian Bach, who cited it as an influential record for Skid Row's early sound. The album's production quality, particularly the clarity and punch of Wagner's work, set a standard for future metal recordings.
Malice may not have achieved the commercial success of their peers, but their impact is undeniable. They were a band ahead of their time, caught between the shifting tides of metal's evolution. Their music continues to resonate with those who seek the raw, unfiltered energy that defined 80s metal.
Songs in this episode
* Open - Stellar Masters
* 19:48 - Air Attack
* 21:19 - Hell Rider
* 25:43 - Rockin With You
* 27:55 - No Haven for the Raven
* 30:34 - Squeeze It Dry (Keep on Rockin)
* 32:35 - Into the Ground
* 34:17 - Stellar Masters
* Close - Godz of Thunder
Make Your Metal Voice Heard!
In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered

In the late 1980s, when hair metal was all the rage and grunge was just a whisper, King's X dropped "Gretchen Goes to Nebraska." Despite not hitting the mainstream heights of some of their peers, they seriously shook up our latest listener poll with this album. Today's episode of Dig Me Out dives into King's X's unique groove, which carved out a niche that straddled the worlds of their metal and alternative contemporaries.
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We explore how King's X meshed with—and stood out from—the bands they toured with. Imagine sharing the stage with the heavy hitters like Anthrax, AC/DC, and even alt-rockers like Living Colour. King's X managed to hold their own with a sound that mixed deep, soulful harmonies and heavy, intricate riffs. This made them a band that other musicians admired, even if they flew under the radar for the larger public.
“Gretchen Goes to Nebraska," showcased King's X’s knack for blending Rush-like complexity with the emotional rawness that would soon define grunge. Bands like Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains owe a bit of their sound to the trails blazed by King's X, and we're here to tell you exactly how and why.
Recorded with producer Sam Taylor in Houston and released on Megaforce Records, this album is a testament to King's X’s technical chops and thoughtful lyrics. We'll break down tracks like "Over My Head" and "Summerland," discussing how they mix thoughtful musings with rock-solid beats, setting King's X apart from both the glam scene and the emerging grunge movement.
We’ll also ponder why King's X, despite their massive influence and critical nods, never quite became household names. Touring with an eclectic mix, from the theatrical Blue Öyster Cult to metal gods Iron Maiden, showed their range but perhaps left fans puzzled about where exactly to place them in the rock spectrum.
So crank it up and join us on "Dig Me Out 80s Metal" as we dive into the fascinating world of King's X, exploring how they've left an indelible mark on the music scene, beloved by those in the know and just waiting to be rediscovered by new ears.
Songs in this Episode
* Intro - Out of the Silent Planet
* 14:01 - We Were Born to Be Loved - CBS Orchestra
* 28:47 - Over My Head
* 32:36 - You're The Only One - Sneak Preview
* 35:14 - Summerland
* 37:13 - The Difference (In the Garden of St. Anne's On-the-Hill)
* 38:23 - I'll Never Be The Same
* 40:00 - Send a Message
* 40:17 - Black Flag from King's X (1992)
* 43:42 - Out of the Silent Planet
* 48:30 - Over My Head
* 52:26 - I'll Never Be the Same
* 58:06 - This Picture - Jerry Gaskill
* 1:02:00 - Take Me Away - Supershine
* Outro - Pleiades
Your Metal Picks
As we jam through the vast world of 80s metal, it’s your insights and picks that fuel our episodes. Whether it's a hidden gem that slipped through the cracks or a classic that deserves a deep dive, your suggestions keep our playlists fresh and fascinating. By joining the DMO Union on Patreon, you not only help keep our show running smoothly but also get the chance to directly pick the albums we review. Dig into the rich tapestry of 80s metal with us, one record at a time.
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In the twilight of the 1980s, a year that marked the end of an era and the dawn of another, a band emerged that would encapsulate the raw energy and spirit of rock's golden years. This band was Badlands, a powerhouse ensemble formed by none other than Jake E. Lee, known for his explosive guitar solos with Ozzy Osbourne. As Lee parted ways with the Prince of Darkness, he gathered a group of seasoned musicians: Ray Gillen, whose commanding vocals could rival the legends; Eric Singer, a drummer with a pedigree from Black Sabbath (later KISS); and Greg Chaisson, whose bass lines were as deep as they were intricate.
Highlights of This Episode:
Formation of Badlands: After parting ways with Ozzy Osbourne, Jake E. Lee forms Badlands, recruiting powerhouse vocalist Ray Gillen, dynamic drummer Eric Singer, and bassist Greg Chaisson to create a lineup that promised and delivered a potent blend of talent and passion.
Album Exploration: We take a track-by-track look at the debut album, starting with the electrifying "High Wire," diving into the emotional depths of "Dreams in the Dark," and exploring the anthemic "Winter's Call." Each song represents the band's ability to weave powerful lyrics with robust instrumental performances.
Touring Tales: Hear about Badlands' memorable tours with bands like Tesla and Great White, capturing the transition era from glam metal to the rawer sounds that would define the 90s.
Legacy and Loss: Despite their short-lived journey, the influence of Badlands continues. We discuss the bittersweet legacy of the band, the challenges they faced, and how their music lives on in the hearts of fans.
Rare Recordings: The rarity of Badlands' recordings adds a layer of mystique to their legacy. We explore why their music remains a collector's treasure trove and a delightful discovery for new fans.

Songs in the Episode:
Intro - Dreams in the Dark
34:53 - Street Cry Freedom
39:41 - Dreams in the Dark
41:06 - Jade's Song
52:55 - High Wire
55:27 - Devil's Stomp
58:00 - Seasons
1:03:47 - Dancing on the Edge
1:05:43 - Winter's Call
1:14:19 - Winter's Call
Outro - High Wire

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Faster Pussycat emerged from the wild Sunset Strip scene of the 80s, which gave birth to legendary bands such as Quiet Riot, Van Halen, and Ratt. The band introduced a more intense dose of glam and sleaze, which helped them secure a major label deal alongside their peers Guns N’ Roses and L.A. Guns. Taime Downe, a Seattle native, fronted the band, and their debut album showcased a bluesy, pop-glam sound similar to The Rolling Stones and Hanoi Rocks.
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Downe teamed up with Brent Muscat (guitar), Greg Steele (guitar), Eric Stacy (bass), and Mark Michals (drums) to work with producer Ric Browde and craft a classic album that became a staple of the era. The album, released on Elektra Records, includes MTV favorites like “Bathroom Wall” and “Don’t Change That Song,”. As Faster Pussycat embarked on the first tour, they supported a diverse range of artists, from Alice Cooper to David Lee Roth to Motorhead, honing their versatility and undeniable stage presence.
Our deep dive into Faster Pussycat's self-titled debut on Dig Me Out reveals the highs and lows of an album that's as synonymous with the Sunset Strip's glam metal scene as teased hair and leather pants. We explore the tracks that define, delight, and sometimes divide, offering listeners a comprehensive look at an album that continues to resonate.
In our exploration, we highlight the album’s key tracks, noting "Bathroom Wall" and "Don’t Change That Song" for their enduring appeal and MTV staple status, while "Babylon" stands out as an innovative yet ambivalent rap-rock hybrid. Despite its varied reception, the album embodies the rebellious spirit, chaotic nightlife, and unfiltered fun that marked rock 'n' roll's golden era on the Sunset Strip.
Wrapping up the episode, special guest Sebastian Bach drops in to recommend an album for our review, adding another layer of rock authority to our discussion. Join us as we revisit this iconic slice of rock 'n' roll history, celebrating the sleaze, glam, and raw energy that defines an unforgettable decade in music. This isn't just a retrospective; it's a tribute to the timeless allure of rock music and the lasting legacy of Faster Pussycat and its Sunset Strip contemporaries.
Songs in this Episode
* Intro - Babylon
* 10:22 - I Was Made for Loving You (KISS cover)
* 27:50 - Bathroom Wall
* 30:30 - Bottle in Front of Me
* 35:25 - Ship Rolls In
* 36:16 - Smash Alley
* 40:55 - Shooting You Down
* 41:09 - Look What The Cat Dragged In (Poison)
* 43:34 - Cathouse
* 46:00 - No Room for Emotion
* 48:05 - Babylon
* 1:04:20 - Special guest - Sebastian Bach
* Outro - Bathroom Wall
Make Your Metal Voice Heard!
In our quest to explore the depths of 80s metal, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Let's unearth the treasures of 80s Metal, one listener-powered episode at a time.
Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →


This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit digmeout.substack.com/subscribe

This isn't just another record; it's a wild ride through punk's grit and glam rock's glitter, all mashed up in a way only Hanoi Rocks could pull off. Imagine punk's raw energy slamming into glam's flamboyance—that's "Oriental Beat" for you, a genre-bending explosion that set the stage for hair metal to strut its stuff.
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Diving into "Oriental Beat," you're tapping into the essence of Hanoi Rocks, featuring Michael Monroe's electrifying vocals, Andy McCoy's masterful guitar riffs, along with the rhythm foundation laid by Sami Yaffa on bass. It's worth noting that while Razzle is often remembered as the band's iconic drummer, it was actually Gyp Casino who pounded the drums on this particular album. His contribution set the beat for the groundbreaking sound that marked a turning point for the band and the broader rock world.
This album is a deep cut spotlighting a band that, let's be honest, should be on every rock aficionado's radar. Hanoi Rocks wasn't playing games; they were laying down tracks that would inspire legends like Guns N' Roses and Motley Crue. And let's talk about the look—those teased hairs and that rock 'n roll swagger weren't just for show. They were pioneers, setting trends that would dominate the scene.
But "Oriental Beat" isn't just about the tunes or the threads; it's the heart of Hanoi Rocks' story, marked by the tragedy of losing their drummer, Razzle. This event didn't just shake the band; it shook the whole rock world, adding a layer of depth and resilience to their legacy. It's this mix of innovation, influence, and sheer perseverance that makes diving into Hanoi Rocks such a compelling journey.
Listening to "Oriental Beat," you're not just hitting play on a record; you're unlocking a piece of rock history that continues to resonate. This album invites us to explore its standout tracks that defy genre norms to the captivating narrative of a band that rocked the 80s scene, enduring as a touchstone for musicians and fans alike.
So, here's to "Oriental Beat," an album that refuses to fade into the background, continuing to spark debates, inspire artists, and thrill new listeners. It's a testament to Hanoi Rocks' undeniable impact on the music world, a legacy built on innovation, style, and a spirit that's as infectious now as it was in the 80s. Hanoi Rocks might just be the best band you've never given a proper listen to, until now.
Songs in the Episode
* Intro - Oriental Beat
* 18:39 - No Law and Order
* 20:41 - Teenangels Outsiders
* 22:21 - Sweet Home Suburbia
* 25:17 - Visitor
* 31:06 - Oriental Beat
* 32:51 - Motorvatin'
* 35:48 - Devil Woman
* 46:10 - MC Baby
* 47:45 - Fallen Star
* Outro - Lightnin' Bar Blues
Make Your Voice Heard!
In our quest to explore the depths of 90s Rock, we rely on you, our listeners. Your suggestions drive our show – be it an underrated classic or a forgotten gem. By joining our DMO Union on Patreon, you help us stay independent and ad-free and gain the power to vote on and choose the albums we dive into each year. Together, let's unearth the treasures of 90s Rock, one listener-powered episode at a time.
Suggest an Album → | Support the Mission →



This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit digmeout.substack.com/subscribe