Bangkok Shocks Saigon Shakes Hanoi Rocks 1981 Album

Hanoi Rocks

For whatever reason, it took a group from Finland, of all places, to give 80's glam rockers a blue print, from looks to energy to sound. This is gutter-romance street rock following closely on the heels of the New York Dolls and the Heartbreakers (the Johnny Thunders version), straddling the line between punk and metal. The songs are not as distinctive but definitely more subtle and refined than their American counterparts Motley Crue, which makes them more interesting to listen to (at least I think so). Lead singer Michael Monroe's squelchy voice might turn off some ears, but I think it fits in with overall vibe of the record. Definitely worth multiple revisits.