I finally ADD a REAL CD-rip, Enjoy Good Sound! just released Bad Reputation Records remastered reissue of BEGGARS & THIEVES self-titled record “Beggars & Thieves“. This is one hell of an album, awesome American Hard Rock with that melodic waves so typical 1990-91 not only in style, but production sound as well handled by the legendary duo Steve Thompson & Michael Barbiero.
The music on the Beggars & Thieves debut was spectacular; the group had a more mature sound than many of their contemporaries; with so many bands obsessed with sleazy, degenerate looks, and subject matters to their music, Beggars & Thieves would have been a welcome addition to the rock and roll world.
They have drawn comparisons to group like BADLANDS, though Beggars & Thieves had a more melodic / AOR sound, something that helped them to stand out in the minds of those who have listened to them over the years.
The audio quality on this reissue excellent.
When the Rock music trends of the world started to change in the early 1990s, there were countless bands that never got a fair shake – Beggars & Thieves is a prime example.
Initially comprised of former Modern Design members Louie Merlino on vocals and Ron Mancuso on guitar, bassist Phil Soussan (formerly of OZZY’s band and co-writer of the hit “Shot in the Dark”), and drummer Bobby Borg (later in WARRANT) – plus Alan St. John (ALICE COOPER) playing keyboards – the group released this self-titled debut album in 1990.
This is most certainly not a band that should have been “swept under the rug” as a result of record company politics; they definitely had a lot of unique elements they brought to the table. In fact, despite a lack of mainstream support, the group would continue to release sporadic albums over the years.
Many rock anthems that should have been a hit make their appearance on this album; anyone who gives this LP a chance will be surprised by how well it holds up today. This record absolutely stands the test of time, and it is a shame to see this is a band that does not get more recognition.
The title track was a minor hit, with a music video produced, but unfortunately the remainder of the material remains undiscovered and unappreciated.
Someone seeking an album of quality melodic, mature hard rock will enjoy what they find here. If you want to bang your head or you crave sleazy rock and mindless screaming, go listen to one of the other countless bands that can entertain you there.
For its 11-track duration, the Beggars & Thieves debut serves up several fantastic tracks.
The opening cut “No More Broken Dreams” even features an extended instrumental, anthemic intro that helps to pave the way for the rest of the album, making for the ideal introduction.
Ranging from bluesy, melodic rock driven tracks to slower cuts that beautifully show off just how diverse the band is, there are plenty of highlights to be experienced here, including rockers like “Billy Knows Better,” “Let’s Get Lost,” and “Heaven and Hell” (not a cover of the Black Sabbath song).
Of course, the title cut which closes out the album, and spawned the aforementioned music video, remains arguably its most memorable track. Some songs on this album are stronger and more memorable than others, but there is not a single weak one here.
The band members themselves deserve some serious credit as well. Louie Merlino is an underrated but very talented vocalist, and it is no surprise to see that legendary songwriter Desmond Child utilized him over the years to perform backing vocals on recordings from countless artists, including Joan Jett, Cher, Bonnie Tyler, Alice Cooper, Michael Bolton, and more.
Likewise, guitarist Ron Mancuso is an underrated talent as well; you are not likely to see this guy’s name pop up on “greatest guitarists” lists, but his abilities speak for themselves. While Soussan and Borg were not long lasting participants in the group, their contributions to the band’s first and arguably best record should not be overlooked either.
Beggars & Thieves’ work, namely their 1990 self-titled debut, is a mandatory revisiting if you dig that classic late 80s / early 90s American melodic rock style and huge production design.
One of many records/bands that never got a fair shake despite great material at hand, this one is not to be overlooked or forgotten.
01 No More Broken Dreams
02 Billy Knows Better
03 Waitin' For The Man
04 Your Love Is In Vain
05 Isn'it Easy
06 Let's Get Lost
07 Heaven And Hell
08 Love Junkie
09 Kill Me
10 SA Bitch
11 Beggars & Thieves
BEGGARS & THIEVES – Beggars & Thieves [Bad Reputation remastered] (2022)+FLAC
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