STEVE PLUNKETT
"Straight Up" (Cleopatra Records;
2024)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Steve Plunkett was the original vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the band Autograph. When the band re-united in recent years, Plunkett wasn't interested. Instead, he went on to record "Straight Up," his first solo album since 1991 (wow!)
I'm sorry that Autograph and Plunkett couldn't get together again but, if the result was "Straight Up," I'm kinda glad it didn't happen. "Straight Up" is ten tracks of peppy rock'n'roll that will make you think not only of the classic Autograph sound but other legendary, non-metal bands like The Knack ("Here We Go" and The Cars ("First Step"). Like Autograph, Plunkett has a rock'n'roll sound that's (first and foremost) fun, sparkling and almost instantly addictive. I mean, once you listen through "Straight Up," you're gonna want to hear it again.
The album starts with the solid rocker, "Rock Machine," which sets the tone for the rest of the album, and it doesn't let up from there. Many of the songs are about being a rock musician/star (i.e., "Six String Hero," "Rock Star," "We Gonna Jam," "On the Stage") which make sense considering Plunkett's history. This is one of those albums that doesn't have a bad track on it and, honestly, I don't think I can choose a couple of favorites. I like all ten tracks pretty equally.
Plunkett hasn't been idle in the many years since his last solo album ("My Attitude"). He's written dozens, if not hundreds, of songs for artists like The Go Go's, Edgar Winter and Vixen, plus has done production work with artists such as Cyndi Lauper and Graham Nash. What I'm saying here is that the man has some serious musical chops, and "Straight Up," is a great example of that. Let's hope its not another thirty-three years before we hear from Steve Plunkett again.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
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Copyright © 2024 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
