If you take a look at the CD cover of Side Kixx‘s 1988 album Talk of the Town, which depicts a penguin getting out of a limousine with a leggy girl and dressing like a sophisticated city man, you can at least understand that the band has a sense of humor. But that’s about all the cover says. Bad Reputation New sound remaster.
In a word… cover art has come a long way since 1988. That aside, the music on Talk of the Town from this New Jersey quartet is similar to that of bands like Trixter and Firehouse, with pumping guitar anthems and vocals that only true tenors can match. Guitarist Mike Peterson opens the disc with a catchy riff on Talk of the Town. The level of the music and the high quality of the vocals are a bit reminiscent of Hurricane. This is another great hard rock pop hit, with every note bursting with energy. Peterson’s guitar solo is intense and fluid, and this is a strong introduction to the Side Kixx sound. In the Night is the next song, another razor sharp riffage. It’s a bit reminiscent of TNT at the time, with bubbly guitar leads and soaring vocals. They were probably influenced by Bon Jovi, but how could it be otherwise when they are from New Jersey. The harmonies and backing vocals are great, and drummer Brian Peterson adds even more power to the song with massive drum fills. Another hit that wasn’t a hit. The first slower composition is Headin’ for a Heartache. Let It Go is presumably a live track because an announcer says, “We’ve got a great band for you now. Ladies and gentlemen… Side Kixx!” Kotch lets out an opening yell and they launch into a fiery, stomping rocker. With No More (Getting’ the Best of Me) they get back on track. Instead of good times and partying, this is about an edgier song. Kotch adds an element of anger to his vocals, and instead of drinking beer and partying, the song encourages a fight. Damn cool song. The whole thing ends with You Make the Rockin’ World Go Round. This is probably a homage to Queen, with triumphant shredding from Peterson on guitar and maniacal drumming from the other Peterson. It’s easy to see why they were so popular back then… Talk of the Town is just another good look over the shoulder at the past. If you liked Hair Metal back then, you should definitely check out Side Kixx today!
01 Talk Of The Town
02 In The Night
03 Headin’ For A Heartache
04 Outta Love
05 Let It Go
06 No More (getting’ The Best Of Me)
07 She’s A Runner
08 You Make The Rockin’ World Go Round