Metallic Blue Records is releasing today for the first time on CD the recordings from ’80s Utah-based female fronted melodic hard rock act ESSEXX, whom previously operated under the name STRYDER.
As STRYDER, the band manged to release the private LP “Nothing At All” in 1984, now here augmented with several bonus tracks previously unreleased. Then the band changed its name to ESSEXX and the musical delivery was even more commercial and catchy. Their mini-album ”We Make It Rock” from 1985 (produced by Ronnie Montrose) is featured here alongside a couple of live tracks.
The colorful lead vocals of Laurie Welker and the sharp riffs / solos from Gilbert Rodriguez (who later was part of hard rockers Bad Boys) should have been enough for ESSEXX / STRYDER to get signed by a major label.
There’s a lot of hooks, catchy refrains and very good musicianship on offer here, mid-80s US stuff that finally sees the light. Finely produced, this remaster brings clarity to these dusted tapes.
Disc 1: Essexx – We Make It Rock
We Make It Rock
No Answer
Hungry
Raisn’ Hell
Got To Be More
Love’s The Answer
Jury’s Out
Stryder live bonus tracks
-Are You For Reals (Live)
-Crusades (Live)
Disc 2: Stryder – Nothing At All
It’s Rock ‘N Roll
Nothing At All
Serious Looks And Dangerous Smiles
Casually
Standin Still
Your Kind Of Game
Dance
Solo
Chance Dancer
Start Again
Nothing Sacred
Dreamer
Fit To Be Tied
I’ll Get By
Just Try And Stop Us
Papa
Princess In A Tower
Laurie Welker – Lead Vocals
Gilbert Rodriguez – Guitar, Backing Vocals, Keyboards
Chris Clary – Guitar, Backing Vocals
Ron Jensen – Bass
Kevin Freebairn – Drums, Backing Vocals