What do you do when you've just left one of the most popular bands of all time? Go solo!
Styx had already released five albums from 1972 to 1975 when Tommy Shaw joined. He replaced original founding member, John Curulewski, who departed to spend more time with his family. Shaw would stay in the band for seven albums between 1976 and 1984 before leaving to pursue his solo career. Unfortunately, for Styx, this would also set the wheels in motion for the band to disband temporarily.
For his first solo project, Shaw released 1984's, Girls With Guns, the title track being the reason I picked it up. As I played through it, I found it to be much better than I expected, but at the same time, I also felt like I was listening to a Styx album. It's very reminiscent in its sound, and I suppose that's to be expected.
There's definitely good music here, which is what ultimately surprised me that there's not necessarily any hits. Success wise, the title track would only reach number thirty-three on Billboard, and this was followed by Lonely School, which peaked at sixty. Personally, it's just okay. It has songs that are enjoyable, but not necessarily memorable.
It's because of this, that overall, Girls With Guns isn't what I would call a "must own". It's just okay, and because of its potentially to be costly, the aspect that kept me away from it for a long time, it's not one I rushed into grabbing for my collection. Rather, I got around to it eventually, when I came across one on ebay for half the normal asking price. Mind you, this was after being on my want list for over a year.
Shaw would eventually reunite with Styx, but throughout the remainder of the 80's released 1985's What If, and 1987's Ambition. His 85 release was most noteworthy for the inclusion of Remo's Theme, the hero theme to the failed franchise launch Remo Williams. He would also team up for the super group, Damn Yankees. Second only to their lineup, which featured Ted Nugent and Jack Blades, the band was most memorable for the platinum hit, High Enough.
He's definitely had his share of hits, which again, only makes it all the more surprising that this particular album wasn't a polished gem.
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Disclaimer: They Toy Box does not endorse or contribute to piracy. Retro Spins posts are intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. None of the music discussed here is available for sale, downloading or distribution.
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| THIS WEEK ON THE CHARTS March 19, 1983 |
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| THIS WEEK ON THE CHARTS March 19, 1988 |
On a side note, I also came across this, and thought it was hysterical.
If you're following the recent events which occurred around my neck of the woods, then you may see the comedic value here.
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