"Pat Benatar's 'Wide Awake in Dreamland' (1988) stands as her final venture into rock music, concluding an era. With hits like 'All Fired Up,' the album embraces a blend of rock and pop influences. Reflecting the evolving sounds of the late '80s, it encapsulates Benatar's musical versatility. A poignant farewell to her rock roots, 'Wide Awake in Dreamland' remains a testament to her enduring artistry."
Alright, kids, gather 'round. Let's talk about a time when hair was big, MTV was king, and rock and roll was still raw and dangerous. It's 1988, and Pat Benatar, the leather-lunged goddess of rock, is back with "Wide Awake in Dreamland."
Now, this wasn't some wimpy comeback attempt. No sir. This was a full-throated roar from a woman who'd been belting out anthems since the late 70s. Hair metal was all the rage, but Benatar wasn't about to prance around in spandex and tease her hair. She was still rocking hard, with her signature blend of power chords, soaring vocals, and lyrics that cut straight to the bone.
"Wide Awake in Dreamland" is a testament to Benatar's refusal to compromise. It's a fist in the air against the fluffy pop that was dominating the charts. Produced by her long-time collaborator and husband, Neil Giraldo, and recorded at the legendary Power Station in New York City, the album is a masterclass in rock and roll craftsmanship.
The lead single, "All Fired Up," is a classic Benatar anthem, a call to arms for anyone who's ever felt the fire in their belly. It's a song that demands to be played loud, with its driving beat and Benatar's vocals that could shatter glass. It quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of her live shows.
But the album isn't just about arena-ready rock. There's also the tender ballad "Let's Stay Together," a heartfelt plea for connection that showcased Benatar's softer side. The bluesy "One Love" is a sultry exploration of desire, while the raw emotion of "Don't Walk Away" deals with the complexities of a crumbling relationship. Each track on the album showcases Benatar's versatility as a vocalist and songwriter.
Of course, it wasn't all smooth sailing. Some critics accused Benatar of sticking to a tried-and-true formula. But who cares? She was giving the people what they wanted: honest, passionate rock and roll. And in a world that was increasingly obsessed with image over substance, that was a rare and precious thing.
"Wide Awake in Dreamland" is a reminder that Pat Benatar was more than just a rock star. She was a pioneer, a trailblazer, a woman who refused to be silenced. She was a force of nature, and this album is a testament to her enduring power. So crank it up, let your hair down, and remember a time when rock and roll was still wild and free.
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Music Genre: Female Fronted Pop, Rock |
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Album Production: Produced by Peter Coleman & Neil Geralda |
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Record Label & Catalognr: Chrysalis 209146 |
Album Packaging: Original custom inner sleeve with album details, lyrics and photos. |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record |
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Year & Country: 1988 Made in Germany |
Complete Track Listing of: Pat Benatar - Wide Awake in Dreamland |
| Photo of Pat Benatar - Wide Awake in Dreamland Album's Front Cover |
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| Photo of the album back cover |
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Photo of Pat Benatar on the inner sleeve
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Chrysalis 202 845 , 1980 , Germany & Netherlands
"Pat Benatar's 'Crimes of Passion' (1980) is a timeless rock masterpiece, her second album that solidified her status as a musical force. With hits like 'Hit Me With Your Best Shot,' the LP showcases Benatar's vocal prowess and bold sound. A defining moment in '80s rock, the album remains a classic, a testament to Benatar's enduring influence."
Crimes of Passion 12" Vinyl LP
Chrysalis 207 429 , 1985 , Germany & Netherlands
"Pat Benatar's 'Seven the Hard Way' (1985) marks her seventh album in a prolific seven-year span. Fueled by dice-inspired symbolism, the LP captures Benatar's resilience and musical prowess. With hits like 'Invincible,' the album weaves a sonic journey, showcasing Benatar's indomitable spirit. A rock gem that solidifies her enduring impact, 'Seven the Hard Way' is a testament to her musical legacy."
Seven The Hard Way 12" Vinyl LP
Chrysalis 206 582 , 1984 , Germany & Netherlands
"Tropico," Pat Benatar's 1984 album, marked a pivotal shift in her career, fusing rock with new wave and synthesizers. The sixth consecutive Platinum-certified album in the U.S., it showcased Benatar's versatility and produced hits like "We Belong." The chart-topping success on the Billboard 200 solidified Benatar's position as an '80s rock icon, leaving a lasting legacy of artistic evolution and enduring influence.
Tropico 12" Vinyl LP
Chrysalis 209146 , 1988 , Germany
"Pat Benatar's 'Wide Awake in Dreamland' (1988) stands as her final venture into rock music, concluding an era. With hits like 'All Fired Up,' the album embraces a blend of rock and pop influences. Reflecting the evolving sounds of the late '80s, it encapsulates Benatar's musical versatility. A poignant farewell to her rock roots, 'Wide Awake in Dreamland' remains a testament to her enduring artistry."
Wide Awake in Dreamland 12" Vinyl LP
