In the hairspray-soaked, neon-lit landscape of 1990, where MTV still reigned supreme and spandex was a second skin, Vixen's "Rev It Up" roared onto the scene like a chrome-plated Harley, leaving a trail of exhaust fumes and shattered expectations in its wake. This wasn't just another hair metal album; it was a declaration of independence, a middle finger to the male-dominated rock world, and a testament to the raw power of four women who refused to be silenced.
The year was 1990, and the music scene was at a crossroads. Grunge was brewing in Seattle's underground, threatening to topple the hair metal titans from their MTV pedestals. But amidst this seismic shift, Vixen held their ground, clinging to the Sunset Strip sound that had defined a generation. With "Rev It Up," they poured gasoline on the flames, delivering an album that was both a nostalgic celebration and a defiant last stand.
Vixen had already made a splash with their self-titled debut in 1988, proving that they were more than just pretty faces. But "Rev It Up" was a different beast altogether. It was heavier, rawer, and more aggressive, fueled by a desire to prove their mettle in a scene that often dismissed them as a novelty act.
The album opens with the title track, a blistering anthem that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Janet Gardner's vocals are a force of nature, soaring above the crunching guitars and thunderous drums. It's a call to arms, a rallying cry for anyone who's ever felt underestimated or overlooked.
From there, the album barrels through a series of hard-hitting rockers like "How Much Love," "Love Is a Killer," and "Streets in Paradise." These songs are built on a foundation of solid riffs, catchy hooks, and a driving rhythm section that never lets up. Jan Kuehnemund's guitar work is particularly impressive, showcasing a blend of technical skill and raw emotion.
But "Rev It Up" isn't just about aggression. There are moments of vulnerability and introspection, like the ballad "Only a Heartbeat Away" and the bluesy "It Wouldn't Be Love." These songs showcase a different side of Vixen, proving that they were more than just a one-dimensional hair metal band.
The production, helmed by Randy Nicklaus, is slick and polished, capturing the energy of the band's live performances. The album was recorded at the legendary Rumbo Recorders and mixed at A&M Studios, ensuring that every note and every beat was captured with crystal clarity.
Of course, Vixen's all-female lineup was a lightning rod for controversy. Some dismissed them as a gimmick, while others accused them of exploiting their sexuality. But Vixen refused to be pigeonholed. They were unapologetically feminine, but they were also fierce and uncompromising. They weren't afraid to play the game, but they also refused to let the game play them.
"Rev It Up" may not have been a commercial juggernaut, but it remains a testament to Vixen's talent, tenacity, and unwavering spirit. It's an album that captures the essence of a band that refused to back down, even in the face of adversity. In a world that often told them they couldn't, Vixen roared back with a resounding "Yes, we can!" and "Rev It Up" is the soundtrack to that rebellion.
