MADAM X - WE RESERVE THE RIGHT 12" Vinyl LP Album

Emerging in the vibrant and often excessive glam metal scene of the mid-1980s, Madam X's debut album "We Reserve the Right" was a bold statement from an all-female band ready to rock as hard as their male counterparts. Released in 1984, this 12" vinyl LP captured a moment in music history where hairspray, leather, and power chords reigned supreme.

Historical Context and Musical Exploration

"We Reserve the Right" arrived at a time when glam metal was reaching its commercial peak, with bands like Mötley Crüe and Ratt dominating the charts. However, female-fronted rock acts were still a relative rarity. Madam X defied expectations by embracing the genre's flamboyant aesthetics while showcasing their musical chops.

The album is a thrilling blend of hard rock energy, catchy melodies, and a touch of pop sensibility. It features a diverse range of songs, from anthemic rockers like "High in High School" and "Metal in My Veins" to the sassier "Dirty Girls" and the ballad-esque "Stand Up and Fight."

Music Genre and Controversies

While firmly rooted in the glam metal genre, "We Reserve the Right" also flirted with elements of heavy metal and hard rock, showcasing the band's versatility. This eclectic approach attracted a wide range of fans, although some critics accused the band of conforming to genre stereotypes.

The album's cover art, depicting the band members in provocative poses, fueled some controversy, with accusations of sexism and exploitation. However, Madam X defended their image as a form of empowerment and self-expression, challenging the male-dominated rock scene.

Production Team and Recording Studio

The album was produced by renowned musician and producer Rick Derringer, known for his work with artists like Edgar Winter and Steely Dan. His expertise helped shape the album's sound, ensuring a polished and powerful final product.

"We Reserve the Right" was recorded at the legendary Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles, a hub for rock and metal recording during that era. The studio's state-of-the-art equipment and experienced engineers contributed to the album's sonic quality.

Madam X, the iconic glam metal band from Detroit, carved a unique path in the rock scene of the 1980s. Formed in 1982 by sisters Maxine and Roxy Petrucci, the band quickly rose to prominence with their energetic live shows, catchy melodies, and a touch of female empowerment in a male-dominated genre.

Band History and Formation

The Petrucci sisters, Maxine on vocals and Roxy on drums, were the driving force behind Madam X. Joined by bassist Chris Doliber and guitarist Bret Kaiser, they solidified their lineup and unleashed their debut album, "We Reserve the Right," in 1984. The album was a commercial success, establishing the band as a rising star in the glam metal movement. Their music resonated with fans, blending hard rock riffs with melodic hooks and Maxine's powerful vocals.

Lineup Changes and Reunion

The band faced challenges with lineup changes throughout their career. Most notably, future Skid Row vocalist Sebastian Bach briefly joined Madam X, leaving a lasting impact on their sound and direction. Despite the setbacks, the Petrucci sisters persevered, demonstrating their resilience and passion for music. After disbanding in 1988, Madam X made a triumphant return in 2013, reuniting with their original lineup and reigniting their musical fire. This reunion was met with enthusiasm from fans, eager to witness the band's electrifying performances once again.