PINK CREAM 69 - GAMES PEOPLE PLAY 12" Vinyl LP Album

It's 1993. Grunge's flannel-clad fist had pummeled the glam metal scene into submission. Hairspray and spandex were out. Angst and apathy were in. But amidst this sonic sea change, a German band named PINK CREAM 69 dared to release a record that defied the prevailing trends. That record was "Games People Play".

PINK CREAM 69 weren't newcomers. Formed in 1987, they'd already carved a niche for themselves in Europe with their brand of melodic hard rock. But "Games People Play" was a statement. It was a defiant middle finger to the musical zeitgeist. A glorious throwback to an era when guitar solos soared, vocals soared even higher, and songs weren't afraid to be, well, songs.

Produced by the legendary Reinhold Mack (known for his work with Queen and Electric Light Orchestra), the album was recorded at Karo Musikstudioin Brackel, Germany. Mack's touch is evident throughout. The production is crisp, clear, and powerful. It gives the band's sound a muscularity and depth that perfectly complements their songwriting.

And what songwriting it is! From the opening riff of the title track, it's clear that PINK CREAM 69 mean business. Andi Deris' vocals are a force of nature. He effortlessly shifts from a soulful croon to a full-throated roar. The twin guitar attack of Alfred Koffler and Andreas Eckert is a joy to behold. They trade licks with a fire and passion that's all too rare in an era dominated by down-tuned dirges.

The album isn't afraid to explore different shades of hard rock. "Face in the Mirror" is a driving rocker with a killer chorus. "Way Down" is a bluesy ballad that showcases Deris' vocal range. "Keep Your Eye on the Twisted" is a riff-heavy stomper that'll get your head banging. And "Somedays I Sail" is a majestic power ballad that wouldn't sound out of place on a Journey album.

Of course, "Games People Play" wasn't without its controversies. Some critics dismissed it as a relic of a bygone era. Others accused the band of being out of touch with the times. But PINK CREAM 69 didn't care. They were making the music they wanted to make, and they were damn good at it.