EXCESS - MELTING POINT 12" vinyl LP Album

Released in 1986, Excess' "Melting Point" album stands as a testament to the thriving heavy metal scene that emerged in France during the 1980s. While not as widely recognized as their American or British counterparts, French heavy metal bands like Excess carved out a unique sound and contributed to the global metal landscape.

Historical Context and Genre

"Melting Point" arrived at a time when heavy metal was experiencing a global boom. While the US and UK were dominating the scene, European countries like France were also developing their own unique metal styles. Excess drew inspiration from both the classic heavy metal of the 70s and the emerging glam metal scene of the 80s.

The album's sound is characterized by powerful vocals, melodic guitar riffs, and driving rhythms. While firmly rooted in traditional heavy metal, the band incorporated elements of hard rock and even hints of AOR, creating a sound that was both familiar and distinctive.

Musical Exploration

"Melting Point" showcases Excess' musical versatility. Tracks like "Foreign Lands" and "Rough Edge" are classic heavy metal anthems, while "Glamour Girl" and "Burning the Night Away" lean towards a more melodic, hard rock approach. The album's closing track, "The Game," is a sprawling epic that demonstrates the band's songwriting prowess.

Lyrically, the album explores themes of personal struggle, societal issues, and the rock and roll lifestyle. The lyrics are often introspective and thought-provoking, adding another layer of depth to the music.

Production and Recording

The album was recorded at Studio du Chesnay, a well-known recording facility in France. The production team, led by Renaud Hantson, captured the band's raw energy while ensuring a polished sound that met the standards of the time.