Def Leppard--Hysteria

Def Leppard--Hysteria (1987/Mercury) Rating--8.7 **U.S. Sales Certification--Multi-Platinum 12**

Back during the '80s metal scene when bands were pumping out an album every year or so, a four-year layoff between offerings seemed an eternity. Such was the case with Def Leppard, and the hiatus between 'Pyromania' and 'Hysteria'. Add in the factor of 'Pyromania's' huge success, and it was quite a soap-opera environment. Even before the tragic accident that took drummer Rick Allen's arm, rumors of breakups and the sort were abounding. However, the day finally arrived when 'Hysteria' hit the shelves, and it immediately rocketed up the Billboard charts.
The few years seemed to have robbed the band of its crunchy Marshall-driven distortion base, as there is more overall treble to the songs. However, while 'Hysteria' is certainly different than the sound of before, it is still an extremely strong album in its own light. The great vocal layerings continue (and even improve), and the songwriting talents are top-notch.
Many fans were initially disappointed by the sound and direction that the Leps chose for this disc (me included), but in hindsight this material is quite possibly their strongest testament to their own musical growth and maturity as a band. Things would certainly start sliding downhill from here...
"Women" was a somewhat odd choice for a first single, as while a decent and interesting track, there's not much flow to it. Not the first impression many were hoping for, I suppose. And speaking of singles... this disc had six of 'em!!
The smooth "Animal" still grabs some AOR airplay even today, and the heavier distortion frame of "Pour Some Sugar On Me" may have been the track to truly fuel this disc's stay on the charts.
Two tremendous ballads are held within--"Hysteria" and "Love Bites". Both crackle with emotion, and showcase the best of the band's lighter side. Numerous other songs are good listens: "Rocket," "Armageddon It," "Gods of War," "Excitable," and "Love and Affection".
TRACK LIST: Women/Rocket/Animal/Love Bites/Pour Some Sugar on Me/Armageddon It/Gods of War/Don't Shoot Shotgun/Run Riot/Hysteria/Excitable/Love and Affection

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