W.A.S.P.--The Crimson Idol

W.A.S.P.--The Crimson Idol (1992) Rating--8.7

Arena of Pleasure--RealAudio  Chainsaw Charlie--RealAudio

An excellent concept album, and simply head-and-shoulders above the band's sophomoric '80s efforts. A strong mix of slow and emotionally-tinged writing, intertwined with the former shock-rockers' heaviest material to date. Solid, bottom-heavy-but- caustic distortion, along the same lines as the latter-day Armored Saint. In all, a pleasant find, and an even nicer piece of metal work.
Fast songs dot this release, with almost every track packed with energy. The top highlights are "The Invisible Boy," "Arena of Pleasure," "Chainsaw Charlie," and "The Idol". But again---all stand out.
A bit of an added bonus is the totally melodic and almost ballad-esque "Hold on to My Heart," which woven into the storyline is pure power, and completely avoids being a "wimp out" tune. A beautiful track, and Blackie can actually sing!
Good stuff.
TRACK LIST: The Titanic Overture/The Invisible Boy/Arena of Pleasure/Chainsaw Charlie (Murders in the New Morgue)/The Gypsy Meets the Boy/Doctor Rockter/I Am One/The Idol/Hold on to my Heart/The Great Misconception of Me

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