The debut from 'Arcade' sees 'Stephen Pearcy' and 'Fred Coury' expanding and developing the sound of both their former groups 'Ratt' and 'Cinderella' and while well within the 'Hair / Sleaze' Metal genre, heavier than both former projects. Guitar work is courtesy of former 'Sea Hag's' 'Frankie Wilsex' and 'Donny Syracuse' while bass duties fall to 'Michael Andrews', although relative unknowns their contribution can't be overlooked. It's hard to believe this album dates from '93 when this style of music was so unpopular then, that said a quality album is a quality album regardless of when it was released.

First up is the raw and rugged rocker 'Dancing with the Angels', the slightly distorted approach suits 'Stephen Pearcy's' gritty vocals, while all being tied together by plenty of energetic fret and rhythm work to make this a strong opener. Better still in my opinion is the 'Ratt' reminiscent 'Nothin' to Lose', the grooving bass driven intro really hits the spot, while the big sing-a-long chorus works superbly for one of many top tracks. The fine run continues with the pulsating 'Calm Before the Storm' which is guaranteed to get your head swaying with it's glorious rhythm, this is further enhanced by decent lyrics and sweet guitar licks. The tempo falls for the exceptional ballad 'Cry No More', which sees 'Stephen Pearcy' turning in a superb performance- overall the song has a strong 'Kix' vibe. The pace is lifted with the hard rockin' 'Screamin' SOS', a lively uncompromising track, that while pretty simplistic is still effective. The raunchy stop start rhythm of 'Never Goin' Home' follows is decent form, while the 'Alice Cooper' suggestive 'Messed up World' is a pleasant journey from beginning to end. Brisker still is the 'Gun's N' Rose's' tinged 'All Shook Up' a top drawer energetic rocker, highlighting great riffs, driving rhythm and 'Pearcy's' sleazy vocals on top form. In stark contrast is the balladsy 'So Good… So Bad', which in my opinion doesn't work with 'Stephen Pearcy's' vocals and comes off pretty whiny despite a decent melody. It's back to the rockers again with slightly repetitive but enjoyable 'Livin' Dangerously', the mid track instrumental breaks the song up nicely for another high point. Next up is a short mystical instrumental titled 'Sons and Daughters', the acoustic guitar work is superb and the overall track has a great atmospheric feel. Last up is the disappointing 'Mother Blues' a shockingly sung, pure Blues number that just takes the edge of a very good album.

A very respectable debut that outdoes most of 'Cinderella's' work and much of 'Ratt's' later material. Regrettable this is a prime example of an album out of time, five years earlier and this would have gone multi platinum. If you like the work of 'Ratt', 'Cinderella' and 'Kix' you owe it to yourself to pick up a copy of this hidden gem and the succeeding album 'A/2'.