The 1999 comeback for 'Ratt', which surprisingly includes three original members 'Stephen Pearcy', 'Warren DeMartini' and 'Bobby Blotzer', Bass and backing vocals are taken care of by 'Robbie Crane'. The formula is pretty similar to earlier work, but less raw and uncompromising, in fact they play it a little safe at times. Vocally 'Stephen Pearcy' seems to struggle on some tracks and while his voice is still as distinctive as in the mid 80's it lacks the quality it did back then. The duel guitaring partnership that was so successful, is no longer together and although 'Warren DeMartini' does a fine job the album miss's his old sparing partner the late 'Robin Crosby'. Overall quite a respectable effort, it's not up to former glories but it does have some fine moments that could easily be overlooked.

The opening cut leaves me wondering what to expect, it's hardly classic 'Ratt' more of a mix of 'Badlands' and some 90's Indie group, not really my taste but not disastrous. Back in the realms of classic 'Ratt & Roll' is 'Live for Today', this would not sound amiss from one of their late 80's releases, although it's not as energetic as most of their material it's well into familiar territory. It all comes good though on the simplistic rocker 'Gave up Givin' Up', a quality plodder, which highlights an infectious chorus, sweet rhythm work and choice guitaring from 'Warren DeMartini'. 'We don't Believe' has plenty of 'Stones' influence, but 'Stephen Pearcy' doesn't really sound his best on this drawn out bluesy offering. Much better is 'Breakout' which starts off sounding like 'The Cult' and continues in strong fashion, with plenty of gutsy rhythm and strong fret work, lyrically it's no classic but it still makes for a solid cut. Following in fine form is 'Tug of War', an emotionally performed ballad come rocker which displays a cracking sing-a-long chorus. 'Dead Reckoning' is next up and holds a fine groove throughout, this is supported by great flowing harmonies and some of 'Stephen Pearcy's' best vocals. That was enjoyable but not as much so as the glorious 'Luv Sick', which exhibits really catchy guitar hooks, basic but enjoyable lyrics and a mesmerising groove all through- Good stuff. Less inspiring is the light-weight endeavour 'It ain't Easy', despite the fine guitar solo, it's pretty mediocre. It's back to the old school 'Ratt' through with the raunchy rocker 'All the Way', this is a decent ride, with strong lyrics, hearty harmonies and a nice 80's feel. The album finishes with the hot rocking 'So Good, So Fine', lyrically strong and excellently performed, makes for a worthy closing track.

Regrettably not another 'Out of the Cellar' but a decent offering, regrettably 'Stephen Pearcy' departed to follow other projects, and another reunion seems rather unlikely.