The first of the 'Big' albums for 'Accept', which sees them expanding on the prototype laid down on the impressive but slightly uneven 'Breaker'. In fact that's what sets this album above the predecessors- consistency, here 'Accept' deliver an unwavering release that not only is considered by many as the pinnacle of their careers, but a very influential album due to the opening Speed / Power / Thrash Metal classic 'Fast as a Shark'. Although the production betters previous releases it's still pretty rugged, especially compared to today's contemporaries and in all honesty does take the edge off a couple of tracks, that said 'Accept' aren't the 'Scorpions' so you know it's going to be a raw.

What can you say about the opening track 'Fast as a Shark', other than absolute classic, it starts off with a scratchy German folk music intro, until 'Udo's' screeching vocals assault your speakers for this thunderous, rip-roaring gem, which sports slashing guitars, relentless rhythm and blazing solos- what more could you want? Following in fine form is the hard rocking title track 'Restless and Wild', a lively galloping cut graced with the trademark 'Accept' gang chanted anthemic chorus. Slightly into 'Raven' territory is 'Ahead of the Pack', in fact I could imagine 'Mark Gallagher' singing this decent chugger and as with their early work this is an effective, albeit simplistic effort. Not quite so hell-bent is the AC/DC reminiscent 'Shake your Heads', not one of the best tracks present, but still a solid rocker again displaying the characteristic gang chanted chorus. The tempo falls for the mystical 'Neon Nights' a composition which definitely owes a nod to 'Judas Priest', that said this is still a well penned effort, very moody and atmospheric which sets it apart on this release. The second half opens with 'Get Ready' and as with the last track there's shades of 'Priest' here, all told doesn't flow as well it might, but still a decent affair. Improvements are made with 'Demon's Night' a gritty plodding rocker, that highlights fine fret work, while 'Flash Rockin' Man' is a brisk paced jewel, that's fuelled by a very catchy sing-a-long chorus. The pace falls for the AC/DC style 'Don't go Stealing My Soul Away' which sees a more Hard Rock approach rather than Metal and although not one of my choice cuts still a decent offering, although I'm not sure if 'Udo's' vocals totally suit. 'Restless and Wild' bows out with 'Princess of the Dawn' which in my opinion is a little underdeveloped, that said still an interesting mystical semi epic, which features a nice neo-classical outro.

This album is ahead of it's time and emphasises how important 'Accept' were to the fledgling 'Thrash' and 'Speed' metal bands of the time. As such I would have liked to have rated this higher, but a couple of songs are a tad underdeveloped and the production does hold it back.