{"title":"Rock Candy Records","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRock Candy Records is a US label based in New York City. With its *informative* and *authoritative* tone, this label has become a go-to destination for rock music enthusiasts. Known for their exceptional re-issues of classic albums, Rock Candy Records brings new life to iconic tracks from legendary artists. Their dedication to preserving the authenticity and integrity of these records sets them apart from other labels. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering the magic of rock music, Rock Candy Records offers an unparalleled collection that will satisfy your cravings for timeless tunes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs an esteemed label with *LC 72579* as its code, Rock Candy Records has earned a reputation for excellence in the industry. Their commitment to quality is evident in every release they put out. From carefully remastered sound to detailed liner notes, each album showcases the label's passion for bringing fans closer to the music they love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhile there may be other rock labels out there, none quite capture the essence of this genre like Rock Candy Records does. For those seeking UK re-issues specifically, make sure to check out their sister label *[l104775]* which specializes in delivering top-notch rock releases from across the pond.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"midnight-madness-2","title":"Midnight Madness","description":"\u003cp\u003eNight Ranger were one of the biggest success stories of the early 1980s, racking up hit singles and big selling albums during a time when the ‘hip’ music media had written off mainstream hard rock as little more than an annoying pest. Those people seemed to forget that memorable songs delivered with razor sharp riffs and passionate vocals can always ride roughshod over fashion and trends. Night Ranger’s debut album \u003ci\u003eDawn Patrol \u003c\/i\u003ehad set the scene for even bigger and better things to come, something they accomplished with ‘Midnight Madness’. Issued late in 1983, and produced once again by Pat Glasser (Giuffria, Refugee), the record harnessed a number of essential tracks, two of which would become central in the Night Ranger cannon. The first, ‘(You Can Still) Rock In America’ (with Glenn Hughes on backing vocals) was a call to arms, letting everyone know that the band were very much committed to melodic hard rock, the backbone upon which this album was crafted. The second was the power ballad ‘Sister Christian’ which gave them a song that would accelerate their popularity to heights previously unimagined, reaching the top 5 of the US singles charts. For Night Ranger, it was a life changing moment and it’s still a track that continues to be hugely popular to this day. \u003ci\u003eMidnight Madness\u003c\/i\u003e is a platinum album and it is truly one of the greatest records of the era.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50393430360395,"sku":"2047858","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Night_Ranger_-_Midnight_Madness_829ebfeb_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726416982"},{"product_id":"special-forces-4","title":"Special Forces","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen it comes to musical trends, Southern rock is one of the most enduring styles, and one that maintains a loyal and committed following. It is also very much wrapped up in the values of an era that has experienced both good and bad times, yet it continues to endure whilst other musical trends evaporated into thin air. 38 Special are not only survivors but also one of the few groups from the Southern rock genre that crossed musical barriers, producing not only hit albums but also mainstream hit singles. Fronted by Donnie Van Zant (little brother of Sknyrd frontman Ronnie) the band’s sound was immediately embraced by an audience keen to keep the music they love alive. The band’s early albums were staunchly Southern rock in sound but by this, their 5th album, melodic influences had widened their appeal. Not that they had abandoned their heritage, far from it, as ‘Special Forces’ is still very much a traditional vehicle for the rock sounds of the South. The only difference being that they were now notching up hit singles as well as hit albums. ‘Special Forces’, originally issued in 1982 (co-produced with Rodney Mills: Skynyrd, the Outlaws, Atlanta Rhythm Section) proved to be yet another career highlight, going on to reach the US top 10, achieving a platinum award and spawning, with the help of Suvivor’s Jim Peterik, the now classic hit single ‘Caught Up In You’. Arguably this album is the band’s best work.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50393435734347,"sku":"2047839","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/38_Special_-_Special_Forces_52a4d7cf_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726417093"},{"product_id":"wild-eyed-southern-boys-2","title":"Wild Eyed Southern Boys","description":"\u003cp\u003eAlthough the American marketplace was bursting with great Southern rock bands during the 1970s, many of them multi-platinum sellers such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Marshall Tucker Band and Molly Hatchet, there was always room for talented newcomers. For 38 Special this was manna from heaven, launching into a marketplace that was primed for regional music, shifting enormous quantities of records, and selling out big venues. Formed in Jacksonville, Florida, and fronted by Donnie Van Zant (brother of Skynyd’s Ronnie and Johnny), the band secured a deal with cool independent label A\u0026amp;M and carved out a solid reputation as one of the best Southern rock bands. But the early 1980s the movement had to face some harsh realities, as musical trends were rapidly changing. ‘Wild-Eyed Southern Boys’, their fourth album, produced by Rodney Mills (Skynyrd, the Outlaws) and originally issued in 1981, showcased the band engaged in a wider musical palette; one that paid handsome dividends and, ultimately, prolonged their commercial shelf life by some considerable time. Focussing on sharper, more hook-laden songs, the band’s sound was refined but not tampered with. They were still very much a gritty, guitar driven, down-home rock band, but with songs that could now be played on mainstream radio. Tracks like the title track, ‘Throw Out The Line’, ‘Bring It On’ and, with the help of Survivor’s Jim Peterik, the hit single ‘Hold On Loosely’ helped to propel the album into the US top 20 securing them a platinum award and a reputation second to none.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50393436291403,"sku":"2047835","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/38_Special_-_Wild_Eyed_Southern_Boys_ddc4f20a_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726417113"},{"product_id":"vixen-2","title":"Vixen","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen Vixen first appeared on the scene it’s not an exaggeration to say that a lot of rock fans were amazed by the fact that they were an all-female band. Heavy rock had been almost an entirely male dominated occupation, apart from a few notable exceptions, so Vixen were seen by a number of people as a curiosity. Surely they couldn’t be good enough to compete with the rock giants of the day? Well, think again! A potent four piece, the band originated in St Paul, Minnesota in the early ’80s. They moved their base of operation to Los Angeles in 1985, where they completed their line-up and attracted industry attention. With major management in place they quickly secured an enviable record deal with Capitol Records spin off label EMI Manhattan. Recording their album with a number of major producers, the band crafted an album of superb melodic hard rock. They also involved a number of more seasoned writers, including Richard Marx, Jeff Paris and Jon Butcher, lending even more credence to the results. Spearheaded by a trio of killer songs, including the Richard Marx\/Fee Waybill written first single ‘Edge Of A Broken Heart’, the album signalled a real and credible attempt to establish the band as contenders. ‘Cryin’’ and ‘I Want You To Rock Me’ added further proof - if proof were even necessary - to the theory, that Vixen could easily compete in any field of musicians. Their subsequent touring schedule further cemented their reputation and demonstrated their no nonsense, give it everything, approach to their music. In fact, the album was eventually certified gold – a fitting tribute to their talent and self-belief.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50407062208843,"sku":"2047874","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Vixen_-_Vixen_f7237e81_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726594089"},{"product_id":"the-ladder-3","title":"The Ladder","description":"\u003cp\u003eFully Remastered Audio \/ Climbing out of Philly in ‘86 to deliver their sole album of luscious sophisti-rock comes one of AOR’s best kept secrets \/ Produced by Joe \u0026amp; Lou Parente \/ Includes ‘Daydreams At Night’, ‘Double Shot Of Love’ ‘Time Soldier’ \/ Full colour booklet, 3,000 word essay with new in-depth interview. Sometimes a record appears out of nowhere which literally takes your breath away. So it is with The Ladder, a sensational five piece with virtually no pedigree to speak of, yet fully loaded with talent and a raging desire to make as big an impression as humanly possible. The fact that their sole album failed to make a commercial impact is neither here nor there but nearly 35 years after its release we are still talking about its enduring and timeless quality. Originating from Philadelphia, the band was formed from an ad hoc musical collective that had been involved with a number of different mostly non rock projects. The only member with a history was drummer Joe Franco formerly of the Good Rats and later to perform with Twisted Sister. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt the centre of this cabal were brother’s Lou and Joe Parente, both men responsible for most of the song writing. Leading the charge however was previously unknown vocalist Frank Mancano whose style and timbre was immediately compared to the likes of Lou Gramm, Joe Lynn Turner and Steve Perry. Signed to ATCO, the sister label of Atlantic Records, the album was issued in October 1986 and failed to cause even the smallest ripple of interest except - as we’ve learnt from other similar acts - small pockets of support in the European press. With no internet or social media at the time the odds were truly stacked against them. Despite infinitely strong songs such as ‘Time Soldier’, ‘Breakdown’, ‘Standin’ and the knock-out punch of ‘Double Shot Of Love’ the album is now considered one of the greatest lost treasures of the late eighties.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50407455490379,"sku":"2179455","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/The_Ladder_-_The_Ladder_18028201_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726597965"},{"product_id":"misunderstood-3","title":"Misunderstood","description":"\u003cp\u003eFully Remastered Audio \/ London-based hard rockers make significant strides with (final) album \/ Produced by Damon Lyon-Shaw (Status Quo, Golden Earring) \/ Includes, 'Seems So Easy', 'Crossed Line' \u0026amp; 'Searching The Clouds', plus 2 Bonus Tracks \/ 16 page full-colour booklet, 4,500 word essay with new interviews \u0026amp; enhanced artwork. When it comes to exploring the early years of the British hard rock scene there’s no better place to start that with London-based five-piece Strider. A staple of the live circuit, the band built a reputation for lean and mean, blues-based rock, securing a solid and faithful following throughout the UK and Europe. It was also a group that featured a couple of members who went on to be well-known after Strider; guitarist Gary Grainger who went on to play with Rod Stewart and drummer Tony Brock who would later join the Babys. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTwo individuals with a solid reputation and careers forged directly from the ashes of Strider. ‘Misunderstood’ is the band’s second album, recorded once again for GM Records the label helmed by Billy Gaff, manager of the Faces and Rod Stewart. Produced by Damon Lyon-Shaw, who had cut his teeth as a recording engineer for the Who and Status Quo, the album contains an impressive selection of tracks that showcase the appointment of new vocalist Rob Elliott, a man with a rich voice and a signature delivery. This time around the band focussed exclusively on self-penned material, writing, and executing a batch of songs that grabbed the listener by the scruff of the neck and commanded attention. Amongst all this goodness are stand out tracks such as ‘Searching The Clouds’, ‘Seems So Easy’, ‘Crossed Lines’ and the adventurous ‘Wing Tips’. Despite delivering such a robust album and touring with the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, the Faces and Status Quo, sadly and unfairly the band failed to make any commercial progress.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50407460536651,"sku":"2179451","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Strider_-_Misunderstood_2809923c_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726597992"},{"product_id":"exposed","title":"Exposed","description":"\u003cp\u003eFully Remastered Audio \/ London-based hard rockers make significant strides with debut album \/ Produced by Damon Lyon-Shaw (Status Quo, Golden Earring) \/ Includes, ‘Seems So Easy’, ‘Crossed Line’ \u0026amp; ‘Searching The Clouds’, plus 3 Bonus Tracks \/ 16 page full-colour booklet, 4,500 word essay with new interviews \u0026amp; enhanced artwork. British Rock during the early ’70s was, it’s fair to say, exploding with bright new talent. Strider were a great example of this ascendance, and crafted tough hip thrusting riffs and chest beating hooks in a style that was rapidly becoming the calling card of the era. Bands such as Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin and Free were dominating the charts but others including Strider weren’t very far behind. It was a golden era for rock, and everything was to play for. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFormed in 1971 under the handle of Rowan Oak, the band solidified their line-up, changed their name and enlisted the help and assistance of Marquee club booker Jack Barrie who guided them into the arms of other industry illuminati including Babe Ruth’s svengali Martin Saville and the newly formed GM records, a label run by Faces manager Billy Gaff. It was this cabal of heavy weight talent that steered the band in an upward direction including lengthy European tours with Rory Gallagher and Status Quo. Produced by Jimmy Horowitz (who was married to GM artist Leslie Duncan) ‘Exposed’ showcases a confidant and highly potent rock band with the emphasis on muscle and energy. Released in 1973 to much praise and excitement, the album is a revered part of the time when British hard rock was dominating the music world. Check out tracks such as ‘Esther’s Place’, ‘Ain’t Got No Love’, ‘Get Ready’ and ‘Straddle’ for three prime examples of a powerful and impressive band who could and should have gone on to bigger and better success.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50407462699339,"sku":"2179450","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Strider_-_Exposed_78c610bc_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726598016"},{"product_id":"welcome-to-the-ball","title":"Welcome To The Ball","description":"\u003cp\u003eFully Remastered Audio \/ Bay Area Power Metal quintet raze roofs with pulverising album \/ Co-Produced by Michael Rosen (Testament, Mordred, AFI) \u0026amp; Geoff Thorpe \/ Includes ‘Abandoned’, ‘Mastermind’ \u0026amp; ‘Children’  \/ 16 page full-colour booklet, 4,500 word essay with new interviews, enhanced artwork \u0026amp; previously unseen photos. The mid to late ’80s gave us a number of fine heavy metal bands, most of them echoing the thrash metal scene spearheaded by Metallica, Exodus, Death Angel and Megadeth. Vicious Rumors, in the scene from the start, were an act who gave the full-on thrash style a neat makeover, lacing the riffs with razor sharp emphasis and maximum melody. Vocalist Carl Albert was uniquely placed to exert a powerful influence on the band’s sophistication, with a voice that could easily push the band to new heights and help them achieve more commercial success. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFormed in the San Franciso Bay area in 1979 and producing two independent records (on the Shrapnel label) and one for Atlantic Records (also reissued on Rock Candy) the band’s chief protagonists by this point in their career were twin lead guitarists Geoff Thorpe (group founder) and Mark McGee; two players very much in sync with each other and their musical goals. Perfectly complimentary, their interlocking sound moved the music into areas not normally afforded such precision in this genre. They had, unknowingly, occupied an area of power metal, with a technique that provided a stepping stone for other bands who wanted to push the genre’s limits. Originally issued in 1991 on Atlantic Records ‘Welcome To The Ball’, their fourth album, included a collection of superlative tracks, featuring such heavy hitters as ‘Abandoned’, ‘Children’, ‘Mastermind’ and ‘When Love Comes Down’. Music filled with angst and a resolute determination to take no prisoners. Recorded in San Francisco, kudos must be given to co-producer Michael Rosen for his clear and concise work, allowing every instrument to resonate with enough clarity to provide maximum damage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50407464337739,"sku":"2179449","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Vicious_Rumors_-_Welcome_To_The_Ball_97db76c2_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726598042"},{"product_id":"offering-4","title":"Offering","description":"\u003cp\u003eFully Remastered Audio \/ Florida’s cleaver wielding quintet sharpen their sound for album #3 \/ Produced by Al Nalli (Blackfoot, Brownsville Station, MORE) \/ Includes ‘Now Or Never’, ‘Burn The City Down’ \u0026amp; ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Party In The Streets’ \/ 12 page full-colour booklet, 3,000 word essay \u0026amp; enhanced artwork The name Axe probably conjures up visions of a seething and full-on heavy metal band and, although there’s nothing wrong with that, this band are far more nuanced. In fact, the band’s music, whilst definitely hard rock, is imbued with accessible elements of melody and precision. The songs are well written and produced, with the apparent acknowledgement of a need to advance their craft towards a classy, perhaps more commercial, focal point. Guitarist and vocalist Bobby Bath formed the band in Gainsville, Florida during the late seventies.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Initially named Babyface, they mutated into Axe after a couple of years and signed to MCA, issuing two reasonably well received albums of pomp\/melodic rock before switching record label to Atco records and releasing ‘Offering’ in 1982. Produced by manager Al Nalli (well known for his association with Blackfoot), the record gave the band a new lease of life and attracted praise for its direct approach and concise song writing. It was also a record that found the band playing to bigger audiences in the USA, supporting the Scorpions, KISS and Judas Priest, whilst attracting unexpected airplay with songs such as ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Party In The Streets’ and ‘Now Or Never’. It also includes a superlative cover of the Montrose classic ‘I Got The Fire’, which manages to burn as brightly as the original. Dipping back into their more complex previous music, the six minute long ‘Silent Soldiers’ showcases the band in full-on pomp rock glory but with a much heavier edge than they had before.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50407465582923,"sku":"2179443","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Axe_-_Offering_19ba4631_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726598069"},{"product_id":"dawn-patrol","title":"Dawn Patrol","description":"\u003cp\u003eOne of the greatest rock bands to emerge during the early Eighties was San Francisco based Night Ranger. Somewhat surprisingly, however, their origins originated from a very different musical background, most notably as members of a large-scale soul-funk cabal called Rubicon (a unit that had links to Sly Stone) who recorded two now largely forgotten, albums. Members of this unit coalesced under the handle of Ranger, and later, Night Ranger. Night Ranger’s arsenal of formidable talent contained the twin lead guitar work of Brad Gillis and Jeff Watson and – unusually - two identifiable lead vocalists in bassist Jack Blades and drummer Kelly Keagy. It was this combination that afforded the band a unique sound, giving them an edge that distanced them from other similar sounding outfits. At one point, however, the band’s very existence was thrown into jeopardy when Brad Gillis was tapped to replace the late Randy Rhoads in Ozzy Osbourne’s Blizzard Of Oz. Fortunately this only turned out to be a temporary arrangement. Despite being turned down by every record company in the US, not once but twice, the band’s debut album\u003ci\u003e Dawn Patrol\u003c\/i\u003e, originally issued in 1982, on the newly-formed Boardwalk label, was an immediate critical and commercial success, and boasted a cache of supremely catchy tracks, led by the triple knockout blows of ‘Don’t Tell Me You Love Me’, ‘Sing Me Away’ and ‘At Night She Sleeps’. A finer debut album you will not find.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50443280023883,"sku":"2047857","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Night_Ranger_-_Dawn_Patrol_f9bed9c0_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727011928"},{"product_id":"pitea-kommun","title":"Pitea Kommun","description":"\u003cp\u003eUltra rare 1979 KBD-style punk rock from Piteå – a small town situated in the very north of Sweden. Rock Set are buzzing of small town boredom and fuck authority attitude. The name Rock Set was inspired by UK pubrockers Dr Feelgood’s Roxette -a few years before Per Gessle took the Roxette moniker to the top of the Billboard chart. “Piteå Kommun” never reached the Billboard chart but over time it has generated a cult following amongst punk rock aficionados all over the world. Original copies are nowadays changing hands for hundreds of dollars. A fact easily understood when hearing Rock Set’s perfect mixture of punk, mod and garage-rock.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the late fall of 2020 OTD traveled to Piteå in order to find the members of Rock Set. A license deal was made and in true OTD fashion the sound recordings were remastered and carefully restored. Many photos from the band members’ private photo albums are seen on the printed inner sleeve. Liner notes by Peter Kagerland. Turquoise vinyl.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"On The Dole Records","offers":[{"title":"Turquoise | 7\"","offer_id":50466176303435,"sku":"1111323","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/23d83939-41fd-42ad-88d6-bc169de8b518_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727307674"},{"product_id":"overnight-angels","title":"Overnight Angels","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpecial Deluxe Collector’s Edition \/ Fully Remastered Audio shaped from 24 bit digital technology \/ Includes ‘Justice Of The Peace’, Golden Opportunity’ \u0026amp; ‘Overnight Angels’ \/ 16 page full colour booklet – 4,000 word essay, enhanced artwork and new interviews. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIan Hunter is unquestionably amongst the elite of British rock. As the leader of Mott The Hoople his style, voice and song writing ability helped the band into the charts on both sides of the Atlantic and also secured him the respect and admiration of fellow musicians across the spectrum, from pop to rock. A gifted songwriter, he is compared to such names as Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlessed with the ability to pen melodic songs that contain hummable refrains and striking, often deeply revealing, lyrics, Hunter’s place in the pantheon of great singer songwriters has been secured… ‘All The Way From Memphis’, ‘Honaloochie Boogie’ and ‘Once Bitten, Twice Shy’. This was Ian’s third solo album post Mott The Hoople, recorded with the intent to silence critics that he’d gone ‘soft’ on his previous solo album. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnlisting the heavy-duty firepower of producer Roy Thomas Baker (Queen, Foreigner, Free) and recruiting new band members, including lauded guitarist Earl Slick, Foreigner drummer Dennis Elliott (Curly Smith actually plays on the album), Sparks member Peter Oxendale on keyboards and former Chicken Shack bassist Rob Rawlinson.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results are spectacular, conjuring up a variety of styles but always heavy via the robust production values of Baker and his engineer Gary Lyons. Recorded in Canada at Le Studio, Quebec and polished in London, the record contains a selection of classic now tracks, including ‘Justice Of The Peace’, ‘Wild ‘N’ Free’, ‘Golden Opportunity’ and ‘Overnight Angels’, all indicating that Hunter had shed another skin in a serious intent to impress not only his existing fan base but also to attract curious onlookers keeping tabs on his career development\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50504310292811,"sku":"1161542","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/0497d86f-2222-4183-8eda-3fe3eb478828_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727803392"},{"product_id":"screw-it","title":"Screw It","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpecial Deluxe Collector’s Edition \/ Fully Remastered Audio shaped from 24 bit digital technology \/ Includes ‘Monkey Business’, ‘Don’t Blame it On Love’ and ‘Crazy Nites’ \/ 16-page full colour booklet – 4,000 word essay, enhanced artwork and new interviews. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBy the end of the ’80s the hard rock scene was bursting with a number of successful acts spearheaded by the likes of Guns N’ Roses, Skid Row, Warrant, Slaughter and Winger. Originating from New York, Danger Danger seemed poised to capitalise on this wave, especially after scoring success with their-self titled debut album, which broke into the US album charts and earned them gold status and extensive MTV airplay. All eyes were therefore on the release of their second album \u003ci\u003eScrew It!\u003c\/i\u003e, which was issued in October 1991. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever, there was a problem. The music scene had changed considerably, leaving melodic, catchy, pop rock bands to battle over tougher terrain as the rise of grunge suddenly reared its all-conquering head. This rendered bands like Danger Danger out 8 of synch with the prevailing winds.This impressive five-piece had returned to the studio earlier in ’91 armed with another collection of insanely catchy songs, with a mind set to bulldoze their way through any tough resistance. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe fact of the matter was they did their job in delivering an album brimming with potential but sadly with the lack of support from their label, radio and MTV, all switching allegiance at this point to the emerging new music scene, the band were left battling into an impossible to overcome headwind. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProduced by the band with Dutch studio wizard Erwin Musper (Metallica, Scorpions) and recorded in the Netherlands and Florida, the record contains a selection of top-notch tracks, including ‘Don’t Blame It On Love’, ‘Crazy Nites’, ‘Beat The Bullet’ and not forgetting ‘Monkey Business’, all of which in another time and place might well have continued their upward momentum\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50504311112011,"sku":"1161541","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/df26c331-b167-4e78-bd05-434a4131b0f7_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727803416"},{"product_id":"useless-man","title":"Useless Man","description":"\u003cp\u003e1992: Minty came together around Leigh to present ‘actions’ on the fringes of music, art, and politics and to explode (sometimes literally) in the face of the growing celebrity culture. The band represented those marginalised through sexuality and delighted to challenge all that which usurps the established order. Word of their live shows spread fast, Leigh was a mainstream figure back then and Minty were becoming notorious for what were considered outrageous and disgraceful performances. At a time just before the internet, scandalous talk and sensational press articles brought the band to the attention of the authorities. The UK’s draconian, indecency and public licensing laws soon led to bans, legal action and police raids. Every show opened with ‘Useless Man’ - an amazing unapologetic, foul mouthed, pro-femme, pro-sex, pro-queer club anthem with lyrics made to shock and a playful homage to a Pepsi Cola ad byline from the 70’s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUseless Man (The Grid Mix) 2. Useless man (Boy George \u0026amp; Kinky Roland Latex drips remix) 3. Useless Man (Starcluster Remix) 4. Useless Man (Original mix)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e","brand":"Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"Black | 12\"","offer_id":50507265835339,"sku":"1093963","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/dad702e0-4082-4666-8ef7-bf60336418bc_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727845019"},{"product_id":"street-talk","title":"Street Talk","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe could argue all day long about who the 6 best rock singer is\/was… and there are a few great contenders when it comes to melodic rock or AOR, but at the top of most people’s list is Steve Perry. The former Journey frontman shot to fame when he fronted the band on their 1978 album ‘Infinity’ and eventually they changed from jazz rock curios to a multi-platinum selling band with the albums ‘Escape’ and ‘Frontiers’, that included such smash hit singles as ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’, ‘Who’s Crying Now’, ‘Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)’, ‘Faithfully’ and ‘Send Her My Love’. Of course, the icing on the cake was undoubtedly the vocal performance of Steve Perry, whose incredible range and tone set the band apart from the competition. It was hardly surprising then to see him launch a solo career with this album ‘Street Talk’, released in 1984, a record that very much followed the Journey blueprint and was actually named in recognition of his first band Alien Project, who were nearly called Street Talk. The album sold in excess of 2 million copies, spawning the #3 hit single ‘Oh Sherrie’ and setting the path for a solo career alongside Journey. As it turned out Journey went on hiatus in 1987 after the release of ‘Raised On Radio’ the previous year. Perry released his second solo album ‘For The Love Of Strange Medicine’ in 1994 but the band reunited in `96 and released ‘Trial By Fire’, Journey’s final album with Perry on lead vocals. What we have with ‘Street Talk’ is a record that no Journey fan will fail to connect with; his voice, the great songs and the emotional power, leave us with no doubt as to his brilliance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50823607353675,"sku":"2229146","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Steve_Perry_-_Street_Talk_5d5b6e45_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731474570"},{"product_id":"living-on-the-edge-2","title":"Living On The Edge","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpecial Deluxe Collector’s Edition \/ Fully Remastered Audio shaped from 24 bit digital technology \/ Including Living On the Edge, Fantasy of Love and Carry On \/ 12- page full colour booklet – 3,000-word essay, enhanced artwork, and new interviews. With their self-titled debut album generating quite a stir on the hard rock scene, Axe then delivered their glorious second album ‘Living On The Edge’ another Melodic Pomp Rock masterpiece for the MCA\/CURB label. Produced by Tony Reale, a man whose credits encompassed a wide variety of acts, from pop music to edgier rock, the sound drew heavily from the melodic rock sounds of the time and is blessed with pin-point vocal harmonies and lavish arrangements. It was the sound of an exciting new rock act pushing their way to the front of the pack, looking to capitalise on their hunger and demonstrating great compositional skills. Strange then that the label decided to issue a cover song as the album’s first track; ‘I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)’ originally cut by the Four Tops. It was clear that MCA had very little understanding of the band’s fan base, preferring instead to pitch them as a pop outfit without defining their real style. The album’s final song ‘For A Little While’ is a far more representative track, blending melody and power with a well-developed Pomp Rock sheen. In common with many other acts from this era, the behind-the-scenes machinations of the business was about to rear its ugly head. Sadly, for Axe, their label president was replaced, and the band were let go. But fortunately, there was a light at the end of the tunnel when they signed to ATCO records and begun a new chapter in their career, with the recording of ‘Offering’ also reissued by Rock Candy Records\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50823609745739,"sku":"2229104","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Axe_-_Living_On_The_Edge_e96cb7b3_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731474589"},{"product_id":"axe","title":"Axe","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpecial Deluxe Collector’s Edition \/ Fully Remastered Audio shaped from 24 bit digital technology \/ Includes Back on the Streets, Life’s Just an Illusion and Forever \/ 16- page full colour booklet – 3,000-word essay, enhanced artwork, and new interviews. Back in the late 70’s melodic hard rock was blossoming with bands such as Foreigner, Journey and Styx forging a righteous path to gold and glory. Axe were no exception, one of many acts looking to emulate the commercial trajectory of these platinum trailblazers and make the most of what the burgeoning market had to offer. Band leader Bobby Barth took control of the act demonstrating vision and ambition. But the band at this point had already been through the ringer, having recorded an album, as Babyface, for the independent Chicago label ASI but were left with a bitter aftertaste when the producer led project didn’t represent the band’s style or ambition. After that they decided to move location upping sticks from Colorado to Gainsville, Florida where they eventually attracted the attention of MCA and in particularly a new affiliated label CURB Records, to whom they eventually signed. The label viewed Axe as a melodic rival to the big acts of the day and promptly packed them off to Los Angeles where they crafted an album of wholesome melodic\/pomp rock that was a vast improvement on their previous incarnation as Babyface. Just check out the tracks ‘Life’s Just An Illusion’, ‘Forever’, ‘Doin’ The Best That I Can’ and the epic ‘Battles’ for proof that Axe were onto something rather 7 special.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50823818412363,"sku":"2229102","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Axe_-_Axe_01f79867_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731476845"},{"product_id":"back-down-to-earth","title":"Back Down To Earth","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpecial Deluxe Collector’s Edition \/ Fully Remastered Audio shaped from 24 bit digital technology \/ Includes ‘Back Down To Earth,’ Suicide and Gods and Kings \/ Five Live bonus tracks \/ 12-page full colour booklet – 3,000-word essay, enhanced artwork, and new interviews – Canadian rockers Zon arrived on to the scene with a sensational debut album, ‘Astral Projector’, a record bursting with the finest combination of pomp rock and progressive AOR. For many it was a high point of the genre so it’s 1979 follow up, ‘Back Down To Earth’, was highly anticipated with most fans of the band expecting great things…and they weren’t disappointed. Zon’s carefully executed balance of pomp and prog ushered in yet another full throttle blast of melodic rock with sophisticated vocal harmonies and striking arrangements, especially in the keyboard department. Their deft blend of soothing hard rock and memorable melodies were immediately compared to Styx, Aviary and Trillion. Produced by Don Lorusso (who masterminded the previous album) - ably assisted by co-producer Dale Jacobs - the album struck a chord with their fan base who warmed to the surging pomp-tastic arrangements, solid songwriting, and no stone unturned quest for perfection. Whilst the rewards weren’t commercially spectacular, the band’s intentions were made crystal clear, elevating the record and the group to a new level of accomplishment. Issued on Epic records, the cultured five piece received an enthusiastic push for the album delivered on several counts: blockbusting heavy rock in ‘Circus’, killer progressive pomp in ‘As Seasons Change’, and ‘Gods And Kings’ - another complex masterpiece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50823820247371,"sku":"2229134","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Zon_-_Back_Down_To_Earth_faf13241_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731476864"},{"product_id":"company-of-wolves","title":"Company Of Wolves","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpecial Deluxe Collector’s Edition \/ Fully Remastered Audio shaped from 24 bit digital technology \/ Includes Call Of The Wild, The Distance and Hanging By A Thread \/ 16- page full colour booklet – 3,500-word essay, enhanced artwork, and new interviews – It has been said that music is a cruel mistress, as Company of Wolves found out to their cost. Like many others of a similar ilk, they were the victims of stylistic musical changes and as the sands of time shifted beneath their cowboy boots, they quickly found out that being a damn fine rock band would be no protection to the evolution of time and cultural shifts. It would be a rude awakening to the members and to their genre in general. Formed in NYC during the late ’80s the band was built around the sharpsuited leadership of frontman Kyf Brewer, who quickly found support in fellow band members, brothers bassist John Conte and guitarist Steve Conte. Also throwing his hat in the ring was renowned drummer Frankie LaRocka, giving the unit an established vibe and attracting an industry buzz that soon rewarded them with a significant major label deal with industry powerhouse Mercury Records. It was an auspicious start, and all eyes were on the quartet to deliver a startling album. Produced by Jeff Glixman (Georgia Satellites) and recorded in Austin, Texas, the band crafted one of the era’s most interesting records and received the sort of promotional push that would be the envy of many. They were even flown to Scotland to film their first video ‘Call Of The Wild’, at a remote Highland castle. All was looking well, but the fickle nature of the business soon pulled the rug from under their feet when Grunge changed the musical landscape leaving Company Of Wolves abandoned and alone amidst the stylistic sea change. In another universe, they should have received a helping hand to fame and fortune but sadly despite enthusiastic critical applause they were unable to weather the choppy seas and fight another day.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50823823688011,"sku":"2229112","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Company_Of_Wolves_-_COT_b9368ab3_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731476883"},{"product_id":"prisoners-in-paradise","title":"Prisoners In Paradise","description":"\u003cp\u003eSpecial Deluxe Collector’s Edition \/ Fully Remastered Audio shaped from 24 bit digital technology \/ Produced By Beau Hill \/ 16- page full colour booklet – 4,000-word essay, enhanced artwork, and new interviews – There are few rock bands that have exploded into mass consciousness as quickly as Europe, a Swedish group that made their global mark in the mid ’80s. Nobody it seemed was immune to the quirky charm of the worldwide smash ‘The Final Countdown’ which has become something of a hard rock standard. For Europe the success was life changing but it didn’t dampen their continuing desire to create and impress. ‘Prisoners In Paradise’ was their fifth album and it was recorded in Los Angeles with ‘man of the moment’ Beau Hill (RATT, Winger, Warrant). Hill and the band presented their sound in slightly tougher form, suggesting that they were still looking to shake off their poppier direction and move closer to an early seventies hard rock style. That the band could write great songs was never in any doubt, but this time around they were encouraged to co-write with a few tried and tested songsmiths, such as Eric Martin (Mr. Big), Nick Graham (Cheap Trick) and Jim Valance (Bryan Adams). Despite a somewhat lacklustre commercial response, in large part attributable to the bad timing of the release during the rise of grunge, the album contains superb tracks, including the title track, ‘Bad Blood’, ‘Seventh Sign’ and ‘Little Bit Of Lovin’’, indicating that the band had a point to prove and the vision to achieve it with. Looking back with hindsight it was clear where Europe’s real, hard rock, musical aspirations lay, something that would come to the fore in their career resurrection during the early 21st Century\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50823824343371,"sku":"2229119","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Prisoners_In_Paradise_57e2c28e_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731476901"},{"product_id":"yesterday-and-today-oq","title":"Yesterday and Today","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere are certain records and bands that send a message to those who are following a scene with a keen eye on the big prize. One such act was Yesterday and Today who burst out of the San Francisco Bay scene like an erupting volcano, knocking the competition sideways with a blitzkrieg of high energy and hard rocking determination. There’s no question that this band had it all in the palm of their hand, squeezing molten metal from largely hard-core ingredients, shocking those in the know that such a live wire unit could’ve have appeared out of the normally sedate West Coast scene. With the band name (a nod to The Beatles) and geographical location indicating a far more relaxed style of music it was a major shock to find out that the band were a raging hard rock outfit hell bent on ripping up the rule book, crafting a vicious slice of electric noise that soon found an underground audience. With an ear for a good tune and the appropriate energy to thrust their noise to every corner of the bay area, it didn’t take long for heads to turn. Signed to the independent London label they delivered tracks such as ‘Animal Woman,’ ‘Earthshaker,’ ‘Fast Ladies (Very Slow Gin),’ ‘Game Playing Woman’ and the exquisite ‘Beautiful Dreamer,’ leaving everyone convinced that this was an act going places. Produced by co-manager Louis Bramy (a partner of local legend Herbie Herbert). Getting the band out playing live was the order of the day and the band rolled out their show from San Francisco with new all girl band The Runaways acting as support. Certainly, the package attracted attention and helped to set them up for their second album ‘Struck Down’\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":51741041164619,"sku":"R1745-1136","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Yesterday_Today-ST.jpg?v=1745938258"},{"product_id":"struck-down-fz","title":"Struck Down","description":"\u003cp\u003eHaving already established themselves with a warmly received debut album and a buzzing local following, Yesterday \u0026amp; Today set about focussing on a follow-up opus, ‘Struck Down’, a release that firmly established them as stars of the San Franciso Bay scene. In the big scheme of things, however, the band were still a small blip on the radar trying to get some traction in a scene that was rapidly expanding to accommodate several up-and-coming acts. However, with serious commitment and a stack of new songs it soon became apparent that they could easily get around the problem by just focusing on the job in hand and playing shows to a loud and devoted audience. For ‘Struck Down’ they enlisted the production guidance of Jimmy Robinson, a man that was well versed in the art of heavy rock having worked in L.A.’s influential Record Plant studio. Robinson gave the band a more direct sound, utilizing a bigger and better vibe, and the material, although not radically different from their previous excursion made use of techniques such as flanging and phase shifting. It brought an expanded palette, giving the sound a contemporary sheen yet harnessing all the heft of their original thunder. The new approach also extended to the shape and form of the new songs. Tracks such as ‘Pleasure In My Heart’, ‘I’m Lost’, the title track ‘Struck Down’ and ‘Stargazer (Round \u0026amp; Round)’ all showing a major advancement in compositional skill and sonic tapestry. This all comes of course wrapped up in the whirlwind vocals of Dave Meniketti, a man whose voice could knock down brick walls and scale mountains. Best of all though Is the sheer passion displayed in the band’s desire to lift the band to greater heights. Of course, it would be a few good years before - with a slight name change - Y\u0026amp;T could propel themselves into the premiere league of hard rock outfits.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":51741041328459,"sku":"R0774-5259","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/YesterdayandToday-StruckDown.jpg?v=1745938363"},{"product_id":"live-rs","title":"Live","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe At Rock Candy always have a special place in our hearts for Mother’s Finest. One of the most formidable acts on the scene during the ’70s, they trail-blazed a unique path between funk and crushing hard rock. Sure many acts attempted this explosive combination at the time, from Sly \u0026amp; The Family Stone to Parliament-Funkadelic, but Mother’s Finest always made the most noise live, coming on like Led Zeppelin jamming with Aerosmith. Fronted by the supreme vocals of Joyce ‘Baby Jean’ Kennedy, with constant support from the irrepressible Glenn ‘Doc’ Murdock, the band’s album material stretched from cool as cucumber soul to pummelling heavy rock and all points in between. The only drawback was that record companies could not get their head around how to promote the band, leaving them caught between a rock and a hard place. Amazingly, despite being somewhat affected by this lack of industry understanding, they attracted a devoted audience not only in the USA but also in Europe, developing their career throughout the subsequent decades. Hats off to long standing guitarist Gary ‘Moses Mo’ Moore whose blistering fretwork ignites the songs brilliantly. Recorded in 1979, this album reinforced the band’s command of the live environment and showcased their clear cut ability to engage an audience with their full on dedication and delivery. We must applaud this band as one of the greatest acts of all-time.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":51741041688907,"sku":"R6992-0659","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/MothersFinest-LiveCANDY490.jpg?v=1745938744"},{"product_id":"endangered-species-2","title":"Endangered Species","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMoving forward to their second album the pressure was truly on White Wolf to produce results, especially a hit single. Having paid their dues over the years playing numerous clubs across Canada, their high-class musicianship was in no doubt but, as might have been reasonably expected, RCA records wanted a return on the time and money spent on the debut album which led to a reluctance to give a green light until they heard a ‘hit’. Dutifully the band buckled down and spent the summer of 1985 writing alone and with collaborators. Golden Earring producer Shell Shellekens was hired to oversee the recordings, and the band flew to Holland to commence work at his recording studio. Along with the songs readied for the album, RCA suggested the band record a cover of UK band Magnum's 'Just Like An Arrow', which had been a hit in Europe. When the album was finished RCA were delighted with the results and the band were all set to play dates with Kim Mitchell (of Max Webster), and were told they may get dates with AC\/DC and Van Halen... but the day they turned up to their tour bus their manager told them RCA were in negotiations to be bought by another company and all expenditure on signed bands would be frozen!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eEndangered Species \u003c\/em\u003ewas eventually released, but the band struggled to survive financially, and although they were offered a third album by RCA, once everything was settled, the band were eager to promote\u003cem\u003e Endangered Species\u003c\/em\u003e as they believed in it, but after an impasse RCA eventually dropped the band. Now listening back it’s easy to hear why the band was so invested in this record because it’s a smooth and classy slice of grade-A hard rock very much fit for purpose at that time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":57662483497291,"sku":"R7718-7765","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/WhiteWolf-Endangered.jpg?v=1782228762"},{"product_id":"standing-alone","title":"Standing Alone","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Canadian band that would become White Wolf paid their dues for many years on the club circuit: initially under the handle of Farmer, then Slamm, with a change to Warrior in 1981. By 1983 they took a risk and borrowed a large amount of money from their bassist's parents to create a high-end demo to shop for a deal. That demo made its way to RCA in New York, and the band got the recording contract they had so long wanted and needed. After pulling together what they felt was a superior selection of songs, earmarked for their debut album, they started to feel that the name Warrior didn't represent their sound and the change was then made to White Wolf. Recording their debut album ‘Standing Alone’ (produced by Danny Lowe and Jack Richardson) which received a good amount of airplay in Canada and in certain places in the US like Cleveland, Philadelphia and New York.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSadly, an administrative error with visas left the band unable to play a smattering of US shows which had been booked. However, they eventually made it to the US and played various gigs, including dates in Texas with Australian rockers Angel City. After a handful of gigs back at home in Canada plans were made to record a follow-up album, so the pressure was back on.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReleased at the end of 1984\u003cem\u003e Standing Alone \u003c\/em\u003e- by today's standards - sold well, and it may only have been the cancelled dates and the lack of a long tour with a major band that held them back. Packed out with several great songs and a, punchy production, the future was set for the follow-up album E\u003cem\u003endangered Species\u003c\/em\u003e, Both albums stand tall as a fine testament to a band that shone brightly and didn't receive the attention they fully deserved at the time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":57662513217867,"sku":"R0573-5282","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/WhiteWolf-StandingAlone.jpg?v=1782229095"},{"product_id":"between-the-lines-1","title":"Between The Lines","description":"\u003cp\u003eLooking back through the back pages of rock history we find a few bands with the name Spider\/the Spiders, but the Spider that was based in New York in the '80s was different to all of the others as they had a melodic pop rock sound that, despite their lack of commercial success as a band, led later on to a very fruitful songwriting career for band member and keyboard player Holly Knight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe roots of the band started growing in South Africa where guitarist Keith Lentin, drummer Anton Fig and vocalist Amanda Blue honed their chops and forged a musical bond that brought them back together again in Boston where Fig had gone to attend music college. Before this reunion Amanda and Keith had spent time in England because she had a contract as a solo artist with Warner Bros. To make financial ends meet Amanda even worked in a fish and chip shop in London! Once Fig moved to New York to join a band named Topaz, Amanda and Keith soon followed. At that point fate brought them together with Holly Knight and bassist Jimmy Lowell. And in '78 Fig was hired to play drums on the first Ace Frehley solo album, connecting him to KISS in a way that was to continue in the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOnce KISS manager Bill Aucoin became involved, and Holly managed to get the band's demo tape to famous songwriter Mike Chapman at an industry party, the pieces were all falling into place and they were signed to Mike Chapman and Nicky Chinn's new record label Dreamland. But despite some great songs, that were covered by many artists later, the album failed sell in big numbers and the band focused on their follow-up. Both Spider albums are fine offerings of melodic pop rock that we highly recommend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":57662534943051,"sku":"R6460-3638","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Spider-BetweenTheLines.jpg?v=1782229478"},{"product_id":"spider","title":"Spider","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOnce South African musician’s guitarist Keith Lentin, drummer Anton Fig and singer Amanda Blue ended up in New York they got together with bassist Jimmy Lowell and keyboardist Holly Knight. Initially called Siren, the change to Spider was made and, thanks to a lucky meeting between Holly Knight and famous songwriter Mike Chapman at an industry party, they ended up signed to Mike Chapman and his songwriting partner Nicky Chinn's record label Dreamland. Another stroke of luck occurred when drummer Anton Fig was asked to play on Ace Frehley's first solo album, a connection to KISS that continued for him, including the fact that their manager Bill Aucoin became Spider's manager.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTheir first album came out in 1980, and despite selling in numbers that today would be viewed as very healthy (150,000), the chart placing (#130) was a disappointment in those heady days of huge album sales, and they went back to the studio to create 'Between the Lines'. Clearly under pressure to produce a big hit single, Holly wrote 'Better Be Good to Me' with Mike Chapman, an obvious hit it seemed. In fact, it was later a huge hit for Tina Turner but sadly not for Spider. Amazingly, despite a promotional visit to Europe and some dates with Alice Cooper and The Joe Perry Project, this album didn't fare as well as the debut and eventually Holly left the band to focus on songwriting with Mike Chapman (writing 'Love Is A Battlefield' a hit for Pat Benatar, and the massive hit 'The Best' for Tina Turner). Spider without Holly continued as Shanghai but the two Spider albums can now be appreciated and seen in a positive way as glorious AOR\/pop rock offerings that really should have put the band in a much stronger position leading to greater recognition at the time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rock Candy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":57662547788107,"sku":"R2523-2357","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Spider-Spider.jpg?v=1782229681"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/collections\/test_b7f6c263_thumbnail_4096_96d33ef0-6573-4574-b2f4-996566386091.jpg?v=1726416960","url":"https:\/\/shop.roughtrade.com\/collections\/rock-candy-records.oembed","provider":"Rough Trade","version":"1.0","type":"link"}