Steel Panthers are well known for their lewd lyrics and comedy, there’s always something within their songs that gives you a chuckle, however, they aren’t just humorous, they are very accomplished musicians. This is evident in their latest album, “On The Prowl” due for release on February 24th. The album cover is reminiscent of 80’s glam rock, it really captures the feel of Steel Panther’s latest offering.
Putting aside the lyrical content for a moment, the album offers catchy riffs and some very solid rock songs including a rock ballad “On Your Instagram”. With tracks such as “Is My Dick Enough”, “Magical Vagina” and “Friends with Benefits”, Steel Panther have thrown in all the sleaze of 80’s glam rock that they could muster for this album.
“Friends with Benefits” is my pick off this album, the opening riff is heavy enough to grab your attention, the verses have fun lyrics which made me laugh and the chorus is catchy. The thing that really caught me though was the solo, it was impressive and classy. Classy would not usually be a word associated with this band, they’re deliberately uncouth and filthy, and with a number of successful albums and a huge global following, it’s working for them.
“1987” had the most clever lyrics of all the songs, mentioning bands from the 80s with a witty twist, paying homage to the bands who rose up in the glam era of rock and metal and to the ultimate time of sex, drugs and rock n roll. This song feels a little less about joking around and a little more ‘heart on sleeve’, particularly the vocal delivery, it just had that something extra.
None of the tracks on the album is lacking except maybe in variety, personally, I was not riveted. I do feel that Steel Panther focuses a lot of their energy on pushing the boundaries of smut, and whilst it is funny, it seems a pity that the music at times feels secondary.
There’s plenty of evidence throughout that the band can write mean riffs and catchy anthems, and I would love to see them using a bit more subtlety and innuendo lyrically and adding some variation to the formula of the songs. After a while, it can feel a little carbon copy. In saying that, they’re still experiencing immense popularity, and their tried and true formula continues to pay off for them.
I am actually surprised, in the current climate of cancel culture, that there hasn’t been more attention on the band and some of their songs, they really do walk the tightrope in that regard. One thing that I do have to give Steel Panther huge credit for is their live performances. I caught them live a number of times at festivals overseas, and they were a lot of fun. I was left with one of their songs stuck in my head every time. They know how to play to a crowd, they’re over the top, and they bring the party.
If you are a big Steel Panther fan, you definitely have to check out this album. It delivers the laughs and the rock riffs to keep any fan happy.
Recommended for fans of Steel Panther and glam rock.
Steel Panther: Facebook
Release Year: 2023
Label: Steel Panther Inc.
Category: Album
Country: USA
Reviewed by ForsakenMisery
