Review Summary: Motorhead's Beat Album To Date
Most fans of true metal and thrash cite Motorhead as an influence. Despite this recognition it seems like Motorhead is always opening up for someone and has never sold a ton of records. That is a shame because once someone acquires a taste for Lemmy's gruff vocals the music is often outstanding. Most Motorhead albums are loud, aggressive but also melodic. Most fans also seem to be most loyal to albums like Orgasmatron and Ace of Spades which was as close to a hit album as they ever got in the United States. It is my opinion that the best Motorhead album ever does not come from the late 70's or 80's but right at the beginning of the grunge era. The album is called "Bastards." The record was heavier than Motorhead's last few but also quite melodic with catchy songs like "Born to Raise Hell." This album is loud and fast and contains the lineup of Lemmy, Phil Campbell, Wurzel, and Mikkey Dee. Normally Motorhead have always been a three piece and this album is one of the few exceptions. I believe the fact this is a four piece album may have been the reason Motorhead went for a faster approach than they had in a long time.
There is a surprising amount of lyric growth on Bastards as well. One of the standout tracks is a rare slow Motorhead sond called "Don't Let Daddy Kiss Me" which is about child abuse. For those who hate ballads (and I would guess most Motorhead fans do), a standout on this classic is a heavy, fast rocker called "Burner." I probably listen to this Motorhead album more than any others.
