Lack of Communication

Experience Ratt's "Lack of Communication," a high-energy hard rock and glam metal essential from their 1984 debut, Out of the Cellar. This track embodies the raw power and catchy riffs that defined Ratt's early sound and launched them onto the 80s rock scene.

From Ratt's groundbreaking 1984 debut Out of the Cellar, "Lack of Communication" is a prime example of their formative glam metal and hard rock style. It established their signature sound early on, driven by the powerful twin-guitar work of Warren DeMartini and Robbin Crosby and Stephen Pearcy's unmistakable vocals. This track helped solidify the core musical identity that defined their multi-platinum success.

This 1984 glam metal track delivers the potent hard rock energy characteristic of Ratt's debut album. "Lack of Communication" stands out with its driving, riff-heavy structure and undeniable streetwise attitude. While not a lead single, it remains a crucial album cut and fan favorite, perfectly representing the powerful sound that quickly earned Ratt widespread acclaim in the exploding 80s metal scene.

SONG MEANING: "Lack of Communication" tackles themes of frustration and conflict arising from misunderstandings, most likely within a strained relationship or social interaction. The lyrics express annoyance ("What goes around comes around") and hint at a breakdown where words fail ("Actions speak louder than words"). It captures the edgy tension of communication failure, reflecting the raw attitude common in Ratt's hard rock anthems.

The love songs of the 80s, where big hair met big emotions! These sonic valentines throbbed with synthesizers, soaring power ballads, and a touch of neon-tinged optimism.

First love, innocent and electric, pulsed through songs like Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" and Michael Jackson's "The Girl Is Mine." Synthy anthems like Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf" and Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer" promised forever young devotion, while the power ballad kings like Foreigner ("I Want to Know What Love Is") and REO Speedwagon ("Can't Fight This Feeling") belted out their hearts in epic choruses.

For a touch of melancholy, there were break-up bangers like Cyndi Lauper's "Time After Time" and Tears for Fears' "Shout," where wounded hearts raged against betrayal. But even heartbreak shimmered with hope, exemplified by Phil Collins' "Against All Odds" and Tina Turner's "Simply the Best," anthems of resilience and finding love again.

Beyond the mainstream, alternative love bloomed in The Cure's introspective "Lovesong" and The Smiths' Morrissey crooning about rainy day romance. And who could forget Prince's purple reign of sensuality, from the simmering "Kiss" to the playful "Raspberry Beret?"

Love in the 80s was big, bold, and sometimes cheesy, but always passionate. These songs were the soundtrack to first kisses, prom nights, and mixtapes passed between lockers. They captured the era's vibrant spirit, reminding us that even shoulder pads and leg warmers couldn't contain the power of a good love song.

Many iconic tracks from this era pulsated with raw rock energy, driven by unforgettable, blues-infused guitar hooks and thunderous rhythms. These anthems often blended hard-hitting rock foundations with surprisingly catchy, pop-infused melodies perfect for stadium singalongs. Synthesizers added layers of texture, sometimes subtly, other times taking center stage, defining the decade's signature sound even within rock genres. Lyrically, themes often revolved around love, lust, fast living, and a yearning for freedom, delivered with swagger and confidence that captured the spirit of the times and filled arenas worldwide.

Beyond the high-octane rockers, the era excelled in crafting emotionally charged power ballads and mid-tempo declarations. Powerful vocals conveyed both vulnerability and strength, exploring themes of longing, heartbreak, devotion, and resilience. From swaggering odes to flirtatious encounters and declarations of unwavering love, these songs showcased a dynamic range. Bands mastered the art of shifting from driving beats and intricate guitar solos to heartfelt pleas, often accompanied by keyboard melodies that tugged at the heartstrings, creating enduring classics that remain staples on rock radio and karaoke nights alike.