The Lost US Jewels Vol.16 ; STRIPPED GYPSY – Troubadours of Fortune (2023) *0dayrox Exclusive*
Here’s another volume from the really good ‘The Lost US Jewels‘ series, Vol.16; the unreleased 1992’s recording “Troubadours of Fortune” by female fronted hard rockers STRIPPED GYPSY, in a carefully remastered version from the original tapes. A Limited to 500 copies collectible.
Asides from Kix and Child’s Play, Baltimore, Maryland, wasn’t exactly a hot bed of hard rock action in the late ’80s / early 90s. Hoping to change all that were STRIPPED GYPSY, a fearsome four piece lead by the diminutive powerhouse vocalist, Rose Manfre.
Fans of bands like Smashed Gladys, Princess Pang, and Femme Fatale will definitely appreciate the gritty and hard rock sleazy sound of Stripped Gypsy.
Formed from the ashes of local act Elements Of Design, the GYPSY’S took their inspiration from the likes of Guns ‘N’ Roses and LA. Guns, with the melodic sophistication of Enuff Z’Nuff thrown in for good measure. The vocals of Manfre were likened to that of a guttural cross between Debbie Harry and Ann Wilson by “Rox Magazine”, whilst the “Maryland Musician Magazine” described the band as “tight, taut and tough.”
They dealt in hard-edged, but melodic rock epitomised by songs like ‘See Ya Later Blind Trust’ ot ‘One Of Those Times’. Throw in some Dokken-esque guitars riffs, the rip-roaring vocals delivery of Rose Manfre and you’ve a winning combination.
The album opens with the hard-hitting track “See Ya Later”, which sets the tone for what’s to come. It’s a perfect blend of classic rock and metal, with a touch of ’70s influence. “Summer Lover” and “Sweet Talker” are both standout tracks, showcasing the band’s ability to create infectious hooks and memorable choruses. The band here really sounds like an ugly, but lovely child of Smashed Gladys and Saraya.
Considering this was a self-managed recording, the production quality of the album is impressive thanks to the work of engineers and producers Arnold Geher and Steve Carr. Each instrument can be heard clearly, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the talent of each band member.
While the album may not have been released during the band’s prime, it still holds up as a solid addition to any hard rock metal fan’s collection. Songs like “Blind Trust” and “Sex Is Dangerous” showcase the band’s potential and leave us wondering what could have been if they had stayed together.
These songs have lain undiscovered for more than thirty years, so it’s about time that these Baltimore bangers were unveiled, revealing one of the region’s best kept secrets.
Highly Recommended
1 – See Ya Later
2 – Summer Lover
3 – Sweet Talker
4 – Medicine Man
5 – Blind Trust
6 – Sex Is Dangerous
7 – One Of Those Times
8 – I’ll Remember You
Rosalie Wampler Manfre – vocals, guitar
Joe Manfre – drums
Chip Gypsy – bass
Scott Lein – guitars
Eric Ward – bass
Try here;
replayrecords.co.uk/product-page/stripped-gypsy-troubadours-of-fortune
