ESSEXX: We Make It Rock ’85 + STRYDER: Nothing At All ’84 [digitally remastered] (2022)
Metallic Blue Records is releasing today for the first time on CD the recordings from ’80s Utah-based female fronted melodic hard rock act ESSEXX, whom previously operated under the name STRYDER.
As STRYDER, the band manged to release the private LP “Nothing At All” in 1984, now here augmented with several bonus tracks previously unreleased. Then the band changed its name to ESSEXX and the musical delivery was even more commercial and catchy. Their mini-album ”We Make It Rock” from 1985 (produced by Ronnie Montrose) is featured here alongside a couple of live tracks.
The colorful lead vocals of Laurie Welker and the sharp riffs / solos from Gilbert Rodriguez (who later was part of hard rockers Bad Boys) should have been enough for ESSEXX / STRYDER to get signed by a major label. Just check our the video below.
There’s a lot of hooks, catchy refrains and very good musicianship on offer here, mid-80s US stuff that finally sees the light. Finely produced, this remaster brings clarity to these dusted tapes.
