The release of Dokken's Back for the Attack album in 1987 marked a significant moment in the band's career and left an indelible mark on the hard rock and heavy metal landscape. This album not only propelled Dokken into the spotlight but also introduced a new generation of fans to their unique brand of music. In this blog post, we will delve into the history, impact, and enduring legacy of Back for the Attack, exploring its tracks, the band's evolution, and its influence on the music industry.
The Rise of Dokken
Dokken, formed in 1979 by guitarist George Lynch, vocalist Don Dokken, bassist Gregg Gonzales, and drummer Steve Douglass, had already made a name for themselves with their debut album, Breaking the Chains, released in 1981. However, it was their second album, Tooth and Nail (1984), that truly put them on the map, earning them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.
The success of Tooth and Nail set the stage for their next big release, Back for the Attack, which would solidify their position as one of the leading acts in the hard rock genre.
Album Production and Lineup Changes
The production of Back for the Attack began with some notable changes in the band's lineup. Bassist Jeff Pilson joined the band, replacing Juan Croucier, who had left to join Ratt. Pilson's arrival brought a new dynamic to the band's sound, and his contribution to the album's songwriting and performance is widely recognized.
The album was produced by the renowned Tom Werman, who had previously worked with bands like Mötley Crüe and Cheap Trick. Werman's experience and expertise helped shape the album's sound, ensuring it had a commercial edge while still maintaining Dokken's signature style.
Tracklist and Musical Style
The tracklist of Back for the Attack showcases a diverse range of songs, blending powerful ballads with hard-hitting rock anthems. Here's a closer look at some of the album's standout tracks:
- "Unchain the Night": This opening track sets the tone for the album with its energetic and upbeat rhythm. It's a classic Dokken song, featuring George Lynch's iconic guitar riffs and Don Dokken's powerful vocals.
- "Dream Warriors": Used as the theme song for the 1987 horror film A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, this song showcases Dokken's ability to create epic and atmospheric music. It became one of their most recognizable hits.
- "Alone Again": A powerful and emotional power ballad, "Alone Again" showcases Don Dokken's vocal range and the band's talent for creating heartfelt and relatable lyrics. It remains one of their most popular and enduring songs.
- "In My Dreams": Another ballad that showcases the band's softer side, "In My Dreams" features beautiful guitar work and a memorable melody. It became a fan favorite and is often requested at Dokken's live performances.
- "Mr. Scary": A high-energy and aggressive track, "Mr. Scary" highlights George Lynch's virtuosic guitar skills. The song's intense riffs and solos make it a highlight of the album and a favorite among guitar enthusiasts.
The album's musical style combines elements of heavy metal, hard rock, and glam metal, creating a unique sound that appealed to a wide range of fans. Dokken's ability to craft catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and intricate guitar work set them apart from their contemporaries.
Commercial Success and Impact
Upon its release, Back for the Attack received critical acclaim and commercial success. It peaked at #38 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawned several hit singles, including "Dream Warriors," "Alone Again," and "Burning Like a Flame."
The album's success helped Dokken gain mainstream recognition and establish themselves as one of the leading hard rock bands of the 1980s. Their music resonated with fans around the world, and their influence extended beyond the United States.
Dokken's impact on the music industry during this era cannot be overstated. Their blend of heavy riffs, catchy melodies, and emotional ballads inspired countless bands and helped shape the sound of hard rock and heavy metal for years to come.
Legacy and Influence
The legacy of Back for the Attack endures to this day. The album's songs continue to be staples in Dokken's live performances, and their influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary bands.
Dokken's success paved the way for other hard rock and heavy metal bands to achieve mainstream success. Their fusion of powerful vocals, intricate guitar work, and memorable songwriting set a standard that many artists strive to achieve.
The album's impact can also be seen in the resurgence of interest in 80s hard rock and metal in recent years. Back for the Attack is often cited as a classic and influential album by music critics and fans alike, solidifying its place in the history of rock music.
Conclusion
Dokken's Back for the Attack is a testament to the band's talent, hard work, and dedication to their craft. This album not only solidified their position as one of the most successful hard rock bands of the 80s but also left an indelible mark on the music industry. With its blend of powerful ballads and hard-hitting anthems, Back for the Attack continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world, ensuring Dokken's legacy endures for generations to come.
What makes Back for the Attack a significant album in Dokken’s discography?
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The album’s commercial success, critical acclaim, and its ability to showcase Dokken’s diverse musical style and talent make it a standout release in their career.
Who produced Back for the Attack?
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The album was produced by Tom Werman, a renowned producer known for his work with other successful hard rock and metal bands.
What are some of the most popular songs from Back for the Attack?
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Some of the most popular songs from the album include “Dream Warriors,” “Alone Again,” “Burning Like a Flame,” and “In My Dreams.”
