Punk rock has stood the test of time, much to the dismay of nay-sayers that have tried to say for years that this music wouldn't last. Not only has it lasted, it is much more respected today than it was  when it began in the 1970s. The bands still play music for the social outcast and it sill remains a wonderful way to vent for the artists. Anarchy and disrespect for the establishment still reign through the songs as they did in the beginning, and will remain to do so until the end. Punk Rock is a statement made by youth that don't fit the norm of society, however the music has become increasingly popular, so does that mean that punk rock music is now the "NORM" of the music world? Hardly, but it is an art form all it's own. So, enjoy the review of the Billy Idol - Devil's Playground, then head back to the main Punk Rock Reviews page and get a taste of some more new stuff. 

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"........ Hey Billy Idol, What have you done......"

Billy Idol - Devil's Playground

It's been 12 years since we last heard a full length CD from Generation X punkster Billy Idol. Ruling the '80s with his pop-punk formula that was fueled by entertaining videos in the early days of MTV, when they played Music Videos. Billy Idol has come back with a new CD filled with tracks that don't mess with the formula that made Billy Idol an 80's Music Icon. Trying to screw with the formula that made Billy Idol who he was is exactly the reason his last CD Cyberpunk was only purchased by Idol's close friends and family.

No, this isn't Rebel Yell, there is no White Wedding here, and nothing as radio friendly as Dancing With Myself was. There are some catchy tunes here, the band is amazing, and Billy Idol's vocals sound as good if not better than they ever have. Devil's Playground, as a complete project, is a more focused CD than any of Billy Idol's past efforts. An in your face, but more playful than angry, hook driven punk rock CD. Devil's Playground shows that Billy Idol still deserves as much attention as any of the bands that have come along in the last few years. Billy Idol shows that if you still have the heart for it, there is no age limit on Punk Rock.

The CD starts off with an intense attitude on "Super Overdrive", which by the way, Ramones guitar flavor set aside, showcase Idol's vocals best of any on Devil's Playground. The album stays focused as it continues through some edgy tracks "World Comin' Down" through "Scream". The talent Billy Idol has always had is still here as well, the talent of only slightly masking all the sexual innuendo's, the best example here is the high energy "Scream". Devil's Playground deserves more positive attention than it will probably get. The simple fact is here, this is a Billy Idol album, if you are looking for something new and innovative, you will be disappointed. If you've been hoping Billy Idol would release a new CD, this is better than I was expecting.

Die-hard punk fans, the fans of true hard-core punk may not be as easily pleased by Devil's Playground, but it is sure to appeal to Billy Idol fans, and fans of the modern rock sound. One of the most memorable tracks is Billy Idol's take on the Ernie Marrs "Plastic Jesus". The track was first heard on the Cool Hand Luke soundtrack and has been covered by folk artists to metal, Billy Idol gives the track arguably the best version in recent history. OK, so you are thinking bottom line, right, well Billy Idol's lyrics are as fun as ever, his vocals are stronger, and the music is polished. This is the first  Billy Idol CD that I have truly enjoyed from beginning to end, I highly recommend Devil's Playground.

  ( 5 Stars out of 6 )

Play MP3 Sample of Billy Idol's "SCREAM!"

Play MP3 Sample of Billy Idol's "Plastic Jesus"

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