White Lion used to be one of those bands that thrashers and the like laughed at. Big hair, sun-tan, a pert smile, and those frilly leather jackets....but when I listen to this album so many years later, I find myself wiping the egg of my face. White Lion were in fact a rockin' outfit, fronted by the white-toothed glamour boy Mike Tramp. Sure, it's got all the metal cliche's, the lyrics for one leave a lot to be desired...it's all love, hunger, heartbreak and more love...but behind those smarmy, yet fulfilling vocals there's a guitarist with an attitude. Step forward Vito Bratta, who co-wrote this album. This guy has some serious talent, I'd love to know what he went on to do. Anyway, 'pride' is a bit of a metal cushion, or even a rock 'n' roll breast to suckle up to and lay your head on, I find it all soothing, well produced, but with enough oomph to wrench it from hair metal Armageddon. Okay, so 'Don't Give Up' does sound like the sister of Journey's 'Don't Stop Believing', but 'Lonely Nights' (imagine the breeze through the window, the satin sheets!!!) cradles the heart, and 'Lady Of The Valley' crushes it with a killer riff. Great drums by Greg D'Angelo, Tramp taking on a persona I never gave him credit for. 'Wait' is lush as a ballad, sweeping acoustic guitars, Tramp's cosy pipes wheezing over the waves. 'All You Need Is Rock N Roll' a cool little ditty which transforms into a cavorting, Crue-esque, hip-shaker.
White Lion recorded three very good albums in their day, 'Pride', 'Mane Attraction' and 'Big Game', and I for one feel wholly refreshed listening to such a silky sound. And much respect to the boy Bratta.
8/10
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