Vain - Enough Rope (2011)

Davy Vain was one of the coolest rock stars never to play stadiums. Vain's debut album 'No Respect' never got the praise it deserved and so what seems like aeon's later, Davy returns with another glam rock punch to the mid section. 'Enough Rope' doesn't need to nod to the late '80s and early '90s because that's where it originated from, a throbbing glam rock dynamic boosted by Jamie Scott's searing guitar work, coupled with Vain's sensual, sexual and sleazy vocal sneer. Effortless rock 'n' roll that proves how this stuff can still exist without being laboured or nostalgic. It's all about the attitude and Vain have it by the bucket load, carving out glittery grooves that lube up the tightest of holes for heavy metal insertion. Motley Crue, Hanoi Rocks, The Cult, it's all here, that pure swaggering feel that some bands are just born with - from the lipstick oomph of 'Cindy' and the sweltering 'Hot Stage Lights', evoking images of strip clubs but also a more intelligent structure. Vain were more than just image, but let's hope that this time they keep the fire burning and carve a career out of those razor sharp anthems. Ratt weren't half as good and yet Vain for some reason always remained in the shadow of weaker acts....but this is their time. Hopefully.

8/10