Rediscover Billy Idol’s Rebel Yell: Extended 2-CD Review with Sue Aston
For this review I’m joined by Sue Aston. Many of you might know Sue as an accomplished violinist, but today we’re stepping away from classical music and diving into the world of Billy Idol and his iconic album, Rebel Yell.
Please watch the video for the full review
Rebel Yell, originally released in 1983, is a pivotal album in Billy Idol’s career. Produced by Keith Forsey, the album features Billy Idol on vocals and Steve Stevens on guitar. It quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 6 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 6 on the Billboard 200 in the US. The title track, “Rebel Yell,” became one of Idol’s signature songs, peaking at No. 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart.
Sue first heard Billy Idol in the early ’80s, during a tumultuous time in her life as a young music student. Her love for Idol’s music began with his work in Generation X and grew with the release of Rebel Yell. She recalls the blend of punk rock energy with infectious dance rhythms, which made Idol’s music stand out in a sea of ’80s metal and pop.
The Extended 2-CD Edition
The newly remastered 2-CD edition of Rebel Yell not only brings a refreshed sound to the classic album but also includes some fabulous additional material on the second disc. Here are some highlights:
Love Don’t Live Here Anymore: This cover, originally by Rose Royce and popularized by Madonna, showcases Idol’s stunning vocal performance and Stevens’ jaw-dropping guitar work. Although intended for the original album, it was shelved due to Madonna’s prior release.
Motorbiking: A cover of Chris Spedding’s track, adding a unique flavor to the collection.
Demos and Outtakes: Offering a fascinating insight into the album’s creation, these tracks provide a lighter, poppier contrast to the dark, powerful final versions on the original album.
The Production and Sound
Rebel Yell stands out not just for its catchy hooks and anthemic choruses, but also for its unique production. Keith Forsey, the drummer for Giorgio Moroder, infused the album with a hypnotic, synth-pop energy that was perfect for the dance floor. This blending of heavy metal riffs and pulsating rhythms allowed Idol’s music to cross genre boundaries, appealing to a wide audience.
The extended 2-CD edition of Rebel Yell is a must-have for any Billy Idol fan. It’s not just a nostalgia trip; the remastered sound and additional tracks offer new ways to experience and appreciate the album.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine