The Making of Screw It! by Danger Danger

Introduction

Released in the twilight of the glam metal era, Danger Danger’s Screw It! stands as a vibrant testament to the exuberance and excess of early ’90s rock. The band’s second studio album, it followed their successful self-titled debut with an even more ambitious sound and bold production. Screw It! was recorded amidst a rapidly changing musical landscape, with grunge on the horizon and the glam metal scene beginning to wane. Despite these shifts, Danger Danger managed to create an album that not only captured the essence of their genre but also pushed its boundaries.

This article will delve into the album’s creation, its recording process, and its commercial performance. We’ll explore the singles that drove its success, analyze its track list, and examine its lasting influence. Through interviews and retrospectives, we’ll uncover how Screw It! has maintained its relevance in the decades since its release.

As Danger Danger bassist and producer Bruno Ravel once noted, “Screw It! was about having fun and pushing the boundaries of what we could do musically.” His statement encapsulates the spirit of the album, which continues to resonate with fans old and new.

For more insights, you can listen to our podcast on the making of this album, available soon.

The Genesis of “Screw It!”

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the music world was a vibrant mix of sounds and styles. Glam metal was at its peak, characterized by its flamboyant fashion and catchy hooks. Bands like Bon Jovi and Def Leppard were ruling the airwaves, and it was in this environment that Danger Danger emerged with their debut album in 1989. The success of hits like “Naughty Naughty” and “Bang Bang” set the stage for their follow-up, Screw It!

Danger Danger, formed in Queens, New York, consisted of Ted Poley on vocals, Andy Timmons on guitar, Kasey Smith on keyboards, Bruno Ravel on bass, and Steve West on drums. This lineup was instrumental in crafting the band’s signature sound, a blend of melodic rock with an edge of glam. As they approached their second album, the band aimed to build on their debut’s success while exploring new musical territories.

Creative input came from all members, but the primary songwriting duo was Bruno Ravel and Steve West. Their collaborative synergy was crucial in developing the album’s tracks. Notably, the album also featured guest contributions from artists like Gary Cherone and Nuno Bettencourt, adding further depth to the project.

Here is a table detailing the band members and their roles:

The album’s production was financed by Epic Records, which provided the budget needed to ensure high production values. The album’s title, Screw It!, was chosen for its rebellious undertone, reflecting the band’s playful yet bold attitude. The cover art, designed by the band, was meant to capture the album’s lively spirit, featuring vibrant colors and dynamic imagery.

Recording Process

Recording an album as ambitious as Screw It! required meticulous planning and execution. The sessions took place at New River Studios in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a studio known for its state-of-the-art equipment and acoustics. Under the watchful eyes of producers Bruno Ravel and Steve West, the band set out to capture the energy and excitement that defined their live performances.

The recording process involved a mix of traditional and innovative techniques. The band utilized a range of equipment, including top-tier microphones and compressors, to ensure the highest sound quality. Although specific hardware details from the sessions remain largely undocumented, it is assumed they used equipment typical of high-end studios at the time, such as Neumann microphones and SSL mixing desks.

During the recording, the band faced challenges typical of high-pressure studio environments, including tight deadlines and the need for perfection. However, these hurdles only served to enhance their creativity. As Bruno Ravel recounted in an interview, “The studio was our playground, and we wanted to make sure every note was exactly where it needed to be.”

Below is a table of other albums produced by Bruno Ravel and Steve West:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, Screw It! entered a competitive market dominated by the burgeoning grunge movement, yet it managed to carve out its own niche. While it did not reach the same commercial heights as some of its contemporaries, the album still achieved respectable sales and chart positions, particularly in the United States and Japan.

To provide a comprehensive overview of the album’s commercial performance, here is a table of related albums:

The album’s success was bolstered by its standout singles, which received significant airplay and helped to maintain the band’s presence in the glam metal scene. Despite facing stiff competition from emerging grunge acts, Screw It! remained a favorite among fans of the genre.

Other albums released in 1991 include:

• Nevermind by Nirvana [10 million]
• Metallica by Metallica [16 million]
• Use Your Illusion I by Guns N’ Roses [7 million]
• Use Your Illusion II by Guns N’ Roses [7 million]

In terms of accolades, Screw It! was recognized for its energetic production and catchy songwriting, earning it a place in the hearts of glam metal enthusiasts worldwide.

Singles and Track Analysis

The singles from Screw It! played a pivotal role in defining the album’s identity and broadening its appeal. Songs like “Monkey Business” and “Beat the Bullet” showcased the band’s knack for blending catchy hooks with hard-hitting rock riffs.

Here is a table listing the album’s tracks along with their details:

Note: Songs marked with * were singles. “Monkey Business” reached No. 42 on the UK Singles Chart.

Influences and Legacy

Drawing from the vibrant glam metal scene of the late ’80s, Screw It! was heavily influenced by bands like Van Halen and Def Leppard. These influences are evident in the album’s anthemic choruses and high-energy guitar solos.

Here is a table showcasing the influences and those influenced by the album:

The year 1991 was significant for more than just the release of Screw It!. It was a year marked by major global events, such as the end of the Gulf War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union. In the realm of cinema, Terminator 2: Judgment Day dominated the box office, showcasing the year’s cultural dynamism.

Five Things about Screw It!

Screw It! is filled with fascinating details and stories that enrich its legacy. Here are five facts about the album:

Media and Television Usage

Despite its vibrant and catchy tunes, songs from Screw It! have not been widely used in media. After thorough research, we were unable to find any uses of songs from this album in films or television shows.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Upon its release, Screw It! received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its energetic sound and catchy hooks, others criticized its perceived lack of depth and originality.

Here is a table summarizing some of the critical reviews:

After Screw It!

Following the release of Screw It!, Danger Danger faced a period of transition. The rise of grunge and alternative rock led to a decline in the popularity of glam metal, impacting the band’s commercial success. However, they continued to produce music and tour, maintaining a loyal fanbase.

Over the years, the band underwent several lineup changes, with notable departures and returns. Despite these challenges, they remained active, releasing albums like Dawn and Revolve, which marked a return to their classic sound.

As of October 2024, Danger Danger continues to perform and engage with fans, celebrating their legacy while exploring new musical avenues.

Remasters and Reissues

The enduring appeal of Screw It! has led to several remasters and reissues over the years, each bringing new life to the album’s classic tracks.

The remastered editions often feature bonus tracks and improved audio quality, making them a must-have for collectors and new fans alike.

Conclusion

Screw It! remains a beloved gem within the glam metal genre, celebrated for its exuberant spirit and infectious melodies. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of some contemporaries, its influence and appeal endure, making it a staple in the collections of rock enthusiasts.

For further exploration of similar albums and artists, check out our own blog articles and podcasts:

• Bon Jovi – New Jersey (Blog)
• Skid Row – Slave to the Grind (Blog)
• The Making of Dr Feelgood by Motley Crue (Podcast)

For additional information, visit the Wikipedia page for “Screw It!”, the official Danger Danger website, and the record label’s website.

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Screw It! by Danger Danger. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!