Introduction
Faster Pussycat’s debut album, Faster Pussycat, released in 1987, stands as a significant milestone in the glam metal genre. Emerging during a vibrant era of hard rock, this album encapsulates the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the time. It offers a snapshot of the cultural and musical zeitgeist of the late 1980s.
This article delves into the creation, recording process, and legacy of Faster Pussycat. We’ll explore the band’s history, the album’s impact, and its lasting influence on the music industry. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of why this album remains a crucial part of rock history.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Release date | July 7, 1987 |
| Album title | Faster Pussycat |
| Genre | Glam metal, Hard rock |
| Total runtime | 36:13 |
| Number of tracks | 10 |
| Record label | Elektra |
| Recording studio | Unknown Studio |
| Producer(s) | Ric Browde |
Despite its initial moderate commercial success, the album’s influence has endured, cementing its place in the glam metal genre. Taime Downe, the band’s lead vocalist, remarked,
"It was about capturing the spirit of the times, and I think we did that."
The album’s legacy is further solidified by its inclusion in Rock Hard magazine’s list of the 500 Greatest Rock & Metal Albums of All Time.
The Genesis of “Faster Pussycat”
The journey to creating Faster Pussycat began in the bustling music scene of Los Angeles in the mid-1980s. This era was defined by the rise of glam metal, a genre characterised by its flamboyant style and energetic sound. Faster Pussycat, formed in 1985, quickly became a part of this burgeoning movement.
Before the release of their debut album, the band had already made a name for themselves with their dynamic live performances. Their early work, though not widely recorded, set the stage for the unique sound they would capture on their first album. The creative force behind the band included Taime Downe, Greg Steele, and Brent Muscat, who were instrumental in crafting the album’s distinctive sound.
The album’s title, Faster Pussycat, was inspired by the 1965 Russ Meyer film “Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” This nod to pop culture reflected the band’s irreverent attitude and aesthetic. The album cover, designed to capture this spirit, features bold imagery that complements the music’s raw energy.
| Band Member | Instrument |
|---|---|
| Taime Downe | Lead vocals |
| Greg Steele | Guitar, backing vocals |
| Brent Muscat | Guitar, backing vocals |
| Eric Stacy | Bass guitar, backing vocals |
| Mark Michals | Drums, backing vocals |
Financially, the band faced the usual challenges of a debut album. Elektra Records provided the necessary support, but the budget was tight. Nonetheless, the band and producer Ric Browde managed to deliver an album that would resonate with fans for decades.
Recording Process
The recording sessions for Faster Pussycat were a whirlwind of creativity and determination. Despite the lack of detailed records about the specific studio used, it’s known that the band recorded between 1986 and 1987. This period was crucial in shaping the album’s sound.
Ric Browde, the producer, played a pivotal role in the recording process. Known for his work with bands like Poison, Browde brought his expertise in capturing the essence of glam metal to the project. His approach to production emphasized the raw, energetic sound that defined the genre.
While specific equipment details are scarce, it’s likely that the studio was equipped with the standard gear of the era, such as analogue mixing desks and classic microphones. These tools would have been essential in achieving the album’s vibrant sound.
| Equipment | Details |
|---|---|
| Microphones | Assumed standard studio mics of the 1980s |
| Mixing Desk | Likely analogue desks typical of the era |
| Compressors | Standard studio compressors of the time |
Interestingly, during the recording, the band faced challenges such as maintaining their creative vision within the constraints of time and budget. Nonetheless, they persevered, resulting in a product that has stood the test of time.
Ric Browde’s production portfolio is extensive, and it’s important to note his contributions to other notable projects. Below is a table of some of his other works:
| Producer | Artist | Album | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ric Browde | Poison | Look What the Cat Dragged In | 1986 |
Commercial Performance and Reception
Upon its release, Faster Pussycat charted at number 97 on the Billboard 200, a respectable position for a debut album in the competitive glam metal scene of the late 1980s. Although it didn’t achieve the commercial heights of some contemporaries, it garnered a loyal fan base.
In terms of sales, specific figures are elusive, but the album’s position in the band’s discography is significant. It laid the groundwork for their subsequent releases, helping to establish their presence in the glam metal genre.
| Album | Year | Producer |
|---|---|---|
| Faster Pussycat | 1987 | Ric Browde |
| Wake Me When It’s Over | 1989 | John Jansen |
| Whipped! | 1992 | Michael Wagener |
The album didn’t receive any major awards, but its impact was felt in the glam metal community. It was a stepping stone that allowed the band to tour extensively, opening for acts like Alice Cooper and Guns N’ Roses.
In 1987, several notable albums were released alongside Faster Pussycat. These include:
- Appetite for Destruction by Guns N’ Roses
- Girls, Girls, Girls by Mötley Crüe
- Permanent Vacation by Aerosmith
- Among the Living by Anthrax
The year 1987 was a pivotal one for heavy music, marked by significant events such as the debut of MTV’s Headbangers Ball and the emergence of influential bands like Nirvana and Alice in Chains. These developments set the stage for the evolving landscape of rock music.
Track Analysis
The singles from Faster Pussycat helped define the band’s sound and image. “Don’t Change That Song” and “Bathroom Wall” were particularly notable for their catchy hooks and rebellious themes.
Below is a detailed table of the album’s tracks and their respective details:
| Track Name | Length | Writing Credit |
|---|---|---|
| Don’t Change That Song* | 3:40 | Taime Downe, Greg Steele |
| Bathroom Wall | 3:40 | Taime Downe |
| No Room for Emotion | 3:56 | Taime Downe, Brent Muscat |
| Cathouse | 3:42 | Taime Downe |
| Babylon | 3:14 | Taime Downe, Greg Steele |
| Smash Alley | 3:28 | Taime Downe, Brent Muscat |
| Shooting You Down | 3:46 | Taime Downe |
| City Has No Heart | 4:19 | Taime Downe, Brent Muscat |
| Ship Rolls In | 3:26 | Taime Downe, Greg Steele |
| Bottle in Front of Me | 3:02 | Taime Downe, Brent Muscat |
* “Don’t Change That Song” and “Bathroom Wall” were singles from the album.
Song Meaning and Lyrics
The lyrics on Faster Pussycat are a mix of playful rebellion and introspective reflection. The singles, “Don’t Change That Song” and “Bathroom Wall,” stand out for their vivid storytelling and catchy choruses.
“Don’t Change That Song” is a celebration of music’s power to enhance intimate moments. The lyrics depict a romantic encounter where the protagonist insists on keeping a particular song playing, symbolising the role of music in personal connections.
On the other hand, “Bathroom Wall” explores themes of youthful mischief and the allure of nightlife. Its lyrics are a humorous take on graffiti culture, capturing the carefree spirit of the band.
For more detailed analysis, refer to Meaning of Don’t Change That Song and Meaning of Poison Ivy.
Touring and Promotion of Faster Pussycat
The promotion of Faster Pussycat involved a mix of live performances, music videos, and strategic marketing. The band capitalised on the growing popularity of MTV to reach a wider audience.
In 1987, Faster Pussycat embarked on an extensive tour, performing 30 shows across North America and Europe. They shared stages with prominent acts like Alice Cooper and Guns N’ Roses, further boosting their visibility.
Their tour schedule included performances in major cities such as Seattle, Vancouver, and Boston. Notably, they played alongside Alice Cooper during his “Live in the Flesh Tour,” which provided significant exposure.
Influences and Legacy
The musical influences on Faster Pussycat are rooted in the glam rock and punk scenes of the 1970s and 1980s. Bands like Aerosmith and New York Dolls played a crucial role in shaping their sound.
In turn, Faster Pussycat’s debut album has influenced a new generation of rock bands. Its blend of glam metal and hard rock has inspired artists across various genres.
| Influences on “Faster Pussycat” | Artists Influenced by “Faster Pussycat” |
|---|---|
| Aerosmith | Buckcherry |
| New York Dolls | The Darkness |
The year 1987 was notable for several cultural and global events. Aretha Franklin became the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, while MTV’s Headbangers Ball debuted, marking a new era in music television.
Five Things about Faster Pussycat
Here are five fascinating facts about Faster Pussycat that highlight its unique place in rock history:
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Inspiration for the Name | The band’s name was inspired by the 1965 film “Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” |
| Russ Meyer Connection | Russ Meyer, the director of the film, directed the video for “Don’t Change That Song.” |
| Club DJ Feature | Riki Rachtman, a former club DJ and roommate of Taime Downe, featured on “Babylon.” |
| Documentary Appearance | The band appeared in the rockumentary “The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years.” |
| Chart Success | The album reached number 97 on the Billboard 200 chart. |
Media and Television Usage
Despite its popularity, there is no known media usage of songs from Faster Pussycat. This could be due to the album’s niche appeal within the glam metal genre.
Critical Reviews and Retrospectives
The critical reception of Faster Pussycat was mixed at the time of its release. Some reviewers praised its energetic sound, while others criticised it for lacking originality.
Unfortunately, detailed review data and scores are not available, but the album’s inclusion in Rock Hard magazine’s top 500 list speaks to its enduring appeal.
After Faster Pussycat
Following the release of their debut album, Faster Pussycat continued to build their career with subsequent albums and tours. Their follow-up album, Wake Me When It’s Over, achieved gold status, further cementing their place in rock history.
The band underwent several lineup changes over the years, with Taime Downe remaining the only constant member. Despite these changes, they have maintained a loyal fan base and continue to perform.
As of December 2024, Faster Pussycat remains active, releasing new music and touring internationally, showcasing their enduring legacy in the rock scene.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Faster Pussycat remains a vital piece of the glam metal puzzle. Its influence can be seen in the music of many bands that followed. The album’s raw energy and rebellious spirit continue to resonate with fans old and new.
For those interested in exploring more about Faster Pussycat, additional resources include their official website and the Wikipedia page dedicated to the band.
Further Reading
- Our blog articles on Faster Pussycat
- Wikipedia page for “Faster Pussycat”
- Official Faster Pussycat website
- Elektra Records’ website
Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Faster Pussycat by Faster Pussycat. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!
