Billy Idol – Devil’s Playground

A new Billy Idol album? I must admit that I was very skeptical about this one at first. Billy Idol did do some good things way back when, but I thought that a new album by him would be, at the very least, outdated. How wrong I was!

This album is simply incredible! Joined by his regular guitarist, Steve Stevens and former Dream Theatre keyboardist Derek Sherinian on keyboards this is an astounding album in every sense!

Imagine what Billy used to do twenty years ago. Now add twenty years maturity to it. This does not sound dated at all. And the songs are generally better than anything he ever wrote. From Rat Race to Plastic Jesus to Cherie even through the Christmas track Yellin’ at the Xmas Tree, this album will keep you listening at all times.

Granted the sleeve is in keeping with what he did back in the 80’s, even to his look (minus the glove), but the music is certainly not 80’s. And with the quality of the musicians, you can’t go wrong. As for Billy’s voice, it’s still ringing strong and true. The production is sleek and incredibly well done.

I put it in the CD player almost for laughs, but now I keep putting it back in because it so good!

The Idol is back and I’m glad he is! With music like this, I certainly hope he’s back for a long, long time.