401 of 1001 Albums: Guns N' Roses' Appetite for Destruction

So I've got to admit this is one of the better albums I've listened to in a long time on the list. There is a ton of instrumental talent, creative lyrics, and vocals that are just great. Guns N Roses exploded onto the scene with their album that would set them up to be names through the future even if they never made another album. While a few songs aren't near as intriguing as the beginning one, they throw in enough to keep you listening and begin and end perfectly with "Welcome to the Jungle" and "Rocket Queen."

History: The band members are very open about what each song is about on the album. Whether it's about a girlfriend, heroine, or just moving to the big city, the guy's share lots of personal stories about their lives within the songs. The earliest song written in 1981 was "Anything Goes." The album itself wouldn't come out till 1987. The album was worth taking the time to make though as it received great reviews by critics and topped charts. It went on to be one of the best selling debut albums of all time.


Vocals: You have two backing vocalist, and Axl Rose on the lead vocals. Duff and Izzy contribute to the backing vocals well. It's Axl Rose who will really catch your attention though. He gets a bit nasally, but somehow keeps it all appeasing to listen to. He also has a range that reaches to a nice more lower extent and then raises it to sound more like a hair metal band. It expresses the lyrics well and makes it memorable how he makes it all flow.

Instrumentals: The guitar has a some innovative licks and other riffs that have become staple sounds for the album like on "Sweet Child O' Mine." The opening is enough to get anyone's attention and stick with you long after. Slash has made a name for himself because of some of the techniques used on the album. Axl also does contribute to other drums on the album while also doubling with vocals. Steve Adler even makes the drums stand out on the album with their staple tempo.

Recording: I like how a bit of the 80's are melted into the album. There is also something still timelessly appealing about the album though. The recording is very crisp and clear, and you can hear each element of the track very well through the songs. While some songs begin to blend and don't ring as catchy to me as others it still maintains being a strong album.

Appetite for Destruction provides some interesting lyrics and instrumentals along with a passionate vocalist. The themes may not be easy to relate to for anyone, but it is appreciated how the people behind the music try to get personal with it instead of slamming something together that feels like it has no personal touch or meaning to it.

Rating 8 of 10.