Saturday Shuffle: Tesla, Iommi, Warrant, Van Halen, Rev. Horton Heat

A little '80s rock, newer material from a couple of classics and something a little different ...

Tesla, “Change in the Weather.” From the album Psychotic Supper (1991). This big, driving blues rocker was a great way to kick off Tesla’s third record, one that I think is a bit underrated from their catalog. The song has a real 1970s rock vibe, with some influence from the 1980s hard rock scene.

Iommi (feat. Henry Rollins), “Laughing Man in the Devil Mask.” From the album Iommi (2000). Tony Iommi showed some versatility on this solo album which featured a variety of guest vocalists. He adapted chameleon-like to styles that fit his guests, while still keeping the essential Iomminess (that should really be a word) of the sound. This track is no different. There’s some Sabbath-style grind to it, but also a bouncing quality that really fits Rollins.

Warrant, “Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich.” From the album Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich (1989). Warrant is one of those bands that’s often credited with destroying the 1980s hard rock scene. The reputation is not entirely undeserved, but their debut album is a bit of a guilty pleasure for me. Granted, I wouldn’t care if I never heard “Heaven” again, but there are some fun, catchy songs on the record, too. This is one of them.

Van Halen, “As Is.” From the album A Different Kind of Truth (2012). A crunching intro, followed by a frenzied classic Van Halen sound and David Lee Roth delivering an over-the-top performance as only he can. This is what Van Halen is supposed to sound like, and it’s great to have them back.

Reverend Horton Heat, “Callin’ In Twisted.” From the album Revival (2004). The Rev. Horton Heat doing what he does best, a blazing, rockabilly boogie number that gets you moving.