Smyth sings with typical aplomb and versatile rock texture on this track - written again by Zack Smith and herself. Thats not because the tune lacks quality, but it could be argued that by this late point of its career, Scandal was running low on distinctiveness in its sound. Nevertheless, this Holly KnightNick Gilder composition at least has earned its status as a bona fide 80s power rock classic.Įven better, Smyths confident vocal delivery and soaring style help her make the song sound very much like a Scandal original. Ultimately, its probably a good thing Smyth chose the middle ground between hard rock and alternative music for most of her work.īut I have little doubt she could have kicked plenty of ass within either of those broad genres, and this song serves as prime evidence to support that view. In addition, the combined songwriting talents of the similarly named Smith and Smyth demonstrate plenty of magical fusion here. Once again, Smyths vocals work wonders (and prove her entirely capable of performing genuine hard rock like she was asked to do for Van Halen back in 1985). This early 1983 track may sport typical romantic themes, but it remains memorable because of the intensity of the band performances and, of course, Smyths sexy persona that almost makes her seem like an attainable love interest for the common man.

Some detractors have dismissed the songwriting of Zack Smith (who had a composing hand in almost all the bands major tunes) as a bit too commercial andor accessible, but fans of straight-ahead rock should have no complaints.

Once again, Smyths vocals are delightfully raspy, utterly distinctive and undoubtedly supercharged. This is a bouncy rocker full of attitude and verve, and it truly stands proudly as one of the finest 80s tunes of all. Only a few early-80s acts proved themselves capable of straddling successfully the line between new wave and arena rock, but Scandal certainly qualifies as one of the best such bands. It simply has huge pop single written all over it in every way.īeyond that, the Zack Smith composition serves as a perfect vehicle for Smyths sassy, infectiously exuberant performance style. Heres a chronological look at the best 80s songs featuring Smyth on lead vocals, mostly drawn from Scandals two album releases but also sampling the beginning of her impressive but intermittent solo career.

Patty smyth scandalous rar