Reviews (page 6 of 15)
Now this is a debut album
Classics all through the album
Surprised at how many songs I knew. One of the greatest guitar players ever makes a portion of every song go unbelievably hard.
A while back I heard Dave Lee Roth do an entertaining interview on a podcast. My big takeaway from that interview was Diamond Dave would be a horrible roommate but a fun neighbor (down the block or hall, not directly next door). I know I’ve said that before but it’s worth repeating. Trust me. *stares into sun*
Mid 4 I find van Halen weirdly irresistible
4 - This plays like a greatest hits album. Almost every song I know and enjoy by them is included.
I really do not like rock music in general, especially stuff like this. I have my moments where it’s fun and I’ll listen but will I come back to music like this on a regular basis? No. However, this album fuckin rocks and I WILL listen to this again.
4 out of 5. Short and sweet.
So many hits!
I generally shy away from "classic" rock artists and bands that my dad would love, "dad rock" and all. I respect their influence but don't necessarily enjoy a singular sound. Van Halen is legitimately impressive, by contrast. All the other commenters are rightfully pointing out the musicianship behind "Eruption." Favorite songs: "I'm the One" and "Atomic Punk."
I was really surprised by how much I liked this! Great range and contrast. A lot of fun to listen to this album.
David Lee Roth is a weird alien, but this album is very good. EVH is EVH. Also, I feel like DLR is channeling Burton Cummings a bit in Little Dreamer. I want to give a point deduction for spawning a decade of bullshit hair metal, but I won't.
Really makes me want to grow a mullet Best Song: Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love Rating: 7.5/10 Stars: 4/5
An incredibly charming album that expects not much from the listener except for them to like rock, catchy lyrics, and be in the mood for a good time. Optionally a banging set of speakers, too. The only downside to this is that it really doesn't challenge the listener, though I am speaking from the viewpoint of a first-time listener nearly 50 years after it first released. My favorite track definitely had to be "Little Dreamer", and in fact I like the 2nd half of the album far more than the 1st, but that may be because the 1st half is stuff I've heard a lot on the radio already. 4/5. It's a great album, infinitely re-playable. I just prefer stuff that's a little bit more unique.
It's a great album showcasing a lot of the best things that Van Halen had to offer. I do think David Lee Roth's cheesy showmanship is more of a pro than a con, but he's not my favorite. Van Halen's always been a singles sorta band for me and this one has a lot of their best singles so I really can't complain.
If I transport myself to a time when this record wasn’t out definitely a landmark in rock
This would have been a 5 if I could have had abit more of a listen, but this is purely based off the first listen and the songs I know. Catchy, fun, unreal guitar work, unreal voice
Superb debut probably one of the best debut albums of all time Don’t really need to express how much I think Van Halen changed the shape of rock music , such an iconic group Just some pure badass playing on this album a few of these I skipped as I’ve heard many times before Ain’t talking bout love is a classic that exemplifies everything about the van halen sound, the ultra futuristic riffing and pioneering guitar playing of Eddie , his solo playing on this is so right for the song , so nicely written, Running with the devil the bass of Michael Anthony pounding that muted E string and the signature backing vocals great classic , the flamboyant and eccentric diamond David Lee Roths signature charismatic vocals and the odd shout and scream lend to this track so well Of course there’s the iconic eruption that put Eddie Van halen on the map and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest virtuoso of the instrument Second half of this album id not listened to as much But had a few nice riffs and parts that really appealed the riff on Jamie’s crying I digged On fire was just pure heavy metal loved the screams from Dave Lee Roth the guitar work is fast and so well placed with the solos just class The bass underneath makes you realise how good Michael Anthony was just a pure powerhouse bass player Alex van halen , as a drummer myself can honestly say he’s such a rock solid player love the ludwig kit he played on with the double bass and he played a great shuffle like a signature of his on later track hot for teacher especially but on this album I’m the one Have to be good to this one and give it a solid 4 if it wasn’t for a few of those tongue in cheek tracks on the album mainly Ice cream man let’s be honest would be winding it up to a 5 But credit when it’s due for its time it’s a face melting debut
I enjoyed this album only 2 song I don’t think I will return to I’m looking at you atomic punk, and on fire, I can see why this band is very popular. Some of their best hits and hits that I knew before listening to the album we’re on here like running with the devil. what a great way to open up the album by the way, and Jamie’s crying along with ain’t talking about love very classic dad rock that is played religiously on classic rock stations to this day. It’s a good listen, excited to dive in a more Van Halen, but as an opening album, you can see why they got successful
I felt so cool listening to this
I always feel like I don’t much enjoy Van Halen but then I listen to it and I’m bopping along. I guess it’s turn your brain off music. You Really Got Me is the standout here, followed by Ice Cream Man
Feel free to give me grief, but my personal preference is that I like the Sammy version of Van Halen better than the David Lee Roth version. I'm just not a huge fan of Dave's voice, although I do appreciate him for being a great front man. Having said that, this album is one of the best Van Halen albums in my opinion. And to think it's their debut album makes it even more impressive. Lots of absolute classic songs and iconic guitar work. Definitely belongs in any top album list!
Killer guitar riffs, great hits and unexpected tunes.
Enjoyed this more than I expected! I thought it would be heavier music but it was just light enough for me to enjoy. Definitely not the type of music I would usually listen to but I can absolutely recognise the talent here and understand why I've heard of Van Halen so much before. Good stuff!
banque no soy super mega fan del rock pero me fascino este albun 4
I always thought I didn't like Van Halen. I mean. I hate 80s hair metal, and they're basically lumped into that genre. But this album was very convincing that Van Halen does not suck. Instead of sounding like the cheesy "Hot for Teacher" this album was more punchy rock. Eddie Van Halen absolutely shreds on every track, but most impressive is his solo on "Eruption". Yeah it's guitar wankery, but it's good. I do feel like the first half of the album is way stronger than the second. Heck, most of the songs on the A side were radio hits. But they also are each unique and don't have that generic hair metal sound, which by the way, isn't absent from this album, it just feels like this is more of a precursor of what was to come. So, no, I don't dislike Van Halen at least on this album (and somehow yet another 4+ star album from the late 70s for me), but maybe I do blame them for inspiring one of my most loathed music genres.
Classic. The guitar playing still hasn’t really been topped almost 50 years later.
"Runnin' with the Devil" is an all-timer. 'Eruption" is absolutely insane. "You Really Got Me" highkey preferable to the original. I know a lot more songs from this album than I thought! Love the riff on 'Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love' - would've been a defining personality trait if I'd heard it when I was 15 years old. 'Jamie's Cryin'' -- is this a cover? No it's not. Overall enjoyed, a solid 3.75 but will round up to 4
Thats a lot of guitar!
Exactly what I expected. In a good way.
I'm not a hair metal fan by any measure, but I can still appreciate the level of guitar work that's going on here. For a debut album, this rocks. A few big hits and nothing offensive. I'll give it a low 4/5.
this was such a fun album to listen to! my favorite song was You Really Got Me.
It was god and I enjoyed the instrumental part especially. Not necessarily my style but I liked it overall.
What a good time!
7/10
8/10 I normally don't listen to hard rock at all but this was a fun time. Favorite song is Jaime's Cryin'
With so many bangers on this album, it's no less than a 4. However, there are a few tracks that are skip-worthy. But all in all, it's a strong body of work. DLR and EVH bring it. My personal favorite moment on the album is that transition from Eruption into You Really Got Me....chills. This is quite the debut album, by anyone's standards. Top tracks: Runnin' With the Devil, Eruption/You Really Got Me, Ain't Talkin' Bout Love, Jamie's Cryin, Ice Cream Man (such a good song)
The start of it all....
8/10 so many good songs
Yet another band I don’t really know other than a handful of songs. This is classic heavyrock that is easy to like.
this is just straigh up awesome shit right here. the songs rock, the guitar riffs are insane and its just pure rock. runnin' with the devil is probably my favorite song off this album, incredible album starter!
Me gustó mucho la voz del vocalista, los solos de guitarra están muy buenos.
I can only imagine what this must have sounded like when it first came out and people heard EVH for the first time. Must have blown minds. This is a great first record and they only get better.
Pretty great. Not going to do an in depth review for this one but the eruption guitar solo was insane. Crazy to think that this is their first project as it is so good and sophisticated
Of all those late 70s/80s hard rock bands, give me Van Halen any day, especially over the likes of AC/DC. This thing rocks. The shredding talent of Eddie Van Halen is undisputed. They were a lot more power poppy than some of their contemporaries too, lots of good harmonies and vocal performances from Roth. Front end is better than the second, but all in all this is a great one
Pretty good! Did not expect that. Absolutely enjoyable 80s power metal.
Excellent album with some killer riffs and songs.
Runnin' With the Devil
This album is like drunken, unprotected sex with a lady that has a bit of a reputation for being a slut.
Starts strong with running with the devil. Showcases all of their strong points. Eruption in its day eas maybe something new, but just a track of a dude randomly wailing on a guitar with no melody seems out of place now, especially track 2. Some other great tunes after this though and Eddie is absolutely killing it on guitar throughout. Lyrically, its a bit pervy at times with how the speak of women.
Favourite Songs: Ain't Talking 'Bout Love Jamie's Cryin'
A solid start to this journey! I enjoyed this album a lot, I’ll likely listen to it as workout music. Saved in my library! ✅ I’ll give it a 7.8/10 for my first listen.
Running with the devil
Really fun!
I wasn’t into this idea, I won’t lie. I don’t know who I thought Van Halen were, but they aren’t. Totally changed my mind. Running With The Devil and Enterprise not my sounds at all, but You Really Got Me is a sick cover and by the time you get to the tight harmonies, I’m all in. Take it as the theatre that it is and it is brilliant. The guitar leaves me a bit flat to be honest but the vocals are the thing that got me
heck of a debut album. dad rocky
Eddie, good! David, corny!
The OG hair band- inspiring so many flashy hard-rock bands to follow in their footprints. Great guitar solo. I grew up listening to You Really Got Me. Van Halen Rocks!
Better than expected. I'm no big fan of the noodly guitar tapping that he is famous for. However there is some good stuff on here and i even find eruption bearable.
To je ta muska k bi jo zarad kitare mogla vec poslusat
What was the guitar arpeggio in "Eruption" 😲? Never really heard the guitar being used as a piano like that. All in all, this is some tuff, melodic dad rock that probably kickstarted 80s glam metal.
Nothing like a good old classic to start the day. Great album!
Really talented people who I first got introduced to by my dad. Few things that really stand out is the guitar and the great vocals.
Didn't think I would like it but the vocals and the guitars were both great!
Why the fuck is Running with the Devil sequenced before Eruption?
I prefer the more melodic tone of Van Hagar, but still good fun
Baustelle, Gerstetten, Deutschland. Feine Platte.
This is a very classic album, some heavy hitter all timers on here. Top heavy though. The A-side of this album is completely loaded with amazing songs. The B-side grows a little bit stale in comparison, though it's still very good and definitely none of the songs are bad. It is a super fun record with tons of memorable guitar riffs and vocal melodies. Absolutely one of the better albums on the list. 4.2/5
I have listened to 1984 632 times but somehow never listened to this album. In my defense I was only 4 when it came out. Very technically clean, lots of energy and a lot of fun. I can see how you would get tired of it if you listened like 718 times but Eddie and David were quite a combo. Two handed is the only way to tap. 4.3 stars, my only ding is that the second half of the album was a bit of a comedown.
Once again, I wish we could give half stars, but I'll round up in this case. This album starts so strong, but kind of peters out, at least song-wise, by the end. Still, what an exciting and dynamic debut.
AMAZING
Fantastic album that defines the beginning of a generation of new music
not a big metal fan but this has some great songs on it.
Ekstremt kult album, kommer til å høre mer på denne.
Shocked this is their first album. They really kicked it off with a bang Favorite Songs: Running With the Devil, Eruption
I’ll tell my friends I rated it 5. Very good album, incredible first effort, amazing songs.
this album screams rock and roll to me. from the groovy basslines, electric guitar solos, and heavy vocals. i love listening to something that fully immerses me into the time and place. i want to be in a smoky dive bar in a tiny band tee and skirt with teased hair flirting with a boy who looks like he can drive stick and play the drums.
Found a lot of new songs I like
Big fan - classic rock, mad riffs, covered You Really Got Me which I didn’t know. Much more fun and funky than anticipated.
I feel like I’d have to be driving down a freeway in a 78 mustang to really get the maximum enjoyment of this album. Certified classic
Other that the “ice cream man” this album is solid
Not quite my style, some great songs.
Damn Dimebag owes a lot to Eddie.
Fortunate enough to have seen this band in concert and well familiar with their hits, but admittedly had been awhile since I had listened. Boy what a masterpiece this album is!
good
goes hard with lots of van halen classics.
Great album, my first time listening to it. Didnt expect to like it as much as i did.
This is what I wanted from gun n roses solid 4!
well, I dont like metal, rock etc BUT. THIS ALBUM IS INSANE!!!! i love the most part of the songs, in geral - 8/10!!
Alright so the negative, initial thought is this album is outrageously front loaded. I'm talking this is in my mind currently fist fighting Goodbye Yellow Brick Road for its place as the most front loaded album I know of. But are those first 4 songs excellent? Fucking certainly. The other point is that the other front loaded albums aren't written by Van Halen, and thus outside of comparing the initial 4 or 5 songs, are not quite as good as this. I don't really have to say more on it. David Lee Roth and Eddie Van Halen are still famous to this day and this album is almost 50 years old and especially Eddie is still held in insanely high regard, partly for his showings on this album and how he changed the game almost instantly with Eruption. I said before Revolver would be the highest 4 I rate but this was surprisingly close competition. Best songs: Ain't Talkin' bout Love / Runnin' With the Devil Worst songs: N/A Rank compared to everything else so far: 17/52 (below Revolver, above Nevermind the Bollocks)
Proper rock baby
Feel You love tonight gran canción
A true banger of hard rock
Runnin' with the devil - 5 Eruption - 4 You really got me - 4 Ain't talkin' 'bout love - 3 I'm the one - 3 Jamie's cryin' - 5 Atomic punk - 3 Feel your love tonight - 2 Little dreamer - 4 Ice cream man - 3 On fire - 3
Favorite track: Feel Your Love Tonight
I am a bit biased as a guitarist here. I find some Van Halen stuff amazing even though my brain sort of knows that it can lack musical sophistication. The lyrics are not particularly amazing but it cannot take away from the beauty of those guitar tapping solos.
Van Halen is not only great because of the tight music and insane guitar works - it’s also interesting, creative and varying in its style. Very cool!
tiene todos los años este album q, lo mismo q digo siempre no me gusta este genero de musica pero es lo q hay ñañaña track 1: no tengo mucho q decir la vdd, runnin with the devill, el video tiene tan mala calidad aksdjlk, m dio risa cmo se coordinaban el de la guitarra y bajo track 2: esta cancion debia ser el intro del album btw, solo de guitarra sirve concepto.com, increible, durisimo bro debia ser el intro explote de rabia, guaaaaaaaaaasiowuiwo (sonido de guitarra ok) track 3: el video tiene tan mala calidad q siento q estoy escuchando desde un pedazo de torta, U REAALLY GOT MEEE, he was serving hair and waist go diva, si me gusto pero ns q comentar uwu track 4: hola ???, cmo vas a iniciar una cancion asi, increible, un aplauso cmo siempre al guitarrista asi es, no amigos esta gente derrochaba magia siempre wtf q buena cancion, cambio por completo mi punto de vista del rock. best one btw. track 5: The saddest part of life is when the person who gave you the best memories becomes a memory, me gusta el coro, q hacia el guitarrista amigo 40 años han pasado y estoy asi :O, show SHOW, q ?? era ?? ese ?? bridge ?? ok no le tenia nada de fe y aqui estoy hypeada con este album wtf track 6: otro video de mala calidad, ok sigan sirviendo blurry underground concept, ARREGLEN ESOS VIDEOS AAAAA, ou ou ouuuuu, no escuche una mrd q video tan malo llore, bno si escuche pero no es cmo q tenga la super opinion, btw no me gusta tanto q repitan el coro. track 7: el ?? inicio ?? qn descubrio el cosito q se sube y se baja en produccion akjka, ATOMIC PUNKKK OU YEAHH, los track 7 nunca decepcionan, de vdd quiero entrar a la mente del guitarrista y sabe q pasaba por su mente hola ???, uaaaaaaaaaaaa. track 8: la vdd no tengo mucho q decir, los anteriores tracks la rompieron, este no es malo, es mas cmo para bajarle revoluciones al album, no es q me encante mas alla de la guitarra.... track 9: espero no volver a hablar de los intros de las canciones PERO este es espectacular, pienso q ya dije todo. track 10: aca si me pierden por completo no, q extraña cancion sobre helado... track 11: ya me canse de hablar del guitarrista hagan algo, bno si me gusta cmo termina el album, pudo ser un peor ending (track 10) FIREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE, todos sirven cabello diva ok esta jodido q los videos tengan tan mala calidad (de q se quejaba) el guitarrista solo derrochaba magia asi es q seria de esta banda sin el guitarrista ok, decian q se enfermaba y q no podia estar en el concierto y nadie iba, yo lo se ok mañana me caso con una guitarra aviso a todo el mundo soy una quejetas el album esta increible, creo q ya puedo escuchar rock gracias :3 de los mejores debuts de la historia gracias
I lost weight the first time I heard Eruption. This has some of the best guitar work ever recorded, also the rest of the band is pretty good. Mostly boomer cock rock fluff, but this album was certified platinum in my playlists when I was 19 so I'm a little sentimental for it.
Overall Rating - 3.91/5 (7.82/10). As a first album, this is insane. These guys absolutely shred. Even where it's not as good, it's still high quality hard rock.
Such a fun rock record. Yes - they are pretty corny. Especially David Lee Roth - but- that's part of the charm. And while Eddie's guitar is what makes this band so special, they'd be nothing without hooky, catchy songs. They repeat themselves quite a bit by the time we get halfwaya through the B side. And The Brown Sound gets a bit tiring. But then they mix it up again with "Little Dreamer" and "Ice Cream Man" - so - it all works out in the end. Overall and excellent debut and an excellent guitar rock album that completely changed that genre for good. FOUR STARS
Second Van Halen album I've had, second one I liked a lot more than I thought I would. Very good start to finish.
Expected this to be significantly more cheesy - this is great. That intro riff to Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love is awesome. The album is technically great, and fun to listen to. Really good throughout, without taking itself too seriously - what's that shoo-wop bit in I'm The One all about. Does what it says on the tin, and then some. And at 35 minutes, it doesn't overstay its welcome either.
Well I’m sold
Nice cheesy 80s Hard Rock. Also what is probably the first 'true' Glam Metal album proper, probably. I went in thinking I would hate this but I ended up liking it more than I thought. This is the type of stuff Hells Angels used to listen to so its a pure testosterone fest.
not my vibe but i understand the popularity
Pretty good. Like rolling with the devil and you really good me.
Lekker Eddieeeeee
Surprisingly many titles I recognize. Good rock, not exactly my style
OMG I’m three songs in and this is what my January needed 🎸 ❤️
Not exactly my cup of tea, but the album itself is good. Perfect for some headbanging.
Great rock. Eddie is so casually excellent it’s easy to just listen to him the whole album and forget the songs are rocking too
Disco increíble, en algunos temas junta varios estilos. La guitarra es una pasada en Erupcion. Increible.
Goede degelijke rock met goede gitaarpartijen
I was surprised by how many songs I knew off the album. Not something I’m listening to every day but definitely understand how it influenced a lot of other rock bands
Incredible debut album, all guns blazing, fast paced, hard rock music. Heavy riffs, experimental sounds, hard drums, a ripping bass & powerful vocals on par with a prime Axl Rose. I also believe the album flows perfectly, has its lows & highs in the right order to give an engaging listen. Eruption is an incredible showcase of how good of a guitarist Eddie Van Halen actually was. He uses the double-tapping method which became popularised through Van Halen’s work. I don’t personally think it is contender for best guitar solo ever, as I don’t believe it’s that enjoyable to listen to and is more just a show case of his capabilities. I in fact enjoy alternative guitar solos on this album more. It is impressive nether the less. The cover of “You Really Got Me” just doesn’t hit the spot for me, the voice and changing of original lyrics felt not right and actually slightly irritating for me. This has definitely intrigued me to listen to have a deep dive into Van Halen and see what else they have to offer in their later work as this is absolutely great. Each band member has highly technical capabilities and they each try to showcase that in their art, something all artists should aspire to do. Favourite tracks are: ‘Runnin’ with the Devil’, ‘Atomic Punk’, ‘Ice Cream Man’, & ‘On Fire’.
It's the third great album in a row, unbelievable. I'm not a fan of metal, but there are exceptions. And this is one of them. I love it. I had some of these songs in my playlist a long time ago. You Really Got Me is a great cover of The Kinks. I don't know if it'll be bumped up to 5 out of 5 in the future, but for now it's solid... 4/5 —————————————— Liked: — You Really Got Me — Ain't Talking' 'Bout Love — Atomic Punk
wasn't expecting to like this this much. bring back howling and growling and whining and whimpering in rock songs (ref. you really got me). ice cream man turned me on
slayyyy (too short)
It's all in the guitar. Rock On. Good album.
So much better then 1984. Ain't Talkin Bout Love in particular is an excellent song.
Heck Yeah!!
Awesome. Hadn't listened in ages, and it hasn't lost a thing.
Overated eddi van halen
Shouldn’t the band name just be Eddie Van Halen
I enjoyed this album. There are a few songs on here I already knew, and I ended up adding them to my liked playlist after listening to them again. I can see myself blasting this album in the garage next summer.
like
8/10
8 / 10
So many hits for a debut album. Great introduction to world - especially Eruption/Runnin’ With The Devil. The combo of those two songs introduced EVH’s skills to the world.
как для своего жанра очень хорошо, но не за мэтчилось с сегоднешним моим настроением, для меня этот жанр слишком поверхносный по лирике, но гитарные партии ахуенные
It's hard for listeners today to realize just how much this album sounded like nothing that had been heard on the radio before. This album planted the seeds of hair metal in a field full of disco and punk, and also caused tens of thousands of budding guitar players to spontaneously combust. Eddie Van Halen's technique, precision, and sheer speed blew minds across the country, and defined how rock was going to sound for much of the next decade. This was a band that had honed their craft in countless bar gigs, and by God, they were TIGHT - the timing, the harmonies, everything polished to a mirror finish. None of the songs are anything special by themselves (though I have a soft spot for the lesser-known "I'm the One"), but the performances were everything, and they set rock music on fire.
Vildt fedt? Nogle af de vildeste riffs, og tuningen på guitaren er ret unik, meget positivt overrasket!!
Guitars: shredded. Highlights: Runnin' With The Devil, Eruption.
Very fun listen. Recognize the first song as well.
Never listened to one of their studio albums but pleased to report that pretty much all of this could sit comfortably on their Best Of
This album definitely heralds a new branch of metal/hard rock. It’s brash and dumb and cool. I’m not a maximum guitar solo guy so this has a ceiling for me. I’ve been building an ice rink in my yard for 6-7 years, and made friends with a goalie in the neighborhood who does music writing for the Chicago Tribune. He has an extensive record collection and an audiophile setup with 300lb speakers, and $10,000 a piece components. He had us over for pizza, beer and loud music - he plays his music live venue loud. Running with the Devil was the first song he played and it was bitchin’.
Van Roth over Van Hagar. Classic hair metal band with one of the most iconic guitar players to have ever played the instrument. The bass player on this album is also great.
Solid, some classics on here, no duds.
14 year old James would be very happy. This album is pretty damn good, and gets one of the most iconic guitar solos to boot. I'll say 4/5.
Classic jock rock stuff. Some hits, some stuff I hadn’t heard that surprised me
Good guitar, good album. 8/10
Fav songs: Feel Your Love Tonight, Ice Cream Man
Ripper, can’t go wrong
More 80s hair fun.
True classic
We like this
Good. Good.
Some iconic bangers and overall a great album but there were a few stinkers
One hell of a debut. Some serious bangers, but a few of the songs do not reach memorable status.
Some power tunes to cheer you up and hit the gym! Or the aerobics class!
Played a lot, Eddie Runnin with the devil You really got me Jamie's cryin
I liked it, dont listen to a bunch of rock by myself so this was cool to get to
I’ve listened to this one before and it’s awesome. Feels like a big party. I’m big on whammy bars so this is great. The cover of You Really Got Me was really interesting. They complexified (is that a word?) it and made it very much their own, and I think it’s a testament to how hard rock drew from a lot of the same influences as punk, despite the fact that it’s a lot more glam and a lot more complex and high-concept. The cover of Ice Cream man is equally as interesting. It provides a dynamic shift at the perfect time, right where I find myself growing a bit tired of the consistent high energy levels. The vocals are impressive and I love blues rock. Eruption is my favorite track. And yes, I do play guitar, and I am quite annoying. The suspense of the opener, Runnin With the Devil, is really well done. It starts on this low, almost creepy note then devolves into a total party. I love the little bursts of guitar noodling throughout. It gives a sense of spontaneity to the whole thing. The production definitely sounds a lot like Led Zeppelin II. I’m the One (like the Descendants!) definitely has a Black Sabbath influence at times, and more whammy bar, and that fun bridge part! Feels like live music and I love live music. The vocals are also incredibly impressive. I can’t take myself seriously when I hum so being able to make those vocalizations and make them sound raw requires a lot of confidence, as well as talent. The sort of raw, party-like energy of it reminds me a lot of Appetite For Destruction, except I find GNR obnoxious so this is way better (tho they are objectively good I guess…sigh…). GNR sounds like frat boys but Van Halen comes off as more punk. Ofc, the closer On Fire is also perfect. It seems like an almost call to arms…not, like, politically, but just because they wanna have fun. It perfectly sums up the rest of the album. To recap: Favorite songs: Eruption, Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love, Atomic Punk, On Fire Least favorite songs: Feel Your Love Tonight (still a banger though) Rating: 4/5 Similar albums: Led Zeppelin II, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, Appetite For Destruction
I knew the first four songs plus Jamie's Crying. The guitar speaks for itself and the drumming is solid as well.
An electric debut album that captures all the quality of the group from the vocal to the drum work to the outstanding guitar playing.
Hell yeah brother
Favourite Songs: Ain't Talking 'Bout Love Jamie's Crying
Really enjoyed this one. Incredible guitarist, some ridiculously impressive solos and the Kinks cover is brilliant. Very impressive for their first album. Look forward to (hopefully) hearing more by Van Halen.
Classic 70’s rock
Buen disco de rock el primero de Van Halen. Sin ser muy heavy ni ser muy metal, se las arreglaron para ser lo suficientemente rompedores de manera que mostraron el camino a muchas bandas posteriores que se beneficiaron del sonido honesto y poco pretencioso del grupo. Sin ser fan ni de la banda ni del estilo, la verdad es que su escucha se hace interesante y descubres algunos temas muy rescatables, como el que abre el disco, que ya fue exitoso en su día pero nunca me había parado a saborearlo como toca.
Really sick album. An incredible debut album for the band.
Most excellent. One of the best hard rock albums ever by a band not called Led Zeppelin.
4.09/5 Stars Top Songs: Ice Cream Man, Runnin' with the Devil and I'm the One
It's good
The notion of the guitar as a musical instrument was forever changed when this record came out in 1978. Rock music already had produced some unbelievably gifted guitarists: Jimmy Page, Tony Iommi, Joe Perry, Eric Clapton etc.: but Eddie Van Halen was something else entirely. Imagine hearing 'Eruption' for the first time in '78 and possessing a strong urge to snap your guitar in two because there's no way you'd be able to outdo EVH. That's the seismic nature of Van Halen's debut record. 11 songs. 35 minutes, and more than plenty energetic, party-ready anthems to keep you exhilarated from start to finish. Those first four songs: 'Runnin' With the Devil', 'Eruption', 'You Really Got Me' [a Kinks cover], 'Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love', 'I'm the One' and 'Jamie's Cryin'' constitute one of the greatest Side A's of all time, and while the second half is not quite as memorable, there's still plenty of charismatic rockers to keep the good times rolling. While Eddie Van Halen is, of course, the true star of this record, with his guitar virtuosity changing the appreciation of the instrument overnight, you can't go without recognising David Lee Roth's impressive chops as a front man. He wasn't the most technically gifted vocalist of Van Halen [Sammy Hagar had a much better voice imo], but Roth's charisma, energy and larger-than-life character add plenty of excitement to Eddie Van Halen's wizardry, and there's also the unsung heroes of the band in bassist Michael Anthony and drummer Alex Van Halen [Eddie's older brother], who manage to hold the blistering speed of the band together with finesse and fervour. This is where it all began for one of rock's most revolutionary and influential bands, and is the very reason so many guitarists went after speedy, tap-heavy guitar riffs in the 1980s: few matched Eddie's level though! Best songs: That legendary first half [Runnin' With the Devil through Jamie's Cryin']
The bad songs on this album are the ones that don't feature shredding wankery. This is why we listen to Van Halen, folks.
I went in with preconceived notions of what this album was about. And I wouldn't say those notions have changed. But the valence I associate with those notions (bad) may have changed (to good). At the very least, I'm willing to round up the 3.5 stars I think this deserves to a 4 star album.
Eddie was one of a kind. There’s no telling how many guitarists picked up the instrument because of this album alone. His tone and those tapping solos still sound unreal. The showmanship between him and David Lee Roth basically set a standard for all the 80s hair metal bands to follow. Favorite song: On Fire
Classic songs, really enjoyed the ride.
Good classic rock.
The album that inspired many guitar players to become unhinged. Also, the background vocals on this album are wildly overlooked.
"I can't remember if this album has any hits." - partner, as the opening notes of Running With the Devil came on. It was in fact stacked with hits.
The only bummer is "Hot for Teacher" isn't on here. Fun!!!!!
This feels cool. I only know a couple of songs, but it feels familiar and it’s easy to listen to. Ahhh, you really got me is a cover- I know the kinks version. I’m starting to wonder if I should listen to these on chronological order..:and also how much this is messing up my suggestion algorithm.
High energy glam
Classic
Ive heard a lot of the songs before. some were very unexpected, but cool
I really liked it! Running with the devil sets the scene so well, then eruption has a really nice sound throughout. Going through the album, it does get a bit samey, but there’s some other sounds on here that I enjoy. Ice cream man is a verified banger, and Jamie’s crying and feel your love other highlights. However, the skips retract from a 5 star status.
This rocks.
Another nostalgic album for me
Van Halen
Their best album? Eddie sounds great.
Love it. Rock and roll at it's purest
Obvious. Unbelievable album. Love evh guitar tone. Cool songs. Brought rock back.
Such a classic sound, both clean and dirty. Quite a few deep cuts I've missed!
It's pretty dated, cheesy, and over-the-top, but still a lot of fun. Eruption alone makes this album worth listening to.
Hair metal \,,/
Loud, fun and energetic. I don't think, particularly, that this album is so revolutionary as most people say. Also, Van Halen II is better in terms of songwriting.
Banger. Crazy guitar riffs. A short but succinct overview of Van Halen imo.
Very strong first half. Eddie's guitar simply off the scale, so satisfying to listen to. I found the songs trailed off a bit in quality in the second half but still a good overall listening experience.
Super classic with attitude and a bunch of good songs
Just super duper cool and love the tone of everything. Definitely more of a 4.5 than a 4.
Way better than 1984.
Despite never thinking of Van Halen as a group worth exploring, I went in open minded and can honestly say I was blown away. This album is full of personality, swagger, and is hard hitting.
Surprised I liked it
Hell Yeah. The hits on the album are definitely the shining stars here, but you're likely not disappointed by the other songs on the album. I think the other songs actually end up establishing a pretty high floor so that hits to then really be great. I think it speaks volumes about what you think about your band if you're putting a guitar solo (in the most literal sense) as the SECOND track on your DEBUT album. What's really incredible is that it works out perfectly and is one of the best songs on the album. Favorite Song(s): Eruption, You Really Got Me, Jamie's Cryin', Ice Cream Man
Pure rock and roll, this band knows what they’re doing. From the drums and vocals to the bass and lead guitar, no time is wasted or moment spent waiting. High energy and powerful every step of the way. They were truly a wonder to listen to!
Favorite Track: Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love
Good stuff! Much better than I thought. I learned something new today.
This is a classic album, even though for me 1984 is always the first Van Halen album I think of. It's a good time, and I don't mind it at all. And holy crap that logo...I can almost smell the iron-on t-shirt at the mall. But it sure is cheesy and over-polished, and maybe that's a good reason for punk kids from the 80s to reject this music. 50 years later, this holds up surprisingly well, but realistically I probably won't be revisiting this any time soon. I cannot even imagine what it was like to be a member of Van Halen in 1978. DLR is basically waving his dick around on the album cover.
It’s quite the opening three tracks - WE ARE VAN HALEN, killer guitar solo, then a cheeky cover of a classic. That’s one way to start a debut album! I feel like I’m getting a mullet perm just listening to this… … and then ‘Ain’t talking about love’ 😮💨 stop it Eddy! Yeh, this is 🔥 Drops off in the second half though. Nice breakdown for ‘Little Dreamer’ and ‘Ice Cream Man’ which helps balance things a bit. First half so solid, second half less so. So probably just squeezes a 4
All timer. The best 4 song intro to an album, solid rock all the way thru
Love this album! Just raw and loose!
Great!
You really got me cover is soo good FUCK I bet shiv spanks it to Eruption while watching clips of roommates arguing with one another
Good stuff
Boy! I wish I hadn’t written these guys off as “Stoner music“ in the seventh grade. Of course, they rock so hard! And Eddie Van Halen‘s guitar work, while now strangely sounding like a parody of itself, at the time must’ve just blown people‘s minds. they are incredibly skilled and very fun to listen to.
great album
Great introduction to Van Halen. Excited to explore what else they have to offer. Classic rock FTW!!
Happy 70's!
Banger
I wanted to hate this album. Van Halen and David Lee Roth are/were prima facie what was uncool about popular music and what the alternative movement was going against. However, this is actually really good. For all of David Lee Roth's horniness he is still a great rock Singer. Eddie's pop guitar playing means that the songs are good and catchy. I would have never listened to this album without the list and I am glad that I did.
Much better album than I expected really set the stage for 80s heavy metal bands
This was ridiculous, cocky, awesome, goofy fun. I like that they don't take themselves seriously for a second. This is how you do it without that off-putting hipster irony a lot of 2000s bands employed.
This is a tough one but I am going to round up. If only these guys came out a decade earlier or later… but as it stands, the 80’s cheese holds them back for me.
Наконец-то я понял для себя прикол Ван Халенов. И ведь правда, как же он играл... КАК он играл, этот белый патлатый брат!
Decent 7.5/10
Eddie's guitar, Dave's screams, and a Barber-Shop Quartet (I'm the One)!!
Classic
Best Van Halen there is. Rocking out on a Saturday night or a Sunday morning.
This was a very nostalgic album for me. A lot of these songs were favorites of my mom, and I must have listened to this album with her at some point.
Tosi Van Halen. I like it. Kunnon meininki ja oikeaa soittoa.
JEAAAAH! Hyvä meininki, mielenkiintosta, mutta ei mitenkään liian eriskummallista. Aika luonnollista kuunnella jos nytt niin voi sanoa
Kind of wild that this came out in the mid(ish) 70's. Definitely ahead of its time. Enjoyed more than I expected. 3.5/5
so fun - 1st 6 tracks fantastic, the rest is good, but Feel your Love sounds just like Panama.
Crazy debut with tons of energy. Sounds like a bunch of high school guys full of testosterone with their hair on fire. Eddie is coming out the gate like a comet.
Legendary riff after legendary riff. Great hard rock album, and Eddie's masterwork on the guitar is pretty obvious from the start of their career. Not much variation on the tracklist, but why mess with a good thing? fav tracks: Runnin' With The Devil, Eruption/You Really Got Me, Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love
A real rock n roll album. My favorite part is the satanic song having very nice, melodic guitars
"Little Dreamer" my favourite!
Vaaarios clássicos.
I just need to get this out the way - I accept that EVH is a talented and innovative guitarist. I know he is good, I am just not a fan of his style. So to the album - it’s a tight, rocking set. I don’t know what I thought it would be like, but it’s not as hard as I thought, and not as hair metal as I thought. I quite enjoyed it. My issue is EVH’s tendency to showboat, which isn’t easy with DLR in the band! Eruption is a perfect example of one guy showing us all how terribly talented he is, and these are the tricks he can pull off. The tracks on here (bar Eruption) are great. It is a band working as a unit, and the consistency of the album is incredible. It’s fun without being tacky, and it’s rocking without being heavy. Good stuff.
Great guitar sound, some legendary riffs and solos
Classic 70s rock
Lively
Listens: 2 Standout Tracks: Atomic Punk, Little Dreamer I basically didn't need to listen to this album; As it turns out, I've heard virtually every track through osmosis over the radio at various points in my 36 years on this Earth. That being said, hearing it all together in a cohesive format was great. The guitar is great. The singing is great. The off-beat parts where they break into a shooby-doo-wap is fantastic. Of all of the similar genre bands I've heard so far from the List, this album by Van Halen is near the top of my personal favorites for the rock and roll genre.
Täähä oli hyvä lätty, kyllä tää vanhempi heavy metal iskee ihan mukavasti. Muutama biisi oli taas tuttuja, mutta suurin osa albumista kuuntelematon. Eruption ansaitsee eritysmaininnan yhdestä kitaramusiikin legendaarisimmista sooloista. Vahvan nelosen albym, mutta ihan vitoseen ei riitä.
Tiukkaa, hyvin soljuavaa soitantaa! Aiemmin tuntemattomat biisitkin raikasi ihan mukavasti.
Erinomainen levykokonaisuus. Soundia on kopioitu lähes loputtomasti, mutta silti kappaleet eivät kuulosta kuluneilta.
8/10
My mates brother, who was a guitarist, played this to us not long after it came out and no one could believe it! I still think it’s their best album today. Fab cover of You Really Got Me and Ice Cream Man is just nuts! Love it.
Much better
Das Debut von Van Halen - rock pur. 4/5
From the Wikipedia: Initial critical reception was negative Those critics heard Eruption, a song that is widely considered one of the best guitar solos of all time, and said "Meh"? Who the hell are these critics?
Sometimes what you really need is to listen to delicate, intricate and nuanced music which speaks to your soul and challenges your perception of what music is; how, why and to what end. To feel, experience and connect on an intellectual and spiritual level with the notes, chords, lyrics and atmosphere. And sometimes you just need to listen to Eddie Van Halen shredding his way through the 1-2-3 punch of Running With The Devil, Eruption and You Really Got Me.
Le début par en bombe mais la fin est pas mauvaise mais pas aussi excellente que les 4 premières tounes disons
Ça bang et c’est bon
So many hits! Was really surprised that I already knew just about every track on the album!
8/10
Not their best, not their worst, somewhere in between. Definitely didn’t have the top-to-bottom bangers that either of their first couple albums had, but good and entertaining all the way through. Definitely starting to get into more synth than i like, and DLR was kind of wearing thin at this point, but still a nice effort.
I don’t know if this is the first glam “cock rock” record to exist, but if someone told me it was, I’d believe it. I don’t really need to explain how iconic this album became. You want to know why Eddie Van Halen was one of the best guitar players of all time? Just play this record. Fucking Eruption man, what the fuck else proof do I need? Ok, all that out of the way, I don’t find this album perfect. My biggest gripe is that it’s front loaded. All the best songs are on Side 1. Side 2, outside of Jamie’s Crying, feels mostly like b-side material. And not in a “unknown gem” kind of way, but in a “not as good as the hits” kind of way. And on a personal note, i kinda sorta sometimes find David Lee Roth a little annoying. Listen, I get it. David’s charisma is insane and when he’s good, it’s amazing. But sometimes, he’s goes a little over-the-top for me and it gets under my skin a bit. That Ice Cream Man song in particular was a bit rough. But yeah, it’s fucking Van Halen’s debut. You’ll be hard pressed to find an album with a hot streak like Side 1. Favorite track: Eruption/You Really Got Me (these songs NEED to be together. Otherwise, it’s like getting Oreos, but only the cookie parts and no cream) Other hits: Ain’t Talkin’ Bout Love, Jamie’s Crying, Runnin’ With the Devil, I’m the One, Feel Your Love Tonight
Is it big? Yes? Bombastic? Absolutely? Style over substance? Sure. Is it also a ton of fun? A ripping album for a road trip? A reminder of what rock is? Yes to all of that too. It's a blast.
Album Cover Art Review - 8-10 - the guys in classic rocker poses, well lit, different colors, great logo in the middle. Nothing else needed for debut album. Van Halen - burst onto the scene, rock never the same, insane album, can't even imagine how it landed in real time. No one could prepare for what was unleashed on them. Magic in a bottle for sure
This was fun. Some of the songs were a bit boring but overall I enjoyed listening to this. There's something so nostalgic but timeless about these songs and I can see why they've stood the test of time. It's better than a 3 but not quite a 4 for me, but I'll give it a 4 because it's better than neutral.
Giga cool, jestem fanką
Decent
Best Van Halen. Really changed rock back in. 1978
I enjoyed this more than 1984. It had more swing/swagger in the music and didn’t feel like it was diving too far into a polished, produced sound.
All around a pretty great album. It feels like 70s concert energy as an album, crazy guitar solos and everything. The radio hits are pretty good, the deeper cuts are really good, and it was just really fun. Also the guitar solos are violently 70s in the most fun way possible, I know I mentioned them twice.
First song great, erruption milestone 4/5 star
Divorced dad rock - still a fun easy listen
Fun
The first half of this album is great, the second half is average. What there is no denying is that Eddie Van Halen knows how to play a guitar and Diamond Dave knows how to high kick and jump. Now obviously I couldn’t see him do that but I know what he’s up to….
Van Halen: Van Halen: This shit rocks. Its a LITTLE samey, but the song quality is so high I really don't care, and the first half actually has some pretty good variety. The songs are just so much fun and have so much energy its basically impossible to dislike them. 9.5/10
This record opens with a pretty sweet Doppler effect horn sound that evokes a sort of crash landing of a car or spaceship. As a creative production choice, it's a real statement that something is about to happen. It's clear that this band is mostly a vehicle to feature the insane virtuosity of Eddie's face-melting guitar shreddage. This band has such a funny blend of influences. Diamond Dave Roth's vocals are often delivered like he's singing a show tune with a top hat and a cane and jazz hands. It's almost like cabaret hard rock. They are really out to give you the old RAZZLE DAZZLE, aren't they? The backup vocals and melodies all hearken back to their 50s and 60s rock and roll precursors, but definitely updated for the time. This album showcases a wide range of influences. It's at once swinging, doo-woppy, jump bluesy, hard rockin', soulful, folksy, garagey, and groovy. It has both razzle and dazzle. There's a real classical aesthetic to Eddie's guitar licks, with occasional hard chords. He uses a lot of little interstitial melodic licks here and there that are ornamental and almost act as a backup singer. The rhythm section is what tends to deliver any sense of heaviness. Otherwise, the compositions are often playful and basically just good time party music that doesn't take itself too seriously. They're basically a Muppet Show version of a hard rock band. Highlight tracks include "Running With The Devil" (a freakin penny whistle? are you kidding?); "Atomic Punk" - just a fun no frills rocker; "Ain't Talkin About Love" - probably the most serious song on the record, and the most horny and in need of a pee test; "Ice Cream Man" - a perfect example of the aforementioned cabaret show tune style pushed through a late 70s hard rock frame; and the 40s-50s inspired sing songy closer "Jamie's Cryin'". The more filler sounding tracks are still pretty unskippable. Simply put: despite its excesses and occasional wankery this record rules. The album art is great. The multi-color gel lit photos of the band convey an energy and vibe that matches the contents, and although predates it by many years, suggests that they are kinda like Voltron: more powerful together than on their own. (This was pretty much proven in later years during the Great Band Schism that gave us Van Hagar). The iconic logomark really takes center stage here, however, with a design that suggests a hot rod hood ornament or a medal given to fighter pilots. It's like they knew we're gonna be seeing that on everyone's Pee-Chee folder for the next 25 years. Would give it 4.5 if this dang contraption would let me.
Some good bits.
Excellent and energetic hard rock played by very talented musicians. The whole album is very strong and one of the best debut albums, the band’s sound was already defined very well. Eddie Van Halen’s playing is spectacular as it always is and the energy is infectious. 4/5
Good listen, but only felt like one song was particularly compelling. Not sure why, but they're just not quite my cup of tea.
oh no I really don't want to listen to this... but well I am already here why not listen to it. Turn out to be good. Lot of guitar playing would remind me of Bad Brains which I was once extremely obsessed with. The overtone. Growing up in an era where you skipped the albums but only listened to those singles everyday, that is how I firstly listened to Van Halen. Now listening to the whole album all at once would bring different feelings. Metal rendition of blues song is quite funny. Like that.
I was shocked to like this album as much as I did. There's not that much guitar wankery as I first thought and there are even some solid tracks here. Ice Cream Man is the only real misstep and it's not even that bad.
Unbeatable hard rock classic! Catchy as hell, energetic and perfect for having a great and carefree time!
A classic. Impressive, innovative debut.
Crazy
I of course know a lot of Van Halen, but I don’t believe I’ve ever listened through an entire album of theirs. We all know EVH is a guitar god. Listening through proves that. The guitar is part of the entire narrative of the music. It all makes sense when you listen. That guitar has its own life. lol This was quite enjoyable.
Album No. 0003 on my list. I had known some of the songs before, but had not ever listened to the full album. I had some expectations regarding the music, and they were pretty much met. Short, energizing rock songs with innovative guitar work. I also had no expectations regarding the lyrics. And my expectations were pretty much met. They are pretty bad. But as I said - did not expect a 2nd Dylan here. All in all, I enjoyed listening to Van Halen’s debut album and I can certainly see why this album has been so influential. It basically preceded most of 80s rock music and was really something innovative in 1978. 4/5!
I am not a fan of Van Halen, really. I can't get into David Lee Roth's whole squealing party boy shtick and I've never been a fan of Guitar God-style playing with all the crazy million-notes-per-minute shredding. That said, I completely understand how this album made this list and why a lot of people really love it. Eddie blends that Guitar God stuff seamlessly with some really tight, catchy pop songs with great choruses and all that. This album had like 7 songs that are still in the cultural consciousness today. That's one of the greatest debuts in the history of 'em. I didn't hate it at all, and I can appreciate the prowess, even though I'm not enticed to return.
Really great front to back.
Some all time classic jams here. Eruption and Ain't Talking About Love are my favorites.
It would have been a thrill to see Van Halen tour this album, with Diamond Dave's showmanship and Eddie V's virtuosic licks. I enjoyed this album a lot. Standout track: Ain't Talkin' Bout Love
Bueno
Honestly felt very classic in sound. A lot of timeless songs that still sound good today. I knew about eruption and knew that it was very famous, but honestly didn't like it that much on this album. I'm sure that if you're a musician/guitar player that it's very impressive and cool, but as a more casual listener it's a bit too much
Runnin' with the Devil Eruption You Really Got Me Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love Jamie's Cryin'
Det er fanme dumt men det er fanme også gennemført. Det her album skulle ikke være et sekund længere
Lots of bangers! Pretty much how I define the 70's (rock) sound
Another debut album, this time from Van Halen. There are a few Van Halen songs that I like, but those sings are not on their debut album. When this album was released there was no music like this - rock with slightly more of an edge. Because of that and Eddie Van Halen’s guitar playing, I need to rate this album higher than average.
Pretty good for a debut album! 4.3
Cover 6 Yes! Fun songs though no real substance. So... Just for fun only
Some classic tracks on this album. A lot of it has been overplayed at this point but listening to the full album was a great reminder of how solid of an album this really was.
classic rock record, legendary solo, has some forgettable tracks though
One of my favourite openings to an album is this. “Runnin’ with the Devil” leads into a run of songs which showcase Van Halen at their very best. “Eruption” highlights the talent of Eddie Van Halen in a little over a minute and a half, and then a rockin’ version of “You Really Got Me” leads to my album highlight of “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love.” A solid debut that I don’t think they topped with their subsequent releases.
Probably their best album. Few weaker songs but so iconic. Like being electricuted.
Probably the best for Van Halen. Which if you’re a fan would be great but as a casual listener was just moderate. Still more listenable than others on the list.
Some great songs on this album. Hair rock when it was reaching its peak.
Surprisingly good.
3.5/5
I had this when I was younger. But I didn’t realize until today how much it represented a bridge between the Led Zeppelin era of 60s/70s hard rock and the “stadium rock“ of the 80s. Not sure how I feel about that theory, but for better or for worse, this is a solid album!
7.5 / 10 - Some classics on this album, not quire worthy of 5 stars despit me loving eruption, just needed that lil summin summin extra
Good all late 70's Rock. Before they went massive with MTV. A lot of classrooms nuggets [and do not bring up Sammy Haggar)]. Fun and harmless
Full of energy and charisma, Van Halen's debut album contains to rock! Variations on the blues, metal, and rock and roll collide to give birth to glam metal and influence an entire generation of artists. There is a lack of variety on the album but given it's relatively short runtime this isn't necessarily a bad thing. A very enjoyable listen packed with classics
Classic album, can almost taste the cocaine in every song