Songs From The Sparkle Lounge - Def Leppard

Although this album wasn't given the greatest views by some magazines, I and many of my other friends think it is one of the best albums Def Leppard have created. It has a modern sound but still includes their extremely unique, signature sound. This means that not only do the band appeal to their usual fans from their prime era, but also every other age imaginable as they keep us guessing with each new track.

1). Go - This is a great way to start the album with the new modern sound from the band that blows us away. Although not one of my favourite, it definately sets a good tone for the album. We immediately remember Collen and Campbell's skills as they remind us of our favourite sound.

2). Nine Lives - The first single to be released from the album and it certainly is awesome. The muddling sound of Tim McGraw at the beginning confused me slightly, as his country voice just sounds slightly out of place. However, it becomes apparent the intention of this action because as soon as Joe Elliot's vocals hit the song you are literally blown away. We can certainly see he hasn't lost any of his talent over the years.

3). C'mon C'mon - A catchy tune that is a favourable choice of theirs at gigs, it's no wonder really as it has the perfect lyrics to get a crowd going. The clapping sound includes the fans and the easy lyrics can be learnt by new fans on the spot. It has a minimalistic feel in the verses with just Rick Allens insane drum skills keeping the rhythm going and then a few riffs linking the lyrics together. As soon as you reach the chorus your pumped up and ready to sing the ever so easy words.

4). Love - Possibly one of my favourite Def Leppard songs of all time because it's just so simplistic but heartfelt at the same time. This won't appeal to everyones taste as it definately isn't everyones cup of tea but it just has one quality that some people will absolutely love. The acoustic guitar is beautiful and in the later piano version we are astounded by the skills.

5). Tomorrow - Another motivational song, much like 'C'mon C'mon' , that really is a great tune. Elliots vocals are absolutely amazing and their signature harmonies keep us in great spirits. The lyrics are again quite simplistic, but they seem to be perfect as the instruments just say everything. One thing Def Leppard are perfect for is a unique sound, as they really know how to keep switching things up.

6). Cruise Control - This song has a sort of electronic feel and definately has a different sound than they normally go for. The high pitched backing vocals are a good addition, that add something really quite interesting. The crashing of the cymbals in the drum section are simplistic but genius when it comes to certain parts in the song. Elliot's vocals seem to change constantly here and it shows how varied he can make his sound, a definate skill of any true vocalist.

7). Hallucinate - Definately one of my favourites and I can't even put my finger on why it is! It just has a great quality that really makes you want to get up and dance. The guitar is upbeat and the perfect pace for moving around to. The drums and guitar seem to be having a love affair between them in the opening as they just bounce off each others skill. The vocals are as always completely on point, you really could never fault this band.

8). Only The Good Die Young - One of Campbells contributions the the album, lyrics wise. It has great lyrics for sure, the sound is very different and it just keeps the album ticking on nicely. Again, the vocals are something different, more current and a big asset to the song. The guitars are awesome together and create a great melody that just pulls everything together.

9). Bad Actress - At gigs this is also a favourite of theirs to perform because it is simply a great song. One that keeps the crowd pumped and just has a really fun sound to it. The guitar sound is great at the beginning, giving us all the different sounds we want to hear. The drums are just as fantastic as usual, Allen is truly is inspirational with his complex skills. I feel that Savage isn't mentioned enough, playing bass is hard to stand out but without his constant sound running the songs would fall apart.

10). Come Around - I don't think of this song as one of the best because it just keeps the album ticking along nicely. It doesn't stand out because it isn't up to their insanely high standard. Still a good song in fairness with it's quirks, such as percussive sounds. I think it sounds almost too modern for them and doesn't satisfy the listener.

11). Gotta Let It Go - I think this song is awesome, it just has such a good sound. The guitar is mysterious and repetitive in the opening and Elliot's vocals are great. In the bridge I find the high pitched part of the vocals slightly strange, npot my favourite part of the song. The chorus is simplistic but full of impact.

Overall, this album is totally astounding, marking thirty years of Def Leppard and by no means the end of their success. It gives hope to all their fans as it shows that they really can produce amazing song after song. Not only is this album for all you faithful fans, it's also for your daughters, sons, mothers, fathers and anyone else you know because it just appeals to everyone! It has a song for everyone and you'll find yourself listening to it a lot.