Talas 1985 Review

Talas come back from the mists of legends to take us back to 1985. This was the year they were supposed to release their first major label debut. But as fate would have it, Billy Sheehan, bassist extraordinaire, left the band for David Lee Roth's Eat 'em and Smile band. Finally, after 37 years, Talas returns. 

They never achieved arena headline status but were a local staple on the Buffalo, NY music scene.  However, they toured with Van Halen on the "1980 Invasion Tour" for 30 dates. 

Members Mark Miller on Drums, Billy Sheehan on Bass, and Phil Naro on Vocals rejoined the band. Kire Najdovski is the newest member on guitar.  Former guitarist Mitch Perry joins the band on two recordings: "Crystal Clear," and "On the Take."

Sadly, the recording stands as an epitaph to Phil Naro who after recording all parts passed away in 2021 after a long fight with cancer. 

1985 sounds like they never skipped a beat. 11 tracks of classic hard rock. All the songs were written back in 1985 except for one, "Black and Blue." 

The band is tight, harmonies are stellar, and they play with an infectious passion. They do an excellent job taking you on a journey back to 1985. I feel like jumping in my car and popping in a cassette of this and just let it crank. 

Speaking of cranking, the first song, "Inner Mounting Flame", is a great album opener and puts you in that rocking 80s mood. 

"I'll Take the Night, " is another rocker that keeps the vibes going. "Crystal Clear," is a song somewhat inspired by The Police. The verse starts off with the staccato guitar on every quarter note of the measure. Similar to "Roxanne". But that is the only similarity. There is no reggae feel. It is an all metal arrangement with catchy melodies and a great chorus.

"Don't Try to Stop me Tonight," is another song that keeps the album flowing.

The rest of the songs on the album are catchy and do not miss a beat. You will find yourself singing along. The musicians are excellent. Guitars are meaty and ballsy, Drums are pounding, vocals are powerful, passionate and full of attitude. And of course you have Billy Sheehan on bass.

The last song, "7lHd h," is an outstanding bass solo. It stands for "4 phil" in calculator speak. 

Musicians

Phil Naro: Vocals

Billy Sheehan: Bass

Kire Najdovski: Guitar

Mark Miller: Drums

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