Artist: Del Shannon Album: Rock On!

Year: 1991
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Del Shannon's Rock On!

Del Shannon is one of the most influential singers of the rock and roll era, crafting his unique sound with an unforgettable falsetto and piercing electric guitar work. His album titled 'Rock On!' was released almost a decade before his tragic death, showcasing his creativity as a songwriter and musician. In this blog, we'll take a look at the album and its most iconic tracks, analyze its sound, and explore the musical history of Del Shannon.

Del Shannon's 'Rock On!' was his twenty-third studio album, which was released in 1991, just two years before he tragically died by suicide. It included covers of some of the famous and influential rock songs of the twentieth century, including The Beatles' From Me to You. The album reflects Shannon's style and sound, which has been a significant contribution to the rock genre. He used his unique tenor voice and falsettos to sing the melody with rockabilly influences and guitar riffs, which melded together into an entertaining musical whirlwind.

One of the most significant aspects of the album's sound is the distinctive distortion and reverb effects applied to the electric guitar. Del Shannon collaborated with producer Jeff Lynne, famous for his production work with ELO and The Beatles. Together, they crafted many of the tracks on the album with a modern and polished sound, leading to an exciting and fresh take on songs that already hold a place in rock history.

The album's strengths lie in its message and its emotive quality. Tracks like Walk Away and I Go To Pieces display Shannon's ability to convey heartfelt messages through beautiful lyrics and strong vocal delivery. Meanwhile, Shannon's signature falsettos take center stage in covers such as Stranger in Town and Sea of Love, creating an emotionally impactful album that is still celebrated for its unique sound today.

However, not all tracks on the album were hits. Some critics found the album lacking innovation and unique sound, feeling as though Shannon's style had already been overplayed and saturated before Rock On!'s release. Nevertheless, this album still stands the test of time, with its distinctive sound and emotional delivery garnering new fans years after its release.

Overall, Del Shannon's Rock On! is a must-listen for all rock fans, containing tracks that emphasize the emotional and impactful delivery of Shannon's music that can still resonate today. It's truly a shame that its release was near the end of Shannon's career, and fans can't help but imagine what other musical masterpieces he might have created. Despite the album's mixed reviews, it remains a remarkable piece of rock history and an essential listen for anyone looking to explore the genre's roots.