Ratt Infestation Loud & Proud / Roadrunner Records Loud & Proud might just be the most eclectic label out there today. In fact having Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sammy Hagar, Methods of Mayhem, Meatloaf, and Rob Zombie (among others) as labelmates is both intriguing and likely the way it should be. The label’s latest release is Ratt’s Infestation, the band’s first release in eleven years and an album that most Ratt fans figured they’d never see. Infestation features the rightful King of Sleaze, Stephen Pearcy, on vocals (let’s face it, none of us wanted to hear Jizzy Pearl on a studio album) and new guitarist Carlos Cavazo (Quiet Riot) and was produced by Michael Baskette (Chevelle, Alter Bridge, etc.) So, when we last heard from Ratt it was a terribly lackluster event. Maybe even disappointing. Apparently the boys from the Sunset Strip felt the same way because Infestation is song after song of Rock and Roll dominance. The album opens with “Eat Me Up Alive” which recalls the bands early works better than I could have even imagined. The band sound as hungry on this song as they did on Out of the Cellar, without coming off as cheesy or cashing in on the reunion gig. “Don’t Let Go” and “Garden of Eden” are similar and compliment it well. “Best of Me” is a little more commercial sounding ala the band’s late eighties/early nineties albums but I loved those albums so I enjoy the sound a lot. “Look Out Below” also delivers in classic Ratt fashion, particularly in the guitar soloing. It’s got plenty of groove and explosive solos, as does “As Good As It Gets.” And only one ballad! In an era when most reunited bands or classic lineups of those bands have failed to deliver new music that stood as an equal in their back catalog, Ratt is firing on all cylinders on Infestation. The album is a solid mix of Reach for the Sky and Out of the Cellar. Fans of both eras of the band will find more than enough to satisfy their hunger here. Infestation is pure, unadulterated Ratt & Roll. Bottom Line: If you like your rock full of memorable hooks, slick production, and gritty vocals then Infestation will be your new favorite album. Key Tracks: "Eat Me Up Alive," "Best of Me," "Look Out Below" Reviewed by: Mark Fisher <<Back To Reviews