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It’s funny because every time a new Meatloaf album comes out I hesitate a little. His bombastic Broadway-meets-Rock style has never been in vogue and few readily admit to listening to any of Mr. Loaf’s catalog shy of the original Bat Out Of Hell (which has sold 43 million copies) and possibly it’s first sequel. That said, he sells a respectable amount of records so you know that we are all listening behind closed doors. The good news here is that you can come back out of the closet with Hang Cool Teddy Bear.
Hang Cool Teddy Bear is based on a short story and takes its title from the cult classic film Beyond the Valley of the Dolls. In true Meatloaf fashion, the album also boasts a ton of guest contributions including those of Hugh Laurie (from the television hit House), Brian May (Queen), Steve Vai, Justin Hawkins (The Darkness), and comedian Jack Black.
What immediately catches you about this album is how stripped down it sounds. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a sharply produced outing however it’s not as massive, and dare I say cheesy, as Meatloaf’s last couple of albums. I underestimated how good of a thing that could be. “Peace on Earth” (which ranks among the best work Meatloaf has ever done),“Love is Not Real,” and “California Isn’t Big Enough (Hey There Girl)” all benefit by the down to Earth production style. If this trio of songs had been on Bat Out of Hell III I likely would have hated them. Even “Los Angeloser” with its goofy beginning rap or “Elvis in Vegas” with its potentially stupid lyrically content, come off as endearing instead of annoying or trying to by into current trends.
There are a couple of missteps here (that’s right, I’m looking at you “Song of Madness” and “Running Away From Me”) but overall this is better than almost anything Meatloaf has done since his debut. What I really love is that this proves that Meatloaf can produce something truly wonderful that does not fall under the shadow of the name Bat Out of Hell. Hang Cool Teddy Bear is well worth your time and if you believe me then you’ll be pleased you took the chance.
Bottom Line: The 'loaf is back and his singing his ASS off!
Key Tracks: “Peace on Earth," “California Isn’t Big Enough (Hey There Girl)”
Reviewed by: Mark Fisher
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