Billy Squier

Don’t Say No (Capitol/EMI ’81) Rating: A-
This fun album offers no frills, straightforward early '80s hard rock. Although Squier sounds like Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant, albeit a much less masculine version, instead of Zep’s thundering rhythm section Squier’s songs are carried by cheesy synthesizers (or piano/keyboards) along with some of the flat out best guitar riffs of the ’80s. Granted, his ever-unsubtle lyrics will likely never win over the critics, but Squier does show a more reflective side on the poignant ballad “Nobody Knows.” Besides, catchy hard rocking tunes (not lyrics) are this album’s primary selling point, so I’d advise you to instead concentrate on the awesomely funky riffs of “The Stroke” or the majestic power chords that propel “Lonely Is The Night.” On the latter track, as well as on the almost as memorable “In The Dark” and “Too Daze Gone,” Squier shows an ability to deliver atmospheric dynamics in addition to sturdy riffs, while “My Kinda Lover” has the album’s most undeniable chorus (though it has plenty of competition). Fast, unfussy numbers like “You Know What I Like” and “Whadda You Want From Me” are also unpretentious and fun, as is the slower, slinky “I Need You,” and almost 30 years later this underrated album can still provide 38 minutes of hard rocking pleasure. Don’t say no.

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