Released in 1985, Icon’s Night Of The Crime is an underappreciated gem from the glam metal and hard rock scene of the mid-80s. While it may not have achieved massive commercial success, it has since become a cult classic. Combining infectious melodies, searing guitar solos, and strong vocals to deliver a polished and dynamic sound, Night Of The Crime has a timeless quality about it, an aspect that will keep you coming back for more.

Part of the appeal is, most certainly, the album’s artwork as it’s stunning. While I haven’t been fortunate enough to own a copy on vinyl, there’s no doubt that it would look fantastic on the larger canvas, certainly far better than on streaming platforms. Yes, the artwork will never match the physical counterpart, but while not as impressive as one would hope, the lossless CD-quality Apple Music stream is utterly perfect.

It’s unclear whether this is the original mastering, or a remaster. Still, if we look at the details on Apple Music, it clearly states a publish date of 1985 and the files are supplied by Capitol Records, rather than Rock Candy; the label that reissued a remastered version on CD in 2005. Nevertheless, as I listen to the Apple Music stream I remain confident that it’s the original mastering as every musical element is perfectly positioned in the mix and there’s plenty of headroom meaning that you’ll feel compelled to turn the volume up and rock out.

Naked Eyes kicks the album off with a hard-hitting style that immediately sets the tone with its driving guitar riff and punchy rhythm section. Stephen Clifford’s vocals soar masterfully above the energetic instrumentation, delivering an anthemic chorus, thereby ensuring you’ll be immediately captivated.

Missing is one of the more melodic numbers on the album, but don’t let that aspect diminish this song for the mid-tempo groove is bolstered by atmospheric synths and another idealistic vocal performance from Clifford. Missing, ultimately, offers a perfect example of how a band balances power and vulnerability to create a lush and layered performance that still resonates today as much as it would have upon release.

Danger Calling embodies everything great about Night Of The Crime for the catchy hooks and galloping rhythm captures the excitement of the era. Danger Calling is, without a doubt, one of the best songs from the album and has all the markings of a radio hit. It’s interesting to note that it was never released as a single. What a missed opportunity!

Shot At My Heart is a driving song, there's no doubt about it, but be careful as you’ll find yourself toe-tapping and head-bopping as you pound your hands on the steering wheel. The power ballad structure, which then blends into a full-fledged rocker, is another example of the musical prowess of the band and Clifford’s exceptional vocal control. Seriously, he’s one of the best, and most underrated, vocalists in the history of rock music and Shot At My Heart further validates that statement.

Out For Blood has an incredible melodic opening with some killer guitar shredding before launching into a fast-paced rocker with a rebellious attitude. Capturing both the highly produced and polished nature of Icon, as well as their raw energy, Out For Blood is one of the best songs Icon ever recorded.

Raise The Hammer is exceptional! If you haven’t already, turn the volume up, for this hard rock number is magical and showcases the band’s technical skill, Dan Wexler’s guitar wizardry, and more of Clifford’s incredible vocal licks.

Frozen Tears is a power ballad in its purest form. The song’s cinematic instrumentation is a highlight and ensures Clifford’s impassioned vocals have the perfect sonic bed to lay upon. While it isn’t necessarily a standout, from the album or amongst ballads from the era, Frozen Tears is a lovely song that ensures the album experience is maintained.

The Whites Of Their Eyes returns the album to its faster, grinding, guitar-driven styling. The Whites Of Their Eyes may be easily overlooked as a straight-up rocker with an aggressive edge, but this thunderous tune would be incredible live as it has stadium filler written all over it.

Hungry For Love is another masterful tune that holds one’s attention, for its driving rhythm, electrifying guitar performance, and Clifford’s soaring vocals all combine to deliver another hidden gem.

Rock My Radio is a quintessential glam metal anthem, one with a sing-along styling that will leave a lasting impression. It’s the perfect way to close the album as it will not only encourage you to play the record again but will compel you to reflect on the music that you’ve just heard; a collection of songs that are amongst the greatest ever recorded.

Night Of The Crime is a stellar album that bridges the gap between hard rock and melodic metal, for its polished production, memorable songwriting, and skilled musicianship make it a must-listen for fans of 80s rock. Icon may not have reached the same heights as their contemporaries, but don’t let that dissuade you for Night Of The Crime has a deserving place amongst the greats and is, subsequently, one of the greatest albums from the era.