Mötley Crüe's Dr. Feelgood, released in 1989, stands as one of the band's most iconic albums, and is, without a doubt, one of the greatest hard rock albums of the 80s. Produced by the legendary Bob Rock, this album showcases a polished and powerful sound that blends the band's raw energy with a refined production style. Dr. Feelgood not only achieved commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with sales exceeding 6 million units, but also cemented their status as rock and roll legends.
Part of the appeal is due to the incredible album artwork that looks magnificent on the larger vinyl canvas. Of course, in 1989, CDs and the Compact Cassette had overtaken the vinyl record in album sales, but the striking nature of the album’s cover would have most certainly stood out in record stores worldwide. While I’m fortunate to own the 2008 Eleven Seven/Mötley Records reissue (cat: ESM/MR 342), a sonic marvel of a reissue, the artwork reproduction is sadly lacklustre.
Unfortunately, there’s a mottling effect that appears throughout; likely a by-product of the original album artwork being scanned incorrectly. The inner-sleeve liner notes and lyrics are reproduced clearly but the inner-sleeve artwork also exhibits this mottling effect. While it isn’t a major issue, and one should be more concerned with the sonic reproduction of their records, it’s an element that collectors may wish to look out for, should they consider picking up this particular reissue.
Of course, regardless of cover art, an album is only as strong as its songs and in this regard, there isn’t a bad tune to be heard for Dr. Feelgood is all killer, no filler; one that plays like a greatest hits release rather than a studio album. As it pertains to the 2008 vinyl reissue, the record is flat with a relatively low noise floor that is only audible between tracks. The mastering of the record, however, is spectacular. While the original album was mastered by George Marino at Sterling Sound, this particular reissue was re-mastered by Kevin Gray at Acoustech.
While the average music lover may be unaware, these two mastering engineers are revered and are known for pumping out some of the very best-sounding records. As to why Dr. Feelgood was remastered in the first place, I’ve no idea, as I would assume the original mastering would have been superb. Nevertheless, if you’re after a warm, rich, analogue sound with an enveloping and rocking soundstage that offers clear separation between all musical elements, and bass that will penetrate your soul, you can’t go wrong with this particular release.
While the vinyl reissue is sonically impressive, the same cannot be said for the lossless Apple Music stream. By comparison, it sounds flat and lifeless with a shallower soundstage. Of course, you can’t easily take vinyl with you; unless you’re into creating needle drops, that is. As a result, I seldom listen to the stream for it simply doesn’t compare, but if you enjoy the Apple Music stream, may I suggest that you don’t compare editions for doing so will only bring about frustration and it really isn’t as bad as my comparison above makes it sound.
T.n T. (Terror ‘n Tinseltown) is a great, to-the-point, starter track that is an ideal non-musical introduction for Dr. Feelgood.
Dr. Feelgood is a hard-hitting funk metal anthem, for the riff and rhythmic introduction is legendary; even if you’re new to the album and Mötley Crüe. Mick Mars’ sensational guitar riff, and performance throughout, is a highlight, but that could be said for the entire band as Dr. Feelgood is a textbook example of how to write, produce, record, and mix a killer rock and roll tune.
Slice Of Your Pie oozes with a bluesy groove and slows down the tempo of the album a little. It’s also great to hear a little Steven Tyler (of Aerosmith) in the song’s introduction, as well as on backing vocals, for his unmistakable vocal cues add to the overall appeal of the song. If nothing else, Slice Of Your Pie showcases the band's ability to blend different musical styles, combining their signature hard rock sound with a touch of blues-rock.
Additionally, if you’re a Beatles fan you may appreciate the closing elements that pay homage to I Want You (She’s So Heavy); one of their best songs from their legendary 1969 release, Abbey Road.
Rattlesnake Shake, with its swaggering rhythm and catchy chorus, delivers a high-energy rock and roll vibe that will see you toe-tapping and head-bopping from the very first note.
Kickstart My Heart is one of Mötley Crüe’s most well-known songs. The adrenaline-fuelled anthem, complete with rapid-fire guitar riffs and pulsating drums, creates a sense of urgency and excitement that will appeal to just about any music lover for it reaches into your soul and doesn’t let go.
Without You is a beautiful power ballad that showcases the band’s softer side without losing their edginess. The overall arrangement and layered production add a grandiose feel, but when you combine the emotional vocal delivery, and melodic nature of the song, particularly with regard to the guitar solo, it’s difficult to find fault in this classic tune.
Same Ol’ Situation (S.O.S) is an upbeat rocker featuring catchy hooks and a sing-along chorus. It successfully captures Mötley Crüe’s signature blend of glam metal and hard rock and quickly becomes one of the most enjoyable songs from the album.
Sticky Sweet brings back the bluesy rock vibe and Steven Tyler’s unique vocal backing. Interestingly, Bryan Adams is also credited for backing vocals, but his contribution gets lost in the mix. Nevertheless, between the playful lyrics and catchy rhythm, you really won’t have time to consider the individual guest vocalists on this infectious and memorable tune.
She Goes Down, with its raunchy lyrics and sleazy guitar riffs and overall rhythm, embodies the band's notorious wild side. It is, quintessentially, Mötley Crüe!
Don’t Go Away Mad (Just Go Away) features a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, creating a dynamic and engaging blues-based sound. While not a ballad, per se, the song’s catchy melody ensures that Don’t Go Away Mad (Just Go Away) is one of the album’s most memorable tracks.
Time For Change is not only epic, but it’s one of the greatest closers in all of recorded music history. Not only will it leave you in a reflective mood, but it will compel you to listen to the album again for Dr. Feelgood can seldom be listened to only once.
Dr. Feelgood is a testament to Mötley Crüe's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. The album's diverse range of songs, from hard-hitting rock anthems to heartfelt ballads, showcases the band's versatility and enduring appeal. Add to that its polished production and memorable tunes and Dr. Feelgood becomes a defining album in Mötley Crüe's discography and a must own/listen for any hard rock fan.