Released in 1985, Ratt’s second studio release, Invasion Of Your Privacy is a defining record in the glam and heavy metal genre, brimming with the band’s signature mix of sleazy riffs, catchy hooks, and a polished production. Following on from the success of their debut album, Out Of The Cellar, this release further cemented Ratt’s place among the leading acts of the 80s hair metal scene; despite not matching the sales of their debut release. Nevertheless, this music lover finds Invasion Of Your Privacy to be the superior album experience as there isn’t a dull moment to be heard from start to finish.
Visually appealing, there’s little doubt that the album artwork alone would have sold copies for Marianne Gravatte is certainly easy on the eyes. Beyond that aspect, the stylistic design is perfect and more interesting than their debut was while also playing into the hair metal ethos of the era.
For those seeking out a new vinyl release, the good news is that this is one album that has been reissued extensively in recent years with the latest reissue being released in 2024 alongside a CD edition. While I’ve yet to hear them, and the only exposure I have to this classic release has been via the lossless Apple Music stream, it’s certainly on my Wishlist as it’s a top-tier release from 1985 and, in my opinion, a must-own.
Speaking of the Apple Music stream, while it isn’t an Apple Digital Master, that need not matter for the album rocks. Yes, it’s your classic mid-80s hair metal production, but that unique sound is also what makes it so enjoyable. Still, you’ll find yourself looking for the volume knob because Invasion Of Your Privacy should never be listened to at lower volumes; even if it sounds exquisite at those levels. While everyone’s opinion will differ, what I can say with certainty is that the stream offers a lovely reproduction with no glaring issues to report.
You're In Love opens the album with a bang, delivering a high-energy, riff-driven, anthem that sets the tone for what’s to come.
Never Use Love is full of attitude, gritty guitar licks, and a punchy rhythm that’s perfectly suited to Stephen Pearcy’s unique vocal presentation. With a touch of the blues, and a raw and little less polish than the other songs on the album, Never Use Love is one of the most exciting songs from the record.
Lay It Down is one of the most memorable songs from Ratt’s illustrious career. Released as the first single from Invasion Of Your Privacy, the opening riff instantly hooks the listener, while the soaring chorus and dynamic shifts throughout demonstrate the band’s knack for crafting wide-reaching radio-friendly hits.
Give It All has a swaggering groove that blends extraordinarily well with the song’s infectious hooks and sharp riffs. Pearcy, once again, delivers with vocals that exude confidence, but it’s the balance between all elements that ensures Give It All is a quintessential Ratt tune.
Closer To My Heart slows down the tempo and while not as noteworthy as some of the genre’s classic power ballads, Closer To My Heart is a stunning addition to the album, offering a brief respite from the record’s more raucous tracks.
Between The Eyes returns us to the riff-heavy style that Ratt is best known for. With Pearcy’s snarling vocal presentation, and the dual guitar attack of Robbin Crosby and Warren DeMartini driving the song forward, what you’ve got is one of Ratt’s most technically perfect songs with a mix that is simply amazing. Add to that the incredible vibe from Juan Croucier on bass and Bobby Blotzer on the drums and you’ve got a band effort that, despite not being well-known outside of the album’s structure, is one of Ratt’s greatest recordings.
What You Give Is What You Get has a slightly more laid-back strut when compared to much of the album, yet this number still delivers plenty of attitude and has one of Pearcy’s greatest vocal performances; particularly throughout the chorus. That said, one cannot overlook the exceptional musical bed as it demonstrates a band effort and is a standout recording. It’s, subsequently, puzzling as to why it was only released as a single for the Japanese market, for it surely would have done well on the charts throughout the world.
Got Me On The Line is a song that’s pure fun and has a playful energy that’s hard to resist; although that telephone ring at the beginning of the song is nerve-racking. Still, if we look past that aspect, Got Me On The Line is a lively number with a rhythm that will see you toe-tapping and head-bopping along.
You Should Know By Now seamlessly flows from Got Me On The Line and leans heavily into the glam metal formula with its catchy sing-along chorus and flashy guitar work. While it doesn’t break new ground, it’s a solid addition to the album and embodies the sound that made Ratt so popular.
Dangerous But Worth The Risk closes out the album on a high note, combining fast-paced riffs with anthemic vocals. DeMartini’s lead guitar work and Pearcy’s vocal performance are once again the standout elements, but the song’s relentless energy ensures that it will capture the soul of every music lover and will compel them to play the album again, for Invasion Of Your Privacy can seldom be listened to once.
Invasion Of Your Privacy is not only an exceptional followup to Ratt’s impressive debut, but this sophomore release proved, without a shadow of a doubt, that Ratt was more than a one-hit-wonder. Granted, the album doesn’t stray far from the glam metal blueprint they originally laid down, but it does offer refinement with impressive precision and flair. Pairing the higher production values with their incredible musicianship results in a dynamic combination that’s not only radio-friendly but has a raw edge that will appeal to longtime fans and newcomers alike.