Alcatrazz were a neo-classical heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California. This band helped launch the career of two of the most accomplished guitarists in rock and metal. Formed by former Rainbow and MSG vocalist Graham Bonnet, he completed the first line-up with former Steeler guitar virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen, bass player Gary Shea (ex-New England), drummer Jan Uvena (ex-Alice Cooper) and keyboardist Jimmy Waldo (ex-New England). The debut, entitled 'No Parole From Rock 'n' Roll' became a scorching metal classic. But after the tour and accompanying live album, Malmsteen jumped ship to pursue a solo career. He was replaced by another up and coming axe-slinger, Steve Vai. He had already worked with Frank Zappa. 'Disturbing The Peace' was a commercial disappointment, and Vai left shortly after to reach superstardom with David Lee Roth, and later on a solo career. Former Rick Derringer and Alice Cooper guitarist Danny Johnson was recruited for the bands final album, that was panned by critics and fans alike for its commercialism and lack of direction. Upon the demise of the band in 1987, Bonnet began a successful career performing with Impellitteri and Michael Schenker among others, while Waldo was found on Quiet Riot's self-titled album.

Yngwie Malmsteen, Jan Uvena, Jimmy Waldo, Graham Bonnet, Gary Shea

NO PAROLE FROM ROCK 'N' ROLL (1983, 1992) MUSIC FOR NATIONS

Hailed as a metal classic, listening to Alcatrazz' debut, 1983's 'No Parole From Rock 'n' Roll', it's not hard to her why. This album is the epitome of neo-classical heavy metal. Taking the Rainbow sound, with flashy guitar leads, and melodic, yet very powerful vocals, to a whole new level. Much of this is of course contributed by former Steeler axe-man, Yngwie Malmsteen. Within years of landing in the US, from his native Sweden, this guitar mastermind had already done what he set out to do, namely making a name for himself as a world class player. And his stint with Alcatrazz just cemented his role in the rock and metal history. His skilled and tasteful playing on this album is what makes it so special. Here he doesn't overdo anything, but rather just play around the already working melody lines. Now, one cannot forget the role of powerhouse vocalist Graham Bonnet either. He is yet another world class name, putting his signature on everything he puts his voice to. And i think this might be my favorite moment with the golden voice, and that is saying a lot! Every song on this album are stellar, and they will give you hours and hours of quality listening time. But still I have my own favorites here also. "Hiroshima Mon Amour" is one, and "Big Foot" is another. What other band do you know have written a soulful song about the giant from the Himalayan mountains? Songs like "Island In The Sun" are of a more commercial approach (it was also released as a single), and it is easy to see how the band would ventured on in that direction when Yngwie left. But that is a story for later occasions. For now I'll enjoy this masterpiece!

Killer tracks: General Hospital, Hiroshima Mon Amour, Kree Nakoorie, Too Young To Die, Too Drunk To Live, Big Foot

Steve Vai, Graham Bonnet, Jan Uvena, Jimmy Waldo, Gary Shea

Related artists:

Impellitteri, Yngwie Malmsteen, Rainbow, Alice Cooper