Rhabstallion formed in the late 70s in West Yorkshire, England, and encapsulated the spirit of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, both in energy and musical style.
They proved extremely popular, especially live, and performed with such legends as Hanoi Rocks, Diamond Head and Saxon.
However, after only one single release and the odd appearance on compilation albums, popularity did not transform into recording offers and the band decided to call it quits in 1984.
All was not lost though, and in 2018 Rhabstallion took the courageous step to reform and they’ve never looked back.
Their first album after the reformation was 2021’s Back in the Saddle which had its own challenges after being created in the midst of Covid.
Now we have the long awaited follow-up, Bat Shit Crazy which some may say is a pre-requirement for the music industry.
The line-up is an interesting one, with all members dating back to when the band were around in the early days. The line-up since the reformation has been Jack Himsworth on drums, Graham Hooper on bass, David Thompson on guitars and Andy Wood on guitars/vocals. The only change has been the retirement of guitarist Stuart Toddington in 2023.
Spikiness
As for Bat Shit Crazy the album doesn’t have the spikiness of the NWOBHM but it has catchy riffs aplenty, lots of power and a big sound. What more do you need?
The album kicks off in tremendous fashion with the title track. Solid riffing, hard rocking and full of intent. This track really does set out the stall for the whole album.
“Better Late Than Never” carries on in the same vein and I can easily see it in a live setting with the crowd giving it plenty for the chorus. Tasty solo too.
“Now That You’re Gone” takes the song quality up a notch and has it all. Great storytelling, excellent riffs and a sublime solo. A standout track.
I found “Strength Within Me” to be a bit sluggish and formulaic but it’s one of very few swings and misses.
“Ghosr Dance” gets things back on track with its atmospheric opening. Powerful vocals and choppy riffs give this a unique quality on the album.
Another standout track comes in the form of “The House”. It has a very Iron Maiden-esque opening and there’s almost a vocal sound of Bruce Dickinson coming through.
Power
“Sold My Soul” is the fastest track on the album and nearest to Rhabstallion’s NWOBHM roots. Pace and power are the order of the day here, with a catchy-as-you-like chorus and superb solo. All boxes ticked on this top track.
There is more power next on “The Call,” with a background of intricate riffs that give the track great depth.
Adding to list of standout tracks is “Going Nowhere” with its understated entrance bursting into life with immense power and intensity. This track certainly gets the blood flowing.
Completing the album proper is “Who Am I” and is a top song to finish on. A headbanger’s dream, the power and pace hit the button, no doubt.
To see out the album there are two live versions of songs taken from the Back in the Saddle LP. “Driving Seat” and “Stand Up” prove just what a formidable live act Rhabstallion are.
Bat Shit Crazy is out now and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
BUY: Bat Shit Crazy
Check out my other articles and reviews here. Sparky.
