Description
In 1983, the album Sucker For A Pretty Face was released by Eric Martin Band. The band entered Prairie Sun Studios (studio where most of the 1980’s Shrapnel Records albums were recorded as well as many other top recording artists) and recorded songs for the follow-up album Looks Can Be Deceiving before they went out on tour with ZZ Top. Due to an unrelated dispute between band manager Herbie Herbert and the newly appointed CEO of Elektra Records many years prior, Eric Martin Band were dropped from their contract, and the newly recorded album was shelved. Y&T quickly recruited guitarist John Nymann, City Kidd (later known as Tesla) nabbed drummer Troy Luccketta, Gregg Rolie would bring in guitarist Mark Ross for his self-titled album and the band fell apart. Eric Martin went on to help form the supergroup Mr. Big. Now 40 years later this shelved album sees the light of day. Looks Can Be Deceiving has many of the AOR elements as the the Sucker For A Pretty Face album, but also brings a little more of a hard rock edge (which is a step closer to what Eric would be doing in Mr. Big). The album opens up with the song Pictures (only song on the album that would get re-recorded and released by Eric Martin on his first solo album). This original version has a much more upbeat almost Bruce Springsteen vibe in some parts. This song should appeal to all mid-80’s melodic hard rock fans. Up next is the title track where Eric’s voice and emotion really comes through. Tracks 3-8 have special guest keyboards played by Loren Gold who is known for playing in the bands The Who, Chicago and touring with Rush. The last track on the album Brand New Face features original keyboardist Dave Jacobsen and is a super upbeat catchy song made for the radio. This album is a must have for fans of the genre. Mr Big, Survivor and Journey fans just need this one
Track list:
1. Pictures
2. Looks Can Be Deceiving
3. Read My Lips
4. Action And Adventure
5. Love Is On The Line
6. Outside Looking In
7. Mental Breakdown
8. On Your Side
9. Brand New Face