Survivor - Too Hot To Sleep CD

Survivor’s well-liked ”Too Hot To Sleep” album was originally released back in October 1988, on the American Scotti Bros. Records label. This last effort of the 80’s (without drummer Marc Droubay and bassist Stephan Ellis) turned out a heavier, more rocking and somewhat less commercial sounding affair, at least when compared to its highly rated, successful predecessors “When Seconds Count” (1986) and “Vital Signs” (1984). In a kind of way it marked a return to the slightly more guitar based style, which had been the band’s trademark in the early days, with all the catchy hooks and melodic sensibilities still intact.

When it comes to the overall performance and musical content featured, lead vocalist Jimi Jamison was undoubtedly in top form, as he contributed convincingly and powerfully throughout the entire recording, backed up by the solid rhythm section, juicy keyboards of Peterik and skillful guitar work by Sulllivan. Highly memorable numbers such as the heavy rockin’ opener “She’s A Star”, the super-catchy “Desperate Dreams”, title track “Too Hot To Sleep”, “Didn’t Know It Was Love” and “Tell Me I’m The One” immediately come to mind. The slightly harder edged “Rhythm Of The City”, long outdrawn “Here Comes Desire”, uptempo rocking “Can’t Give It Up” and heavy, melodic “Burning Bridges” must also naturally be mentioned, as they blend perfectly well in with those already mentioned, as well as with the soft, charting love ballad “Across The Miles”.

Aside from "Didn't Know It Was Love" (which made it to No. 61 in '88) and mentioned ballad, unfortunately, “Too Hot To Sleep” failed to make it big both saleswise and in the charts, despite the overall strong song selection and flawless performance by those involved. Record label politics might be to blame for that one. Or at least a part of the problem.

Label: Scotti Bros. Records

Country: Germany

Media Condition: Near Mint (NM or M-)
Sleeve Condition: Very Good Plus (VG+)

Circular retainers caused some indents