Customer Reviews

Exposed

5 star:		(14)
4 star:		(7)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

***** - FIVE STARS
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Ok, I'll admit it, I'm a huge Crue fan, and have been since the early 80's. That being said, I was still highly cautions about Vince's solo career, and purchacing this release from him...

So many great singers in the past, who eventually decide to go solo, seem to get lost in all of the hype, and in return losing focus on the final product. NOT WITH VINCE. NOT WITH "EXPOSED".

This is simply incredible, and as much as it pains me to say it, Vince may be better off without the Crue boyz. If can keep this up, and continue to put out releases like this one, he'll have no need to rejoin Motley Crue at all. "Exposed" rocks harder than anything Crue has done since the late 80's in my opinion. Trust me, It's that good....

Guitarist Steve Stevens shreads to no end here. He's got a bluesy, yet very hard edged sound, and he adds tons to the overall power of "Exposed". He and Vince are an excellent combo.

If you're a Motley Crue fan, and gave up on them after the 80's like I did, you need to hear what Vince has been up to since then. "Exposed" completely cranks. You can't put a price on this masterpiece, it's a wonderful "rare" find, and I only wish I had heard it ten years ago!!!

AWESOME!!!....

A bunch of artists who started in the '80's were forging refined and disciplined material by the beginning of the next decade, material that was largely ignored by a demographic coming to terms with responsibilities beyond haunting the local record store awaiting the latest release from glam/spectacle rockers like Vince Neil. Such is the fickle vagary of the music business. Kurt Cobain wasn't helping matters either.

The caustic Crue divorce over, Neil beats his estranged Motley mates out of the starting gate with Exposed, sounding closer to a Dr. Feelgood follow-up than the dense and oppressive disc that was being welded together in an underground steel factory by Nikki Sixx and company.

In a stunning example of profound rock n' roll wet dream double billing, Billy Idol alumnus Steve Stevens agrees to sign on and provide the sundry musical fortification over which Neil delivers vocals that are thick, comfortable and inspired. Where Neil's Feelgood vox were oddly thin and over-processed, his singing on Exposed comes across robust and lusty. And Stevens, whos role in the Billy Idol outings was pivotal yet bridled, is an equal player here showcasing varying styles that range from a crystal clear jazz-rock vibe all the way to uncontained in your face, maniacal, honey-dripping hard rock candy that blows the doors off any restraint from producer Ron Nevison's highly polished sheen. Stevens' licks flow with a liquid grace not unlike slow motion mercury rupturing forth from an overheated thermometer.

'Sister Of Pain' is a goodtime party rocker, a spirited drunken table stomping romp. 'Can't Have Your Cake' cooks with rollicking abandon. 'The Edge' is an impressively dramatic piece with a smartly thoughtful and complicated arrangement, kicking off with rolling waves of acoustic spanish guitar. Interestingly, 'Can't Change Me' sounds like a clone of 'Time For Change' from Dr. Feelgood. 'Set Me Free' is a pulsing rocker and 'Living Is A Luxury' is again another example of the extraordinary attention taken to song arrangement on Exposed. It is dynamic, elastic, and super-tight - all at the same time - with a cool extended jazzy-instrumental coda going into the fade. In 'You're Invited (But Your Friend Can't Come)', a sassy hit single overflowing with pep, Stevens flashes his trademark Flash Gordon ray gun fx. It is the pleasing melodies of mid-tempo ballad 'Forever' that bring this hard rock gem to a close.

After eliminating any Motley Crue misconceptions a critical listen may lead you to find that Vince Neil's Exposed is a worthy, virtuous, and unfairly overlooked musical gift indeed.

This solo CD from Motley Crue lead singer, Vince Neil is a true heavy metal masterpiece. This CD is outstanding. The lyrics are incredible, the guitars and drums are loud, and Vince's vocals are phenomenal and sound even better than his earlier days in Motley Crue. This album proves that without the Crue, he can also write his own handful of excellent tunes other than just Nikki. For those Vince Neil fans, this is the perfect CD for because it truly shows how talented Vince is not just in singing but in writting and creating his own album.

The opening piece "Look In Her Eyes" proves Vince is a master of heavy metal. As the heaviest song on the album, this is also the best song on the album. The lyrics are top quality, the numerous guitar solos are phenomenal and the guitars are so loud and heavy that it just blows you away. The song is a true masterpiece that stretches over 5 minutes! The next track, "Sister of Pain" is a continuation of the genious opener. The drum work on this track is excellent and the top-of-the-line lyrics along with Vince's vocals shows Vince at one of his best moments ever. This tune is a real party rocker.

A couple tracks later, you have another excellent rock and roller "Fine, Fine, Wine." This is a real rockin tune that contains a catchy chorus and genious lyrics. This definitely ranks up in the Top 5 for the album's best tunes. The next track, "The Edge" is a great tune about livin on the edge. In the lyrics Vince reflects what life in Motley Crue was like and how it was livin on the edge. The first ballad "Can't Change Me" somewhat sounds like a replica of Dr. Feelgood's "Time For Change." When you first listen to it, you almost think Vince is singing the same song. But the lyrics are about a man who has set his ways and they can't be changed. He's chosen a life and you can't change it.

A couple tracks later, you jump to "You're Invited (But Your Friend Can't Come)" is a good party tune. The song title explains the lyrics perfectly. Overall, this is an excellent song with really good riffs and beats. This is a good rocker anyone can enjoy. The closing track, the second ballad "Forever" is 5-Stars all the way. This is the perfect wedding song for any couple. The lyrics are so passionate and loving that it can even bring a tear to your eyes. This song is one of rock and rolls greatest ballads ever.

This is the perfect album for those Motley Crue and Vince Neil fans. The album has it all. Excellent lyrics written by the master of the mic himself. The guitars are loud and heavy, the drums are thunderous. If you're looking for a new CD, this is a must buy. Buy this album and Vince Neil will take you for a ride of your life.

Like other writers in this forum have stated, Vince screams his heart out in Exposed. Vince's voice makes Motley Crue and if you listen to the album the band made without him, you'll agree. I never bought Motley's self titled album, because it wasn't Vince. I bought both of Vince's solo albums and they are both awesome . . . metal!! Every song is great and the hard songs really rock. New Tattoo is a bust as far as I'm concerned. Hell on High Heels is the best song, but it goes downhill from there. That's not a knock on Vince, it's a knock on Nikki for writing bad songs. Go back to the old stuff, and mix in Vince's style of songs as well.

3. 5 Stars

The start of the 1990s looked promising for Motley Crue. The band had ruled the 1980s with massive tours, videos in constant rotation, hit singles, and had five multi-platinum albums under their belt. 1991 saw the release of yet another platinum hit, the greatest hits retrospective "Decade of Decadence."

In 1991 Motley Crue signed a multi-million dollar contract with Elektra Records. Indeed,
The 90s looked as though it was going to be a great decade...but it was not to be.

In 1992 Vince Neil suffered two sharp blows. First, he was fired from Motley Crue (although the rest of the band maintains that he quit). Second, the rise of grunge and alternative rock rendered Motley Crue's music and style obsolete.

Vince Neil ruled the 1980s as one of the decade's most popular and charismatic frontmen. His sunny California sunset-strip, bad-boy image fit the 80s metal scene like a glove. In the 90s, however, Neil was suddenly and unexpectedly out-of-place. Despite a shift in the musical climate, and without a band, Neil didn't miss a beat.

Soon after leaving the Crue he assembled a new band. Billy Idol's right-hand-man Steve Stevens on lead guitar, Dave Marshall (guitar), Robbie Crain (bass), and Vikki Fox (drums).

Technically, Neil's new band was as good as the old one (except for maybe the drum department). Guitarist Steve Stevens was really the centerpiece of the new outfit. Stevens is one of the most gifted guitar players of the 80s metal genre and is a far, far better player than the Crue's Mick Mars.

The spring of 1993 saw the release of "Exposed." It debuted respectably at number thirteen on the Billboard charts and sold a few hundred thousand copies. The showing of "Exposed" was a far cry away from the huge success of "Dr. Feelgood," (1989) released only a few years prior. Still, in an era where Pearl Jam and Nirvana ruled the rock world, "Exposed" was a moderate success, relatively speaking.

"Exposed" lives in a vacuum, completely unaware of the changes that have taken place in the state of rock. In an age of flannel and honesty, "Exposed" is a complete throwback to the superficial flashy 80s.

It's been established that "Exposed" is retro, but how do the songs measure up? To be honest, the album is a bit of a letdown. Considering the talent involved, with Steve Stevens on guitar, this album should have been exceptional. As it is, it's pretty good, but not great.

The problem is not the band. The band sounds great. They are tight, muscular, and energized. Stevens playing throughout the album is phenomenal. Killer, killer solos pervade each and every song.

The problem with this album is the songwriting. The band had the talent, but they didn't have Nikki Sixx. With Stevens on guitar, the Vince Neil Band of '93 may have been technically better than the Crue, but they didn't have a great songwriter. While the album sounds great, it lacks substance. Most of the album is quite good, but there is nothing quite as memorable as "Wild Side," "Looks that Kill," or "Kickstart my Heart."

The album gets off to a great start with the fantastic "Look in Her Eyes." It's fast, has a great hook, and a long, long, intricate solo. "Sister of Pain," although a little cheesy, is effective and also has a good hook and sing-along-chorus. The band sounds great on "Can't Have your Cake," but the hook just isn't there. "Fine, Fine, Wine," is good, but not great. It's fun to listen to, but ultimately forgettable. The album gets back on its feet with the groove laden, infectious "The Edge."

Of course the album needs its obligatory power ballads. "Can't Change Me," while no "Home Sweet Home," is still quiet good. A cover of Heathen's rapid-fire "Set Me Free" far outshines the original. The mid-tempo, cocky "Living is a Luxury" keeps up the momentum and is a nice change of pace. "Your Invited (But Your Friend Can't Come) is just filler (a far better version can be found on the "Encino Man" (1992) soundtrack). The mid-tempo "Gettin' Hard," while not the album's strongest track, has a good hook. The album closes with the power-balled, would-be arena anthem, "Forever." While "Forever" is rather generic, it's effective.

Overall, it's an enjoyable album, even if the songs aren't very memorable.

In an age of flannel shirts and depressing songs, "Exposed" was totally irrelevant and out of place. However, Neil should be applauded for sticking to his guns, following his heart, and not jumping on the flavor-of-the-month bandwagon. If "Exposed" is anything, it's sincere. That's probably its biggest asset.

If "Exposed" had been released just three years earlier, it probably would have gone triple platinum. As it is, the album just didn't come out at the right time and has been reduced to bargain-bin fodder. That's a shame to, because while "Exposed" may not be as strong as "Too Fast for Love," (1982) or "Shout at the Devil," (1983) or "Dr. Feelgood," it's still a decent album. It's at least as good as "Theatre of Pain" (1985). If you're a fan of Motley Crue, or flashy guitar work, this CD is worth checking out.

this is the album that could have out done dr feelgood. steve stevens is insane and the rest of the band is A-1. This album rocks but go grab the one with the extra tracks

I heard a track from this album way back in '93. I liked it, but never bought the album, and radio never pushed any more than that.
So... that was that.
I picked up this cd from the "Box of Junk" from Eddie Trunk's "Friday Night Rocks" radio show in NYC.
It sat on my shelf for over a year...
Then I decided to bring it to work to give it a listen.
WOW!!!
I wish I bought this album back in '93.
I was a fan of early CRUE.... the first album and especially "Shout At the Devil".
After that..... eh.
It was about the songs, because Mick Mars is just a basic guitarist, and Vince Neil is an alright singer.
But this.................
I'd be more interested in hearing more of this than CRUE anyday!!
Steve Stevens is an awesome guitarist, just rippin' it up through every song.
The song's are very good, not 'great'..... but, Steve Stevens makes 'em listenable over & over again.
I wasn't a fan of Billy Idol, albiet I knew Steve Stevens was good. I jus' didn't think he was this good.
If you're a guitar rock lover.... this is an album for you.
Good songs, great guitar work, and that distinctive Vince Neil voice, who I must say... holds his own to this great band.

After Vince was fired/quit (depends who you're asking) Motley Crue in 1992 he put a band together with and toured and released two albums as the Vince Neil band, a solo act. Vince's old band were in fact surprised that he released music before they did and thought he had no interest in music anymore. With his debut album, Neil proved that not only he still cared about music (he also appeared in a movie and competed in Indy Racing for some time) but that he could also deliver an excellent album on his own. Vince Neil's debut album ignored much of the musical scene that was going on at that time. It's almost as if Grunge never happened which is funny as this album was released in 1993 when releasing a Glam album was a suicidal musical direction. Some may wonder if Neil's solo album sounds like Motley. The answer is yes and no. Being that Vince had such a huge stamp on Motley Crue albums with his vocals it doesn't sound too far off from a Crue album but it's also different from the Crue at the same time. In a way Vince's solo debut sounds like what you would expect, a "Girls, Girls, Girls" kind of feel and more of Vince's own style.

"Look In Her Eyes" is a little heavier than your average Motley Crue, it's in the vein of "Dr. Feelgood" but is much faster and it's more of a picking riff whereas Mick Mars has a bluesy element to his playing. It's a strong track to open Exposed with. "Sister of Pain" has a lot of attitude and rocks, great song and heavy too. "Can't have Your Cake" and "Fine Fine Wine" don't hold up as well as some of the other songs on Exposed and while they're certainly not bad, they're nothing to get excited about. "The Edge" is a heavy rocker that features nice guitar by Steve Stevens, this is one of the better songs on the album. "Can't Change Me" is the obligatory ballad and is a good one at that. It kind of reminds me of "Time To Change" from Dr. Feelgood, I also feel this ballad is stronger than the other ballad "Forever" which is also the album's closing track. "Living Is A Luxury" is a highlight of Exposed, the song is a bit on the slower rock side but it's still edgy and it has some excellent lyrics. The conclusion shows amazing guitar work that even sounds a little Jazz inspired, the sirens and added noises I The single "You're Invited (But Your Friend Can't Come)" is pure Vince, it's fun catchy and the lyrics are over the top silly fun. It's energetic and it's an anthem, this may be the best song on Exposed. "Getting Hard" is one of the most fun songs on Exposed, sweet guitar work, Vince is on fire on this one and the chorus is great. Another highlight of Exposed.

Vince solo band sounds great. Vince himself on vocals is great but the backing musicians are what make this album a good one. Steve Stevens is a talented guitar player and proves himself here, solid riffs and great solos. Vikki Foxx is a solid rock drummer and delivers. The album credits Robbie Crane on Bass and Dave Marshall on rhythm guitars but none of those musicians actually played on Exposed.

For fans of Motley Crue and Vince Neil, Exposed is worth the buy. It's a solid and very enjoyable album. Vince Neil solo sounds a lot more like Motley Crue than Motley Crue without Vince that's for sure (Motley `s 1994 self-titled album is a completely different band). Neil's second album, 1995's Carved In Stone is also a good album, I like it to a lesser extend as I feel it had too much of a modern production at the time and wasn't entirely true to Vince Neil. Yet I feel Carved In Stone is a good sophomore solo release as it's very different from what you'd expect out of Vince. Since then we've had one more solo release from Vince, 2010's Tattoos and Tequilas but Exposed remains Vince's best solo effort and the only one that would consider essential to a Crue fan. If you're a Crue fan I strongly suggest you check this out, you won't be disappointed. 4/5 stars, recommended for Crue fans and those who like the Glam-Metal sound.

"Exposed"(1993). Vince Neil's first post Motley Crue album.

By the time it was the early 90's,Motley Crue frontman Vince Neil had entered a new decade as one of the most succesful frontmen in one of the most succesful hair metal bands the hair metal era had seen. The only problem was that Neil's arrogance and ego,along with the arrogance and egos of Nikki Sixx,Tommy Lee,and Mick Mars,had resulted in Neil getting fired from Motley Crue,and after being fired from The Crue,Neil decided to go solo.How did Neil's first solo album,"Exposed",meausure up? Read on for my review of this:

This album,while it wasn't better than Vince's work with Motley Crue,was(and still is)a really good album. While making this album,Neil sort of did with what Paul Stanley had done with his first solo record(which he had actually done when he was with KISS)--he(Neil)used some of Motley Crue's style of songwriting and his own style of songwriting,mixed them together for his own record,and then found good results to his "experiment". The album opens with "Look In Her Eyes",a really good suspenseful type song with some of Vince's best lyrics and singing,and the follow up to that track,"Sister Of Pain",is just totally cool,mean,totally dirty,and just plain awesome--my favorite song out of Vince's solo material. And besides those two tracks,this album offers several other great moments--both "Living Is a Luxury" and "Gettin' Hard" both sound jazz influenced,while LIAL has great jazz influenced music with really good and dark lyrics,and other moments such as "Fine,Fine Wine" and "Your Invited(But Your Friend Can't Come")show that Vince was having fun with this record,and both of them are fun and catchy tunes. And the whole album itself,while not a masterpiece,all sounds really good--Vince Neil,right after Paul Stanley and Steven Tyler,is my third favorite rock and roll frontman of *all* time,and his songwriting and his nasal,sunny,California Sunset Strip vocals all sound really good on this album. And the band supporting Neil on this CD(just so you don't get confused,the guys who played with Vince on this CD and at some of his concerts were part of his post Motley Crue band;he just labeled his post Motley Crue work as his work as a solo artist)--bassist Robbie Crane,rythmn guitarist Dave Marshall,lead guitarist Steve Stevens(who also played with Billy Idol)and drummer/percussionist Vik Foxx also sound in top form on this hard and solid disc. Like I already said,this album isn't up to par with Motley Crue,but it still is quite a good album.

Give this disc a listen. Like I already mentioned,this album isn't better than the contributions Vince Neil had to Motley Crue,but it is still quite a good album--even though this record sold respectably when it first came out in 1993,it is quite a shame that Vince wasn't all that succesful when he wasn't the lead singer of Motley Crue!!! When you put this CD on for the first time,and you go in with an open mind expecting a good rock/hair metal album with good songs that sound a little bit similiar--and a little bit different--than Motley Crue that,at times,has hints of jazz influences to them(the songs)then you will be quite pleased with this CD.

WOW! What a great cd, Vince has really proved that he can do very well w/o the boys of Crue. Every song on this cd is great. My top two favorites are Forever and Set Me Free. This is the Crue (break-up's) best album, like Motley w/ John Corabi sucked, Methods Of Mayhem/Tommy Lee was ok, Nikki Sixx's 58 sucked, and Nikki Sixx's Brides Of Destruction was second best to Vince's solo career, even Vince's second cd Carved In Stone was not as good as this one. I do suggest this album to not only a Crue fan but a rock fan in general.