Dokken – ‘The Lost Songs: 1978-1981’ [Album Review]

When receiving this lost gem of metal goodness, my first thought was this is going to be horrible. I’ve loved Dokken since I was fifteen, as many have, but I’m also aware of the turmoil that exists within the band. With all past judgment and vanity mirrors tossed into the wind, there’s plenty of fulfillment found in The Lost Songs: 1978-1981.

When it comes to pop-meets-hard-rock déjà vu, The Lost Songs has an almost Journey or Scorpions feel to it, with “Day After Day” being a prime example. Don Dokken proves he and fellow muscians were were rocking before the ink on the musical contract was dry. Don’s vocals are upfront, paving the way for a lost legacy, and this great collection of obscure lore kindles back to the glory days of pre-Sunset Strip hairspray. “Rainbows” has Lynch-y string bending all over the place in classic “Mr. Scary” tradition. “No Answer” and “Hit and Run” have an early Def Leppard tone, but sound like they could’ve come off Under Lock and Key, while Lynch again rips your head off with the lead in “Liar.”

There’s no feeling in the world like listening to local radio on a Saturday night and finding out about new metal bands; a golden era most generations will never appreciate. The Lost Songs: 1978-1981 is full of long-forgotten metal magic that has an emotional connection to spending your allowance at your local record store in the past, or now, in the present, asking your wife if you can use the credit card.

The Lost Songs: 1978 to 1981 Track Listing:

1. Step Into the Light
2. We’re Going Wrong
3. Day After Day
4. Rainbows
5. Felony
6. No Answer
7. Back in the Streets
8. Hit and Run
9. Broken Heart
10. Liar
11. Prisoner

Run Time: 44:28
Release Date: August 28, 2020
Record Label: Silver Lining Music