"One By One" by Darling Cruel

Probably one of the most intriguing albums to come out the 80s is "Passion Crimes" by LA-based band Darling Cruel. The single "Everything's Over" garnered some airplay on MTV in 1989, turning some onto the band and pushing their album to #160. Remarkably, the infectious single didn't hit the top 100, nor did any other track from this underrated record.

Singer Gregory Darling, who cut his teeth playing piano and singing backing vocals for Faster Pussycat, has an astonishing range and perhaps goes a little overboard with the vocal gymnastics on some of the tracks. The overall sound combines hard rock with a touch of goth, with lyrics and orchestral instrumentation one might hear in the middle ages. Like I said, "Passion Crimes" has a unique sound, which is only part of the record's appeal.

What always pulls me back in to appreciate this record is the abundance of hooks in the melodies. "One By One" is a favorite, but be sure to also check out the groovy "Weight On My Shoulders" and epic ballad, "Love Child". 

If you were a fan, Gregory Darling has released a number of mellower solo records you might want to audition.