Jack Starr
Out Of The Darkness (reissue)

February 2014
Released: 2013, Limb Records
Rating: 4.0/5
Reviewer: JP

Jack Starr is experiencing a bit of a resurgence over the past few years. As 2014 this is his 30th anniversary of going solo it is a good as time as any to take a look at the reissue of his debut solo album OUT OF THE DARKNESS.



Originally issued in 1984 on a small label, Limb Records has reissued this semi-rare gem with a multitude of bonus tracks, six to be precise. The whole thing has been re-mastered by R.D. Liapakis and it sounds great. It has new packaging, liner notes, photos and new cover art, because the original was admittedly, not very Metal looking.



As this is a reissue I’m not going to spend a huge amount of time discussing this CD but I will touch on the bonus tracks. Suffice to say it was a well regarded album for the time with quite a few big-name hired guns, such as members of Rainbow, The Rods and of course they raw talent of Rhett Forester (ex-Riot) on vocals. It is a fiery record, no doubt. As for the extra cuts, they were recorded from various eras of Jack’s career there is a nice mix of tunes to enjoy. From the melodic and quite tender instrumental ‘ Interlude In The Afternoon’ (featuring some emotive soloing accompanied by piano) to the more boogie oriented cut ‘Sundance Strut’ to the odd 50’s do-wop styling’s of ‘The Last Dance’, these tracks truly showcase his diverse style and talent. He also touches on the blues with the last song ‘Blue Tears Falling’. The extra songs are a nice counterpoint to the straight-up 80’s Metal of the regular album.



Normally I might not rate a reissue so highly, but it is a pretty important album and the package is done properly, especially with the generous inclusion of six bonus tracks. It is well worth it for fans of the original and for people who want to own a little slice of early USPM history.