ALBUM REVIEW ~ DOKKEN ~ 'THE LOST SONGS: 1978-1981'

I'm Music Magazine, Don Dokken, Dokken, George Lynch, Silver Lining Records, The Lost Songs 1978-1981, Juan Croucier, No Answer,

Dokken frontman and founding member Don Dokken has teamed up with Silver Lining Records to release The Lost Songs: 1978-1981. Pulled from Don’s personal vault, this 11 song collection takes us back to a time when a young and hungry Dokken were paying their dues on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood, CA.

As evidenced in the opening track, “Step into the Light”, the signature Dokken sound was already starting to take shape. You’ve got the big riffs, driving rhythms, and an undeniable hook.

“Were Going Wrong” is another great heavy rocker that could have been a precursor to one of Dokken’s bigger hits in “Just Got Lucky.”

“Felony” is a killer track that is a little on the heavier side. I love the hearing the raw intensity of these unreleased songs. It is easily one of the best songs in this collection.

In addition to great rock songs, Dokken was always known to pen some very heartfelt and emotional ballads as well. The track “Day By Day” is a beautifully written piece of music that gives you an insight to where the band was headed and how they evolved into writing some of their biggest hits like “Walk Away” and “Alone Again.”

“Rainbows” is also an excellent track with a cool and moody vibe that sounds more like a modern rock track that would be on today’s radio.

Another personal favorite is “Back in the Streets” which is just pure aural adrenaline. Stellar high energy track with relentless riffing and so much conviction in Don’s vocals.

Thank you to Don Dokken for opening up is personal vault and letting the rock world hear these absolute gems. This is a must have for all fans of Dokken, as these tracks were handpicked for the fans and really give us a glimpse into what one of the most well known bands in hard rock today.

Rating: 8/10 Stars.

I’m Music Magazine Writer Jason “Supes” Mesa