I think we can all probably agree that Steel Panther is a polarizing band. You either love these guys or just don’t get the joke. Rarely do you find indifference.
Wikipedia describes them as “an American comedic glam metal band from Los Angeles, California. They are known for their profane and humorous lyrics as well as their exaggerated onstage pastiche of the stereotypical glam metal lifestyle.”
Safe to say that many rock fans who haven’t heard their music, watched their videos or seen them live might check out after reading THAT bio. However, the fact that Steel Panther has endured since 2009 and are now on the verge of releasing their sixth studio record, means that they are more than just a parody.
They cut their teeth on the Sunset Strip as a cover band and Van Halen tribute act. Over time, their reputation for over-the-top showmanship and their outrageous look put them on the radar. What followed was appearances on popular TV shows, commercials and now, a global fan base.
Vocalist, Michael Starr (Ralph Saenz), drummer, Stix Zadinia (Darren Leader), guitarist Satchel (Russ Parrish) and the newest member of the crew, bassist, Spyder (Joe Lester) can flat out write, sing and play as evidenced on their new album, On the Prowl, which drops on February 24.
If you know Steel Panther, the song titles speak for themselves…” Never Too Late (To Get Some Pu**y Tonight),” “Sleeping on the Rollaway,” “Magical Vagina” and “One Pump Chump.” Enough said.
The song “1987” though is particularly noteworthy. Sure, they take us on a nostalgic trip to the glory days when Guns N’ Roses, Whitesnake and Dokken ruled. But it also leaves Michael Starr pondering his sexuality when he sings, Poison lookin’ so damn good, I wondered if I was gay!
This catchy track also reminisces about a simpler time while taking some brilliant shots at today’s more frivolous time-suckers, like Instagram and Snap-Chat. They also make us thankful that cancel culture wasn’t even a consideration in 1987!
A comment on Steel Panther’s YouTube page reads, “This song sums the period up brilliantly. It’s that good and that poignant that it gives me the shivers. Reminds me of some great times.” Agree or disagree, that’s a pretty powerful reaction.
Most importantly, don’t dismiss the musicianship on this one. Satchel’s guitar work – both electric and acoustic is stellar and underrated. Stix and Spyder hold down a legit rhythm section. And Starr’s vocals on the entire album are on par with the best rock singers of the day.
The band will tell you that if Corey Taylor from Slipknot and Stone Sour can appreciate what Steel Panther does, even the most hardcore metal fan should at least give them a shot. They may not be your cup of tea, but before you write them off, listen to On the Prowl. I’m glad I did!
I’m Music Magazine Writer Steve Pawlowski
Connect with Steel Panther Online:
IG/FB @steelpanther
TW @Steel_Panther
