DANGEROUS TOYS Set to Release Long-Awaited Album “Demolition”
Return to the Spotlight
Texas rockers DANGEROUS TOYS, who enjoyed a brief but impactful surge of popularity during the late 1980s glam metal scene, are gearing up to release their new album, “Demolition”. Scheduled to drop on December 12, this highly anticipated collection will be available on CD, vinyl, and a limited-edition cassette through Cleopatra Records.
A Legacy of Live Performance
Despite not having released a new studio album in over three decades, DANGEROUS TOYS remains a formidable live act. Known for their electrifying performances, the band limits its shows to just a handful each year. They have already played several select gigs in 2025, with upcoming performances slated for the Rochester Opera House in New Hampshire on November 14, and the Met Cafe in Pawtucket, Rhode Island the following night. Additionally, they are set to appear on the Monsters Of Rock cruise next spring.
Unveiling “Demolition”
Fans can eagerly anticipate “Demolition”, which features ten previously unreleased tracks recorded during the band’s hiatus between their second album, 1991’s “Hellacious Acres,” and their third, 1994’s “Pissed.” During this period, DANGEROUS TOYS honed their distinctive blend of Southern rock and hard-hitting metal.
Old Yet New
According to the band’s liner notes, these tracks were carefully selected, with the acknowledgment that they “obviously didn’t make the cut when choosing songs for official release.” For listeners, these tracks will feel fresh and novel, showcasing the band’s creative process during a formative time.
Quality Over Quantity
While it’s tempting to label these songs as “rejects,” the band recorded over 70 new songs during this era. Most of these were crafted quickly, often written on scrap paper or captured on cassette tapes in the jam room. As they prepared to finalize “Pissed,” the sheer volume of material made it impossible to include everything. “Quality had nothing to do with it,” the band reflects; there simply were too many songs to release—until now.
New Single Release
The countdown to “Demolition” has officially begun, with the first single, “Rock Shock Cowboy,” already available. Guitarist Scott Dalhover describes it as a “snapshot of what was going on in the D.T. songwriting process at that point in time,” providing a glimpse into the band’s creative journey.
Track Listing for “Demolition”
- 01. Rock Shock Cowboy
- 02. Come Out Swinging
- 03. Rattle My Cage
- 04. Rhapsody in Barbed Wire
- 05. One On One Live
- 06. Burning Bridges
- 07. Your Sister
- 08. Backstreet Girl
- 09. Shot To Hell
- 10. SNAFU
The Impact of Grunge
In a recent interview with Anthony Bryant of The Hair Metal Guru, DANGEROUS TOYS frontman Jason McMaster reflected on the impact of grunge music in the early 1990s. He noted how the rise of this genre effectively sidelined many hard rock bands, with album and tour sales plummeting. “I think that hair metal killed hair metal,” McMaster stated, emphasizing that an oversaturation of mediocre bands contributed to the decline of the genre.
Musical Evolution
McMaster articulated his respect for bands that maintained a more authentic rock and roll vibe during this transitional period. He drew comparisons between DANGEROUS TOYS and bands like JUNKYARD and RHINO BUCKET, which adopted a raw, punk-inspired rock style, contrasting sharply with the glam metal image that had become prevalent.
Reflections on Past Success
Founded in 1987, DANGEROUS TOYS released four full-length albums and one live album before unofficially disbanding in the early 2000s. Their self-titled debut album achieved gold status by 1994, yet their follow-up, “Hellacious Acres,” failed to capture the same level of success. McMaster attributes this to the grunge movement, which overshadowed many hard rock acts and shifted the musical landscape dramatically.
The Future of DANGEROUS TOYS
Despite the challenges faced in the past, DANGEROUS TOYS continues to perform and engage with their fan base. The release of “Demolition” signals a new chapter for the band, reigniting interest in their music and legacy. As they prepare to share these long-hidden tracks, fans are reminded of the band’s enduring impact on the rock scene.
Conclusion
DANGEROUS TOYS is poised for a comeback with their upcoming album, “Demolition.” This release not only showcases previously unreleased material but also serves as a testament to the band’s enduring spirit and influence within the rock genre. As they navigate the current musical landscape, both old and new fans can look forward to the exhilarating sounds that DANGEROUS TOYS has to offer.
FAQs
When is “Demolition” being released?
“Demolition” will be released on December 12.
What formats will “Demolition” be available in?
The album will be available on CD, vinyl, and limited-edition cassette.
Are there any upcoming shows for DANGEROUS TOYS?
Yes, upcoming shows include performances at the Rochester Opera House on November 14 and the Met Cafe on November 15.
How many tracks are on the “Demolition” album?
The album features ten tracks, all previously unreleased.
What is the first single from “Demolition”?
The first single is titled “Rock Shock Cowboy.”
