Van Halen
5150 (Expanded Edition)

"5150" is arguably one of VAN HALEN's seminal albums. In my opinion, it's here that the band's potential during the Sammy Hagar era is most fully realized. "5150" features "Why Can't This Be Love," undoubtedly the band's signature song. If I'm not mistaken, during the Soviet era, the intro to this song was the theme song to a television show. But if only this song were the album's only merit. The album amazes with a riot of original, diverse numbers: "Good Enough" is an energetic composition, ideal for an intro; "Get Up" is a technically accomplished (with very interesting guitar work) thriller; "Dreams" is a stunningly melodic track; and so on could be written about any song. There are no weak numbers. Another characteristic of VAN HALEN that deserves mention is their major-key playing. Most heavy metal bands play in minor keys, and only a few dare to break this tradition. Naturally, this style sets the band apart from the crowd of standard bands. And of course, it's simply impossible not to mention the talent of the band's main driving force, Eddie Van Halen. A magnificent melodist, a stunning technician, an innovator, and simply a killer showman. A monster. Sammy Hagar. Like many VAN HALEN fans, I believe that Hagar was the vocalist most suited to the band's style. In addition to his recognizable and artistic voice, he also played rhythm guitar on certain tracks. A jack of all trades. A unique singing style coupled with an original vocal timbre. Michael Anthony and Alex Van Halen. A solid rhythm section. No frills, but solid and reliable. A powerful framework for Eddie's guitar and Sammy's voice. Stylistically, it's impossible to compare the band to anyone else. VAN HALEN sounds unique, unlike anyone else. They have an exclusive musical presentation. Ten stars. An album that stands the test of time. A classic.