Review | D.A.D. – Greatest Hits 1984-2024

AFM Records

If you’re a fan of gritty, unapologetic hard hitting’ rock ‘n’ roll, then D.A.D. needs no introduction. Formerly known as Disneyland After Dark, the band’s unmistakable blend of hard rock, punk attitude and catchy melodies, has cemented their place in rock history. With `Greatest Hits 1984-2024’ the Danish band celebrates their 40^th anniversary and fans, old and new, are treated to a sonic journey through the band’s illustrious career.

THE LEGACY

Spanning over four decades of musical prowess, this compilation album is a testament to the enduring legacy of D.A.D. From their early days in the 80s pioneering with `Call of the Wild’ (1986) sprouting featured tracks like ,,Marlboro Man”, ,,Ridin’ with Sue” and the ‘name giving’ ,,It’s After Dark”, to their international acclaim following with the ground-breaking third album `No Fuel left for the Pilgrims’, each track is a testament of the band’s evolution and raw energy.

The album kicks off with the anthemic rouser ,,Sleeping My Day Away,” the band’s timeless classic that encapsulates the rebellious spirit of D.A.D. From there, we’re taken on a rollercoaster ride through their discography, with hits like ,,Bad Craziness” and ,,Laugh ‘n’ ½” from the 90s hammer `Riskin’ it All’ or the cracker from 1995’s word punned `Helpyourselfish’ album; the spawning `Reconstrucdead’, D.A.D displays tremendous compositional growth and thrive. 

NOT ONLY HITS

Greatest is a showcase of the band’s prowess and skills with memorable tracks delivered in large chops like ,,Nineteenhundredandyesterday”, ,,Evil Twin”, the raw resonating ,,Monster Philosophy” and the acclaimed strutting country injected rocker ,,A Prayer for the Loud”, all showcasing the band’s versatility and knack for crafting infectious hooks. Glimpsing of sterling grandeur, ,,Grow or Pay” throws the benchmark gritty western spaghetti accolades onto their swirl of melodies and hooks, impacting severely like on its maiden spin. 

But it’s not just the hits that shine on this compilation. Deep cuts like ,,Rim of Hell”, the laden ,,Burning Star” and ,,Grow or Pay” offer a glimpse into D.A.D.’s lesser-known gems, proving that their musical prowess extends far beyond the mainstream. 

D.A.D. – THE CONCLUSION

Perhaps the biggest stronghold of this career overview `Greatest Hits 1984 – 2024’ is the band’s tedious live atmosphere captured in the songs and especially in the live version of ,,I Won’t Cut My Hair”, the previously mentioned ,,It’s After Dark” and ,,Jihad”. Their electrifying stage presence and undeniable chemistry pushes the atmosphere and crowd participation. From the blistering guitar solos of Jacob Binzer and Stig Pederson’s raw and gritty loud bass, to Jesper Binzer‘s gravelly vocals and towering power, each song is a testament to D.A.D.’s prowess as a live act.

As the album draws to a close with the epic ,,Home Alone” and the raunchy rock ‘n roll rouser ,,Isn’t that Wild” it’s impossible not to feel a sense of nostalgia for the heyday of rock ‘n’ roll. D.A.D. may have weathered the storms of fame and fortune, but their music remains as vibrant and relevant as ever.

In conclusion, `Greatest Hits 1984 – 2024’ is a must-have for any rock aficionado. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, this compilation offers a comprehensive overview of D.A.D.’s illustrious career, proving once and for all why they’re one of rock’s greatest treasures.

Release date: 10 May 2024