I Love Rock N' Roll [Remaster] (CD - 1981)

Includes liner notes by Danny Solazzi.

Joan Jett & the Blackhearts: Joan Jett, Ricky Byrd (vocals, guitar); Gary Ryan (vocals, bass guitar); Lee Crystal (drums).

I Love Rock N' Roll, Joan Jett's first record with the Blackhearts, was a tougher, louder album than Bad Reputation, primarily because her new backing band gave her a more coherent sound. That dynamic, hard rock crunch is what made the title track into an international hit, but it also gives the album dimension -- not only can Jett & the Blackhearts tear up heavy glam rockers, but they also pull off the mock psychedelia of Tommy James & the Shondells' "Crimson and Clover" with aplomb. On the whole, I Love Rock N' Roll doesn't have as many strong songs as its predecessor, but the band's muscular, gritty sound makes the album just as good as Bad Reputation. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine

Every year there are several hit songs that will forever evoke that specific year for those who hear them. For instance, such tracks as Men At Work's "Who Can it Be Now?," Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger," and especially Joan Jett's "I Love Rock N' Roll," recall 1982 for many. Though the majority of early-'80s rock hits included a glossy production and synthesizers (AC/DC being a notable exception), Jett went the completely opposite route with her sophomore solo album, bashing out anthemic and raw rock with a clear punk edge.

The shout-along title track became a monster hit in the US, camping out at the Number One spot on the singles chart for several weeks. Along with her hit cover of Tommy James & The Shondells' "Crimson and Clover," Jett was responsible for two of the most consistently played clips of MTV's early history. Although not as stellar as her rock 'em sock 'em debut, 1981's BAD REPUTATION, I LOVE ROCK & ROLL remains one of Joan Jett's best and most popular albums. minimize