Scatterbrain - Here Comes Trouble (LP) - VG+/VG+

"Here Comes Trouble" is the debut studio album by the American thrash metal band Scatterbrain, released in 1990. The album is a unique blend of thrash metal, punk, and humor, which sets it apart from many of its contemporaries in the metal scene of the late 80s and early 90s. Scatterbrain, formed from the remnants of the band Ludichrist, brought a fresh and irreverent approach to the genre, which is evident throughout this album.

One of the standout features of "Here Comes Trouble" is its eclectic mix of musical styles and the band's willingness to experiment. The album opens with "Here Comes Trouble," a track that sets the tone with its fast-paced riffs and humorous lyrics. The band's ability to blend humor with heavy music is one of their defining characteristics, and it shines through in tracks like "Down with the Ship (Slight Return)," which features a medley of classic rock riffs and a narrative about a ship's crew facing various calamities.

Another notable track is "Don't Call Me Dude," which became a minor hit and is perhaps the band's most well-known song. The track's catchy chorus and humorous take on the frustrations of being called "dude" struck a chord with many listeners. The accompanying music video received significant airplay on MTV, further boosting the band's visibility.

"Here Comes Trouble" also includes a cover of Cheech and Chong's "Earache My Eye," which showcases the band's ability to reinterpret and inject their own style into existing material. This cover, along with the original tracks, highlights Scatterbrain's musicianship and their knack for blending humor with technical proficiency.

The album's production, handled by producer Norman Dunn, captures the raw energy of Scatterbrain's sound. The mix is clear, allowing each instrument to shine, and the overall production quality is solid, especially for a debut album.

In terms of critical reception, "Here Comes Trouble" received generally positive reviews. Critics praised the band's originality and their ability to infuse humor into the thrash metal genre. The album's diverse musical influences and the band's technical skills were also frequently highlighted. However, some critics felt that the humor might not appeal to all listeners and that the album's eclectic nature could be polarizing.

While "Here Comes Trouble" did not achieve massive commercial success, it has garnered a cult following over the years. The album's unique blend of humor and heavy music has made it a memorable entry in the thrash metal genre. Scatterbrain's willingness to push boundaries and experiment with different styles has earned them a place in the annals of metal history.

In terms of awards, there are no notable accolades associated with "Here Comes Trouble." However, the album's cultural significance lies in its ability to stand out in a crowded metal scene by offering something different. Scatterbrain's approach paved the way for other bands to incorporate humor and diverse influences into their music.

In conclusion, "Here Comes Trouble" is a distinctive and entertaining album that showcases Scatterbrain's unique approach to thrash metal. With standout tracks like "Don't Call Me Dude" and "Down with the Ship (Slight Return)," the album offers a mix of humor, technical proficiency, and eclectic influences that set it apart from its contemporaries. While it may not have achieved widespread commercial success, its impact and originality have earned it a lasting place in the hearts of metal fans.