In the twilight of the 1980s, a year that marked the end of an era and the dawn of another, a band emerged that would encapsulate the raw energy and spirit of rock's golden years. This band was Badlands, a powerhouse ensemble formed by none other than Jake E. Lee, known for his explosive guitar solos with Ozzy Osbourne. As Lee parted ways with the Prince of Darkness, he gathered a group of seasoned musicians: Ray Gillen, whose commanding vocals could rival the legends; Eric Singer, a drummer with a pedigree from Black Sabbath (later KISS); and Greg Chaisson, whose bass lines were as deep as they were intricate. Highlights of This Episode: Formation of Badlands: After parting ways with Ozzy Osbourne, Jake E. Lee forms Badlands, recruiting powerhouse vocalist Ray Gillen, dynamic drummer Eric Singer, and bassist Greg Chaisson to create a lineup that promised and delivered a potent blend of talent and passion. Album Exploration: We take a track-by-track look at the debut album, starting with the electrifying "High Wire," diving into the emotional depths of "Dreams in the Dark," and exploring the anthemic "Winter's Call." Each song represents the band's ability to weave powerful lyrics with robust instrumental performances. Touring Tales: Hear about Badlands' memorable tours with bands like Tesla and Great White, capturing the transition era from glam metal to the rawer sounds that would define the 90s. Legacy and Loss: Despite their short-lived journey, the influence of Badlands continues. We discuss the bittersweet legacy of the band, the challenges they faced, and how their music lives on in the hearts of fans. Rare Recordings: The rarity of Badlands' recordings adds a layer of mystique to their legacy. We explore why their music remains a collector's treasure trove and a delightful discovery for new fans. Songs in the Episode: Intro - Dreams in the Dark 34:53 - Street Cry Freedom 39:41 - Dreams in the Dark 41:06 - Jade's Song 52:55 - High Wire 55:27 - Devil's Stomp 58:00 - Seasons 1:03:47 - Dancing on the Edge 1:05:43 - Winter's Call 1:14:19 - Winter's Call Outro - High Wire Suggest an album > Join the mission with the DMO Union at Patreon > This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit digmeout.substack.com/subscribe