Ridgway, Stan
The Big Heat
Originally released in 1986, The Big Heat is former Wall Of Voodoo leader Stan Ridgway's first solo album. Appropriately named after the 1953 film noir of the same name, The Big Heat is full of tragic, noir themed tales of love and death. Though heavily reliant on synths and drum machines, the album retains a organic and cinematic feel to it. Featuring help from members of Gang of Four, The Screamers, Oingo Boingo, as well as session men who played with the likes of Zappa and Beefheart, The Big Heat is a classic piece of 80s alternative from one of the era's most distinctive voices. Reissued on CD with 4 bonus tracks and featuring Greil Marcus' notes.