Kinki Stunt – Kinki Stunt (1994): A Glam-Rock Time Capsule That’s Still Worth Cranking Up
Let’s cut to the chase: Kinki Stunt by Kinki Stunt isn’t just an album; it’s like a forgotten mixtape from your older cousin who thought spandex and leather were acceptable office attire. Released in 1994 under Retrospect Records and Blonde Music Records, this thing screams glam rock with a hard edge, as if Poison and Mötley Crüe had a secret love child that grew up listening to AC/DC on repeat.
The band's lineup reads like a DIY rock fantasy league: Rodd Mason on lead vocals (and harmonica—yes, harp!), Jerry Gaines shredding guitar solos like there’s no tomorrow, Robb Nichols holding down bass duties while sneaking in some backing vocals, and Robert Tarango smashing drums and percussion like he’s got something to prove. Oh, and let’s not forget Allan Blazek pulling strings behind the scenes as producer. This crew wasn’t messing around—they came to party, and they brought all their bad decisions with them.
Now, onto the tracks. With titles like “Shitfaced,” “Devil’s Grin,” and “Johnny Law,” you know these guys weren’t aiming for subtlety. But two songs really stuck with me after spinning this relic of ‘90s excess.
First up is “I Would Fly.” Spoiler alert: It’s basically a power ballad disguised as a middle finger to anyone who ever doubted you. The opening riff hits like a punch in the gut, and Rodd Mason’s vocals are dripping with so much swagger it’s almost ridiculous. Almost. There’s a moment halfway through where the tempo shifts, and suddenly you’re floating on a cloud of electric guitar bliss. You can practically hear the hairspray fumes wafting out of your speakers. If this song doesn’t make you want to grab a lighter (or cell phone flashlight) and sway dramatically, then buddy, you might be dead inside.
Then there’s “Bad Situation”, which feels like the soundtrack to every ill-advised decision you’ve ever made at 2 a.m. Lyrically, it’s about being knee-deep in chaos but still owning it like a boss. The rhythm section—Robb Nichols’ basslines paired with Robert Tarango’s relentless drumming—is tight enough to give you whiplash. And when Jerry Gaines lets loose with one of his signature solos? Forget about it. Your neighbors will either call the cops or start headbanging along. Either way, mission accomplished.
But here’s the kicker: despite its over-the-top vibe, Kinki Stunt has a weird charm that keeps you coming back. Sure, it’s cheesy in places, and yeah, some of the lyrics sound like they were scribbled on a bar napkin five minutes before recording. But isn’t that what makes it fun? It’s unapologetically itself, flaws and all.
In hindsight, maybe Kinki Stunt didn’t change the world or redefine rock music forever. But honestly? Who cares? Sometimes, all you need is an album that reminds you life’s too short to take seriously. So crank it up, pour yourself a drink, and embrace the glorious mess that is Kinki Stunt. Just don’t blame me if your cat gives you side-eye during “Shitfaced.”
Final thought: If this album were a person, it’d probably be banned from most bars—but secretly invited to every house party. Cheers to that.
