"Inside Information" by Foreigner, released in December 07, 1987

"Inside Information" is the sixth studio album by the British-American rock band Foreigner, released in 1987. Here are some thoughts on the album: Late 1980s Sound: "Inside Information" reflects the musical trends of the late 1980s. During this period, many rock bands were incorporating a more polished and radio-friendly sound, often with a focus on synthesizers and accessible melodies. Commercial Success: The album was commercially successful, spawning hit singles such as "Say You Will" and "I Don't Want to Live Without You." These tracks received considerable airplay and contributed to the band's continued presence on the charts. Synthesizer Influence: Like many albums from the 1980s, "Inside Information" features a prominent use of synthesizers. This was a departure from Foreigner's earlier sound, which had more of a classic rock and blues-rock influence. Production Quality: The album is characterized by high production values, typical of the era. The sound is polished and showcases the advancements in studio technology available during the late 1980s. Ballads and Power Ballads: Several tracks on the album, such as "Say You Will" and "I Don't Want to Live Without You," fall into the category of power ballads—a popular genre during the 1980s. These songs often featured emotional lyrics and sweeping melodies. Lou Gramm's Vocals: Lou Gramm's vocals are a standout element on the album. His powerful and distinctive voice remains a key component of Foreigner's identity. Songwriting: The album features contributions from both Mick Jones and Lou Gramm in terms of songwriting. Their collaboration has been a key factor in Foreigner's success, and it continues on "Inside Information." Mix of Styles: While the album has a contemporary sound for the 1980s, it still retains elements of Foreigner's classic rock roots. The band manages to balance evolving their sound with maintaining some continuity from their earlier work. Critical Reception: Critical reception to "Inside Information" was mixed. Some appreciated the album's commercial appeal and the band's ability to adapt to changing musical trends. Others, however, felt it lacked the raw energy of their earlier releases. Legacy: While not as iconic as some of Foreigner's earlier albums, "Inside Information" remains a part of the band's discography and contributes to their overall legacy. It reflects a period of transition in the rock music landscape. In summary, "Inside Information" is an album that captures Foreigner in the context of the late 1980s rock scene. It incorporates the popular elements of the time, including synthesizers and power ballads, contributing to the band's continued success in that era.