Overview

Before it was called Hair Metal, the legendary band DOKKEN, named after its founder, Don Dokken, in the late 70s, already carved a name for themselves in California. The 80s decade for the Los Angeles was what every band out there dreams about, the grandeur, the fame and plenty of success to go around. DOKKEN had an it all in the 1980s, and they have proof to that fact.

In the period of time between 1983 and 1987, DOKKEN released jewels of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal, albums that are no less than solid gold (or Platinum if you may), along with hailing amazing hits that stand for a proud legacy. Celebrating their days signed to the known Elektra Records, the BMG label is releasing a special boxset, both on CD and Vinyl versions, of the band's four ultra-famous historical albums, creating a one stop shop to one of the most important bands coming from America in the heydays of Hair Metal.

The Pros

I really liked the color of the boxset, displaying a wonderful violet, breaking DOKKEN's classic logo with the inscription: "The Elektra Albums 1983-1987". Like any BMG boxset, high quality material. Flipping it on its back, there are the artworks of the four albums in small size, along with the tracklists of each of the albums. Simply informative and to the point.

Inside the boxset, there are four digipacks, each with a CD (I am referring mainly to the CD version), and a booklet. The original credits of each of the albums are in the inlay. If you are a poster collector, there are still those that do actually, there is a treat for you. The booklet of each album isn't really a booklet but a folded poster, with most albums showcasing the band's lineup in a cool photo of each of the eras of the band, other than "Back For The Attack" that shows just art.

The remastered sound quality of the albums is superb. I had the pleasure of listening to the records both with headphones and speakers, and I had a great experience. It was an amazing trip back in time for me as I have been a follower of the band, in particular these four albums, for many years. Certainly, if you care about the sound, you will find pleasure enticing your senses with these babies. Sadly, I couldn't find the proper credits of who did what on either of the booklets, but no worries, the end result was worth it.

The Cons

I found a measure of inconsistencies on the booklet / say posters. There are two albums with lyrics at the back of the posters, and there are two that are without. I couldn't really understand the reason why, but I can't say that it helped much, in particular since it is a special kind of reissue.

I also had another expectation in mind, which its foundation was due to my early experience with the BMG reissues, is a little history on each of the records. These four albums are considerable milestones, not just for DOKKEN, but for the worlds of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. I am sure that there were experiences that could have seen the light of day.

Summary

Treading in the past, looking for the good memories, you will certainly find it in the "The Elektra Albums 1983-1987" boxset. These four major albums helped shaped the history of heavy music, influenced many while making a strong impact in the guitar driven world. BMG packed it up greatly in this boxset and I find it to be a good addition to your collection. Be sure to have that.