THE QUIREBOYS is a Rock band formed in 1984 in England. Thirty years after its' initial release, their debut album, "A Bit of What You Fancy," is getting a proper re-release via Off Yer Rocka Records. The beauty of this re-issue is that you can choose. Fans of bonus tracks and clear sound could get the CD as of August 6, while vinyl lovers and collectors got their wish on August 20, 2021. This is especially interesting since vinyl beat CD in sales for the first time in about 30 years in 2020.

The record begins with the iconic song "7 O'clock." That piano intro played for my first listen through of this and my brain immediately did a little happy dance. I was 21 years old and still heavily into the radio (FM, not this Sirius XM stuff). This played all the time in Dallas, TX and I turned it up often. The piano, the harmonica, the gritty vocals, the smooth guitar riff... all just like I remember. Talk about some fond memories!

"Whippin' Boy" is here and just as cool as I remember it. The darker tones and lyrics give this a different feel than a lot of the upbeat rock tunes THE QUIREBOYS usually issue. They were a bit of a party band but could take on serious things as well. That solid drum beat, the consistent bass, they both set a foundation that is virtually unshakeable. Not fancy or frilly, the rhythm is perfect for the track. This is the song that showed the writing skills these guys have.

Getting back to the fun, "Sex Party" is that upbeat tune that just makes you want to get up, grab a beer, dance and laugh with friends, though you're probably watching that beautiful person across the room who has really captivated your attention. Take another drink of that liquid courage and make your approach. They might like you, too.

"Sweet Mary Anne" is a ballad that reminds me a bit of a ROD STEWART song like "Maggie May." Okay, THE QUIREBOYS do kick it into gear a little harder than that other guy, but the song still feels and sounds like a major tribute to someone near and dear to the heart. On the other end of this spectrum, we have "Don't Love You Anymore." Gentle music, but the lyrics aren't happy this time. The pain is palpable in this tune.

The next few songs get a little rougher in the riffage, proving the band can really rock. "Long Time Comin'" is a cool tune with some awesome piano work. Many of the songs have that, but it really hits me more on this song. Especially the JERRY LEE LEWIS runs down the entire keyboard. Lots of fun in this track.

The record wraps with "Take Me Home." Starts like a ballad again, the piano and guitar setting a nice, slow pace while the vocals set a bit of a melancholy tone. The main body of the song kicks in and the pace livens up a bit. Just another example of how these guys can set and change moods in a song with the greatest of ease.

It has been a lot of fun listening to this record all over again for the first time in a long time. It's hard to believe this album is 30 years old. It still feels fresh and relevant. The lyrics are just as poignant now as they were then. The music, the voice, everything is just like it was. The nostalgia factor is through the roof. Damn it's good to get a taste of good, old-fashioned rock and roll again.