The legacy of TROUBLE is forever forged upon Heavy Metal, specifically Doom Metal. Formed in '79, the band bucked a scene that was soon dominated by debauched hair spray on one end and the pent-up rage of Thrash on the other; yet, despite these significant hurdles, their discography serves as a testament to their fortuitous mission. "Run to the Light" is the band's third release, originally released back in '87 and now reissued with bonus demo tracks and a cover via Metal Blade. It is an excellent specimen defining the strongest characteristics of the band while also serving as an antithetical stance against the '80s zeitgeist.

"The Misery Shows' kicks things off with a majestic beginning that is a menagerie of gorgeous acoustic guitar intertwined with organ. The song thus rolls in with a unique intoxicating swagger and soon, a head-smashing heaviness. Pervading throughout is a heightened sense of positivity akin to BLACK SABBATH's "After Forever". This is evidenced by the line "Tell the people, everyone you meet, the answer is love".

The streak continues through the second song, "Thinking of the Past," and the baroque beginning and subsequent infectious groove of the third track, "On Borrowed Time". The rich ebb and flow that characterizes this song can best be described as a call and response between the chorus and the resulting heaviness. The quiet is softer and the loud and is thus more ferocious.

The production contained within is staggeringly visceral. There would be no CROWBAR (among others) without this album! The guitar tone is that effective as it speeds down an ever-widening autobahn of creativity and sound. As a whole, the band acts as one unit, an utterly impactful sound is created, one that manages to creep into the deepest recesses of one's mind.

It would be impossible not to mention "Tuesday's Child," the seventh track. Its examination of Christian themes, specifically Pauline epithets is quite intriguing. Though never an official "Christian" band, the lyrics reflect an open-minded sense of discovery. All citizens of Western Civilization have interacted with such themes. The Psychedelic swirl of the eighth track, "The Beginning," points to pre-SABBATH influences, namely THE DOORS. Yet again, the band effectively blends keyboard into its swaying oeuvre.

Finally, the triple entente of formidable influences is made complete with the indomitable homage to THE BEATLES. This, of course, extends beyond the band's cover of "Come Together". Obviously, TROUBLE would go on to craft a version of perennial favorite, "Tomorrow Never Knows," on '95's "PLASTIC GREEN HEAD". This reissue is yet another chance to further offer up the abiding influence of the dearly-departed Eric Wagner upon the world of Heavy Metal. While "Run to the Light" is not the best TROUBLE alum, it is a striking testament to the band's seminal and timeless influence.