From the outset, the Scorps pull in the listener with one of the vew few rousing rockers entitled "Wild Child." From that great opener, to the intro of the next track "But The Best For You", you'd think that it is following the typical formula - but it is not the case. Once "But The Best For You" breaks into the first verse, you are treated a much more mellow sound - it's quite refreshing. Pure Instincts as a whole is such a departure from their larger body of work, it's startling, but also stunning, as it is done so very well.

     Pure Instincts not only showcases a legitimate songwriting talent, but from an actual band chemistry standpoint, the musicians themselves are all in top form. Klaus Meine delievers some breathtaking vocals throughout the piece, and the versatility exuded by the guitarists, bassist, and drummer, is simply amazing.

     One of my all time favorite Scorpions songs is on this record, entitled "Soul Behind The Face." For some bizarre reason, Pure Instincts is currently absent from iTunes, as I would recommend picking up that song right away. Though, that isn't to say this album isn't worth getting! Quite the contrary! It's a terrific and unique piece of Scorpions lore that stands out in their larger body of work. I always felt the Scorpions were among the very elite in terms of arena rock bands, as they have always showcased a certain talent much better than the likes of the mediocrity in that genre (bands like Ratt, Tesla, Bon Jovi, etc.).

     I know I've been gushing over this album, but it also has a few misfires along the way. These few tracks, like the banal "Stone In My Shoe" for example, do not detract from the great strides made here. I also must make note of the closing track - "Are You The One?" It is a song of such simplicity - in its message and in its delievary. Klaus Meine sings his heart out in front of a orchestral ensemble, with some light guitar touches in the background - it's gorgeous.

     Overall, Pure Instincts is a wonderfully mellow, sometimes theatrical showcase of this bands talent. If you ever thought that the Scorpions were simply a glam-arena rock band, think again. Listen closely, and you'll find out they are so much more.

TRACK HIGHLIGHTS:

"Soul Behind The Face"

"But The Best For You"

"Are You The One?"

"Wild Child"

"Does Anyone Know"

"You And I"

"When You Came Into My Life"

-Kurt L.

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