VAIN – Disintegrate Together

Vain are a Glam Metal / Hard Rock band formed in 1986 in San Francisco by vocalist Davy Vain. Their debut album, No Respect (1989), was hailed as one of the most underrated albums of all time, at least in their eyes. Though lineup and label changes are not shocking in the music industry, it doesn’t help ease the pressure of making new music so late in the game. Their last studio album, Rolling with the Punches (2017), was released seven years ago. Disintegrate Together (2024), their eighth studio album, has the classic ‘80s Hard Rock sound that Vain are known for, but without the overly polished production style of other Glam Metal bands.

Back in ’89, Sort Of

Look, Davy’s voice isn’t perfect. In fact, it sounds whiny at times, especially in the high register. But, his vocal style fits the carefree and unapologetic vibes of Rock ‘n’ Roll. It’s not like Mick Jagger is a perfect vocalist either. The album opens with upbeat rocker “Cold Like Snow.” “Don’t You Think,” the grooviest song on the album, is for those who love funky bass lines and wah wah guitars. “The Flowers” follows that winning formula, as well. Another factor that separates Vain from the Glam Metal bands back in the day, at least on this album, is the raw drum sound. The drums feel organic and fresh, rather than polished and robotic.

Final Assessment

“Can’t You See Me Floating” sees the band diving into AC/DC with a killer guitar riff, backed by infectious melodies. “KC Swinger” is a groovy headbanger that’ll sure get the crowd moving and not to make a pun out of it, but the song swings hard. Proving that Vain are not a one-trick pony, the album closes with the moody and atmospheric title track. As an overall package, Disintegrate Together is filled with melodic hooks, tasteful guitar playing, raw drums, funky bass lines, and a whole lot of fun.

Album Tracklist

1. Cold Like Snow
2. Don’t You Think
3. You Better Keep an Eye on That Girl
4. The Flowers
5. Holding On For Love
6. Can’t You See Me Floating
7. Back in ’89
8. KC Swinger
9. Pictures of You in Red
10. Disintegrate Together

Band Lineup

Davy Vain – lead vocals
Dylana Nova Scott – guitars
Tommy Rikard – drums
Louie Senor – drums
Ashley Mitchell – bass guitar