DEFIANTS, THE the defiants KICP1775

A Reunion of Melodic Rock Masters: The Defiants’ Self-Titled Debut (KICP 1775)

Today’s entry spotlights the debut album from the melodic rock supergroup The Defiants. We are looking at the 2016 Japanese pressing, released on the Nexus label (King Records) with the catalog number KICP 1775. This copy comes complete with its original obi strip.

Released on April 27, 2016, this album marked a significant reunion for fans of the band Danger Danger. The Defiants was formed by bassist and main songwriter Bruno Ravel, reuniting with his former bandmate, vocalist Paul Laine (who fronted Danger Danger for about 12 years), and guitarist Rob Marcello. They were joined in the studio by the renowned drummer Van Romaine (Steve Morse Band).

The album is widely celebrated as a masterpiece of the genre, delivering exactly what fans hoped for: energetic rock with massive, catchy melodies. It channels the spirit of classic American hard rock and melodic rock, drawing comparisons to bands like Firehouse, Harem Scarem, and Warrant, but with a fresh energy. Paul Laine’s vocals are praised for their power and emotion, while Rob Marcello provides technical yet song-oriented guitar work that serves the melody. Tracks like “Runaway,” “Take Me Back,” and “Waiting On A Heartbreak” are often cited as standouts that sound like instant classics.

As is customary with King Records releases, this Japanese edition offers exclusive value to collectors. It includes an acoustic version of “Waiting On A Heartbreak” as a bonus 13th track, adding a different flavor to one of the album’s highlights. KICP 1775 is an essential release for fans of Danger Danger and high-quality melodic hard rock, capturing a group of veterans delivering a “no-filler” album.