The Runaways

During the Runaways' brief but colorful career, it seemed like a main argument among their fans concerned whether they were punk or metal. Looking back on their recordings via compilations, including the 12-track Neon Angels, the aforementioned argument becomes pointless -- the bottom line is that the all-female quintet penned anthems worthy of any of the other better-known bands at the time (not to mention helping to break down gender barriers in hard rock). While their full-lengths are fine and dandy, Neon Angels does an admirable job in providing a taste of a wider range of recordings from throughout their career. Included is the great "Cherry Bomb" (which probably would've shot up the charts if it had been recorded by a band like Kiss at the time), as well as such other stompers as "Blackmail" and "Born to Be Bad" (the latter of which includes an unexpected Pretenders-esque breakdown). The Runaways may have never become a household word (which is a shame, especially when compared to most of the tepid "arena rock" of the era), but their legacy prevails and their music holds up incredibly well -- as evidenced by Neon Angels. ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide