08.06.10 Review

I don't get the negativity directed at Diver Down from friends over the years that I have had discussions about all things Van Halen. Yes, half the album consist of covers. Who the f*ck cares? It's how you give old songs a new spin and make it your own. And boy, they make it their own. So much so that I actually find it very hard to even listen to the originals anymore because the VH-infused versions are permanently embedded into my psyche.

I have played Diver Down probably just as much as I have 1984 with repeated listens over the years. I never get tired of it. It's a great party record IMO.

What's not to love about this one? From Where Have All The Good Times Gone to Oh, Pretty Woman to Little Guitars. Even the "sappy" songs Big Bad Bill (Is Sweet William Now) and Happy Trails just leaves a big grin on my face.

And let's not forget about Eddie. It has Cathedral, Little Guitars (Intro) and my personal favorite of the bunch, Intruder. As great as Eruption from Van Halen (Self Titled) is for obvious reasons, I personally have always liked Intruder more with its wall of squeals and noises, the kicker being his "Elephant" technique which consisted of a used beer can.

Fave Songs: Every last f*cking one of them!!!!!!!

I won't be listening to any other Van Halen records for the rest of the night tonight as this one will get repeated spins till I fall asleep.