EP review: BILLY IDOL – The Roadside EP

Dark Horse Records [Release date 17.09.21]

Billy Idol has recently released “The Roadside EP”, his first new material since 2014’s “Kings & Queens of The Underground”, and what a welcome return it is. The EP was produced by Butch Walker and long-time Idol guitarist/songwriter Steve Stevens and almost has two sides to it (no pun intended). Opening track “Rita Hayworth” is a track that is literally dripping with sleaze. sneer and swagger while “U Don’t Have To Kiss Me Like That” is a hark back to the classic Idol sound of the 80’s, more so then the afore mentioned “Kings & Queens of The Underground” and both the tracks are a perfect fit alongside anything in his back catalogue.

Then we come to first single “Bitter Taste”, a song that I would stick my neck out and say could be the best thing he has released for years. This is a mature, reflective sounding Billy Idol with an almost country edge to it, the song goes deep and addresses death, rebirth and the near fatal motorbike accident he suffered in the early 90’s. The EP‘s final track is “Baby Put Your Clothes Back On”, another slower and more melodic track that works well with “Bitter Taste”.

“The Roadside EP” is a great record and will please fans of Billy Idol, who has just announced a UK tour for next year. *****

Review by Nikk Gunns


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