Those Men Inside My Brain

Cheap Trick's Dream Police, released in 1979, stands as a pivotal moment in the band's career, helping mark their transition from cult favorites to mainstream rockers. Recorded at a time when the band was riding high from the success of their breakthrough live album, At Budokan, Dream Police pushed the band into a bigger, more polished, theatrical sound. Much of the album was recorded in 1978, but its release was delayed due to the massive popularity of At Budokan. Despite this, Dream Police holds its own as one of Cheap Trick's most ambitious efforts, blending their power pop sensibilities with grander orchestral elements. I picked it up last week so it’s today’s feature on I Own That Album! 

The album was produced by Tom Werman (this was Cheap Trick’s third in a row produced by him). Werman once again worked closely with the band to ensure that their signature sound—hard-hitting guitars, melodic hooks, and Robin Zander's dynamic vocals—remained intact, even as the arrangements became more elaborate. The title track, "Dream Police," is a perfect example of this, featuring lush string arrangements that add a dramatic flair without losing the band's raw energy.

The hooks keep coming with the track “Way of the World” and continue with the rockin’ “The House Is Rockin’ (With Domestic Problems)” with fantastic hooks from guitarist Rick Neilsen, some of his best on the album. The second side contains one of my favorite Cheap Trick songs, “Voices”, a moderate ballad that reminds of The Beatles influence on the band. 

In terms of its relevance to rock and roll, Dream Police helped solidify Cheap Trick's place in the pantheon of rock bands transitioning from the 1970s to the 1980s. The album's blend of power pop and hard rock, with a touch of theatricality, influenced countless bands that would follow in the 1980s rock scene.

They took the chance on experimenting with different styles while maintaining their rock roots. Dream Police is now regarded as a classic, both for its creativity and its role in cementing Cheap Trick as one of the most enduring bands in rock history. I’m so glad I grabbed it last week. You can borrow my copy if you’d like.