By 1988, Van Halen were the biggest band in the world. Sammy Hagar had established himself as a superior replacement to David Lee Roth. And ‘5150’ became the first #1 album out of four for the Pasadena legends. So the band tried to take it to the next level with 1988’s ‘OU812.’
For the most part, it worked. The album was a commercial success. However, it does remain the weakest of the Hagar era albums. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great album. ‘Mine All Mine’ kicks things off in efficient status. While one of the greatest ballads of all time, ‘When It’s Love,’ follows. Displaying a songwriting level and sensitivity that was previously unattainable. Alex Van Halen kicks off the next track with mega phat drummage in ‘A.F.U. (Naturally Wired).’ A live staple from the tour that shows Sammy Hagar led Van Halen has a superior edge to all rock bands. ‘Cabo Wabo’ isn’t just a killer song. It’s the beginning of a brand of tequila and restaurant chain that’s still prominent to this day. How many albums can claim that? ‘Source of Infection’ truly displays the leaps and bounds that Van Halen made under Sammy Hagar’s leadership. Tight, furious and timeless. It remains one of the most overlooked Van Halen tracks in their entire catalog.
‘Feels So Good’ is one of the great 80’s keyboard tracks that engraves Van Halen’s influence on the era. The down to Earth ‘Finish What Ya Started,’ is an acoustic rendition on the album. But live, it really kicks ass. ‘Black and Blue’ remains one of the most overlooked VH songs ever. The funk, the riff, the groove and soul. It’s all there. And while it had some late single success. It remains an overall deep cut that gets lost in the shuffle. ‘Sucker In a 3 Piece’ is pure Hagar Van Halen kick asserey. ‘A. Apolitical Blues’ finishes out the album in an unassuming fashion.
Upon its release, ‘OU812’ was an immediate success. Becoming the second consecutive number one album. The tour being a massive endeavor. Headlining the massive ‘Monsters of Rock’ tour. Which included Kingdom Come, Metallica, Dokken and Scorpions. However, over time, the album has lost a lot of steam. And has since gone by the wayside. Becoming the last or second to last on most fans’ list of best Van Halen albums. And while it’s the weakest of the four Sammy Hagar led records. It’s still in the top four best VH albums. Because the Sammy albums are the bands best work. It’s an incredible album that deserves more love. Like the rest of the Sammy albums. Crank it, live it, love it. Celebrate some ‘OU812.’
