Lack of Communication (song)

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"Lack of Communication"

Single by Ratt
from the album Out of the Cellar
Released	1984
Format	Vinyl LP, Cassette, CD
Recorded	1984
Genre	Glam Metal
Length	03:52
Label	Atlantic
Producer(s)	Beau Hill
Ratt singles chronology
"Wanted Man" (1984)	Lack of Communication (1984)	"Lay It Down" (1985)

Lack of Communication is a song recorded by American glam metal band Ratt. It is the sixth track on their classic album Out of the Cellar. It was released as a single in 1984 through Atlantic Records. It is 3:52 long. The single didn't make the charts, however it received some radio play and has even become a favorite amongst the vast fanbase of the group during the ensuing years. The song was co-written by group bassist Juan Croucier and vocalist Stephen Pearcy. It is notable as one of the few Ratt songs to feature alternate timing: the song's main riff and chorus are in 7/8 timing, while the rest of the song is in 4/4.

[edit] Theme

Lack of Communication is a deep rumination on the paradox of modern conflict and human interaction in general. By greater implication, the duality of man itself is also explored.

The band was truly bold with this statement of absolute resolve to a problem that (superficially at least) is generally seen as relative in nature. That compromise can achieve conflict resolution was still a novel concept when the song was written and not wholly embraced by the academic community at the time.

While Ratt wasn't particularly noted for reaching the level of depth attained by the bands who followed in their footsteps, they no doubtedly served as the metaphorical bridge between the pulp nature of 1980s glam rock and the more thoughtful and organic alt-rock of the 1990s. Many cite Ratt as the forerunners to Guns N' Roses and Nirvana.

The lyrical theme of the song serves as a testament to the songwriting versatility of band. Most other glam metal bands focused on casual sex, alcoholic consumption, illicit drug use, and the occult. Ratt exhibited introspective, intelligent, observant, witty and at times even poignant reflections on matters greater than cartoonish fantasy.

The music itself was ahead of its peers as it features a thrashier sound as well as darker riffs than was popular in metal during the early to mid 1980s. Juan Croucier's daring composition melded well with Stephen Pearcy's controversial lyrics.

Though a bit too revolutionary to chart when released in 1984, the song nonetheless enjoyed considerable radio play and to this day continues to do so on classic rock radio stations.