Discover the Album That Ignited Axl Rose: Hanoi Rocks’ Two Steps From The Move
Imagine a world where Guns N’ Roses’ iconic album “Appetite for Destruction” may never have come to be without the influence of Hanoi Rocks’ “Two Steps From The Move.” Axl Rose’s admiration for Hanoi Rocks in the early 80s while forming Guns N’ Roses is well-documented, particularly noting the impact of Hanoi’s fifth album on his musical direction. With standout lyrics like “Welcome to the jungle/Deep inside of me” in their song “Underwater World,” Hanoi Rocks was a force to be reckoned with.
Hailing from Finland, Hanoi Rocks seemed to have it all – a charismatic frontman in Michael Monroe and a trailblazing lead guitarist in Andy McCoy. Their unique blend of classic rock and punk-glam aesthetic set them apart in the music scene. Despite their previous albums not quite hitting the mark, the band caught their big break with a deal from major label CBS and set their sights high with “Two Steps From The Move.”
Recording at New York’s Record Plant, Hanoi Rocks captured lightning in a bottle with this album, showcasing their full technicolour glory. From the scuzzy energy of “Boulevard Of Broken Dreams” to the haunting beauty of “Don’t You Ever Leave Me,” the band explored deeper, darker depths in tracks like “Underwater World.” Collaborating with music legends like Ian Hunter and covering classics like John Fogerty’s “Up Around The Bend,” Hanoi Rocks made their mark on the rock pantheon.
As they rode the wave of success with their lead single landing on MTV and even attracting the attention of Andy Warhol, tragedy struck. A fateful gig in Syracuse left frontman Michael Monroe with a fractured ankle, halting their momentum. Deciding to party with Mötley Crüe in LA while Monroe recovered seemed like a harmless distraction, but it ended in disaster.
During a trip to replenish their liquor stocks, a car crash took the life of drummer Razzle, shattering the band’s spirits. Vince Neil’s impaired state behind the wheel of a sports car led to the tragic accident, leaving Razzle dead and the future of Hanoi Rocks uncertain. The loss of Razzle marked the end of an era for the band as they struggled to cope with the aftermath of the devastating event.
Despite the untimely demise of Razzle, Hanoi Rocks’ music continues to resonate with fans and hold a significant place in rock history. The legacy of “Two Steps From The Move” lives on as a reminder of the band’s talent and the tragic turn of events that cut their journey short. The impact of Hanoi Rocks on the music world, especially on artists like Guns N’ Roses, is undeniable, proving that even in the face of tragedy, their music endures.
