Extremely successful in the late ‘80s, Winger is a band who often do not get the respect they deserve. Formed by Kip Winger, a trained student of music, prior to Winger’s mainstream success Kip actually contributed bass and vocals to Alice Cooper’s 1986 Constrictor and 1987 Raise Your Fist and Yell albums. Interestingly enough, he and Paul Taylor (who was also touring with Alice Cooper), crossed paths again in late 1987 when joining together for Winger. A band Kip had been mentally manifesting for some time, he, Guitarist Reb Beach, along with acclaimed Drummer Rod Morgenstein along with Guitarist John Roth made up Winger… and they were boiling over with talent.
With these weapons in their arsenal, 1988 was a big year for the band with the release of their debut studio album. Simply entitled Winger, the album was chalked full of radio friendly styling, but also uber impressive guitar work; brought to life by Beau Hill (who worked on decade defining albums such as Ratt’s 1984’s Out of the Cellar). The start of something special, Winger went platinum, and so did their 1990 follow up, In the Heart of the Young. Following these with arguably their best yet, 1993’s Pull, there is no question the Atlantic Record era for Winger was something to remember.
A time well worth celebrating, now for the first time ever, the band’s best-selling albums will be compiled together in a new box set called Chapter One: Atlantic Years 1988-1993. Set for release on November 17, 2023 via Atlantic/BMG, and available as both vinyl and CD set, it includes the band’s self-titled debut from ’88, In the Heart of the Young from ’90, plus Pull from ’93. Remastered by Ted Jensen (who has mastered classic records including Eagles’ 1973 classic Hotel California), these albums have never sounded better. Dynamic, crisp, and bright, and something Kip himself oversaw, he states, “I’m very proud of this box set. It captures an unforgettable era for the band and these are the only remasters I officially endorse.”
So, with these albums discussed, a bonus to the set is a demo collection. Entitled Demo Anthology, it includes original demo versions of the band’s biggest tracks. Initially put out in 2007, the demo set offers insight to the development of many tracks and where they would eventually end up.
Adding to everything, physically the box set is also very attractive. Presented in a solid box, the vinyl edition has each album individually packaged with original artwork while also including an absolutely gorgeous glossy vinyl size booklet with rare photos and personal essays by each member of the band reflecting on these unforgettable times for Winger.
Simply put, Chapter One: Atlantic Years 1988-1993 is a must have for any Winger fan. Recommended in either the vinyl or CD edition, as mentioned, the albums each sound amazing, plus Atlantic/BMG did not skimp on the quality. And if you are interested, Winger actually released an absolutely impressive new album earlier in 2023 entitled Seven. Now we can only hope there is a Chapter Two to bridge the gap between 1994 and present day… but until then, soak up everything this set and the Seven album has to offer. A great Christmas present for yourself or music fans in your family, Cryptic Rock gives Winger’s Chapter One: Atlantic Years 1988-1993, 5 out of 5 stars.
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