Ric Ocasek - Troublizing (1997)

Perhaps inspired by the alternative bands he produced (Weezer, Bad Religion, Hole, Nada Surf), Ric Ocasek decided to return to guitar pop with Troublizing. In many ways, its angular riffs, pulsating rhythms and catchy pop hooks echo Ocasek's days with the Cars, but co-producer Billy Corgan gives the album a heavier sound that relies on guitars. Backed with a band that features former Cars Greg Hawkes, Hole's Melissa Auf der Maur, Bad Religion's Brian Baker and Corgan, Ocasek sounds more energetic than he has in years. Troublizing doesn't have too many memorable songs, but its consistency and tough sound make it his best collection of songs since Heartbeat City.

Tracklist:

01. The Next Right Moment
02. Hang On Tight
03. Crashland Consequence
04. Troublizing
05. Not Shocked
06. Situation
07. Fix On You
08. People We Know
09. Here We Go
10. Society Trance
11. Asia Minor

Recorded at Electric Lady Studios, New York, NY

• Ric Ocasek - vocals, guitars
• Melissa Auf der Maur - bass, vocals
• Brian Baker - guitars
• Greg Hawkes - keyboards
• Ira Elliot - drums
• Matt Walker - drums
• Billy Corgan - guitars, vocals & keys on 3, 6, 8, 11

Original Release Date: September 9, 1997
Label: Columbia (Sony Music)