After signing to Phantom Glow Records in 1984, Wrathbone released their breakthrough album, Demolition. It was a critical and commercial hit, selling over 15 million copies worldwide, and kicking off a successful tour.
While on tour in 1985, Wrathbone began working on new material for their sophomore album, Heat of the Night. The commercial success of their previous album resulted in a bigger budget for the followup, allowing them to craft a more polished, mainstream rock sound.
In 1988, Wrathbone released their third and final studio album, Let It Burn. It marked a sharp commercial decline from the success of their previous work.
Frankie Ecco’s breakout single debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1988. The very same week, Wrathbone’s “Hell Hounds” stalled at No. 96, foreshadowing the decline of mainstream rock ‘n’ roll.
What do a cheap wig, a fake British accent, and a failed YouTube series have in common? They all helped inspire my latest horror musical, Wrathbone.
Before we rolled a single camera, we created five original songs inspired by the gloriously excessive sounds of the 1980s. Four hard-rocking metal tracks for our heroes, and one irresistibly catchy pop anthem for their arch nemesis.
Making Wrathbone was an exercise in creative ambition, logistical gymnastics, and a whole lot of collaboration.
