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.