In 1985 Wilmer X was at the height of their early, dirtier period. They would later turn to a smoother, more poppy and commercially successful sound, using keyboards (if just a little) and trying out things like Latin rhythms. But here, all that can be heard of that is the pop melodies, for Under Hot is probably the best example of Wilmer X's distinctive mix of intensive rock & roll and catchy choruses. The title even became a slogan for the group, describing the music as if the band was constantly threatened to their lives while playing, and thus making desperate and sweaty music. This is true at times, like in "Spelar Under Hot" and after they kick in the higher gear in "Ner I Det Blå," and Lorensson's harmonica does give some songs an energy they would not otherwise have had. If there is something negative to be said about this album, it is that it's not very varied, and after listening through it a few times, you may still not be able to tell the songs apart. But while you are listening, the music is energetic and sometimes on the frantic side; the band live probably blew most pub rockers off-stage in the mid-'80s.
© Lars Lovén /TiVo