Old Story (1996): Taking a brave new direction
Slang has been an aid to musical self-expression since songwriting began, so when singer Joe Elliott explains why Def Leppard's first album for four years bears such an enigmatic title, his answer has a familiar ring. "We're using the word 'slang' like a bleep, the same way we've missed out words on songs that obviously would have been swear or sexual words," says Elliott.
"If there was no slang language, there would be no rock'n'roll. You can't walk into the Houses of Parliament and go 'I ain't got nobody' - but if you're Ella Fitzgerald, Little Richard, Johnny Rotten or me you can make a living out of it." Like Mercury stablemates Bon Jovi, Def Leppard are embarking on a new risk-taking musical chapter. The wall-to-wall harmonies are used sparingly, anthemic choruses now take second place to overall feel and the lyrics are more oblique.
Elliott anticipates brickbats as well as bouquets from fans. "We just hope people give it the chance. I'm sure there's a few out there who want more of the same - but we need to be able to grow up."