The Stabilizers were an American pop/rock band from Erie, Pennsylvania, founded in the early 1980s by musicians Dave Christenson (lead vocals), England-born Rich Nevens (guitars and occasional keyboards), and Dan Haight (drums). The guitar and synth-laced album followed in the style of other 1980s bands such as a-ha, Duran Duran, Tears for Fears and Mr. Mister. The first single from Tyranny was "One Simple Thing," which peaked at number 21 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart in 1986 and number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1987, helped by the band's performance of the song on American Bandstand.

This brings back many memories! I was dating Dave Christensen during the time that he wrote and recorded this album. I remember the days of watching them play in Erie before they went to CA. We dated for 2 years up until he left to go record this album. I often think how great it would be to get everyone together and hear them play live again. There is another song floating out there. One of the guys came back and played it for me. He said "Dave is still writing about you, but he won't admit it until the day that he dies!". Many of the songs on the Tyranny were written from our relationship, like "I don't need the pain".

I bought this album on cassette upon its release.It became instantly my favorite.Only about a year earlier i immigrated from Germany and i couldn't believe this was an american band,since at that time mostly only the british could muster such great tunes.And since i live in northeast Ohio,it was even more amazing that a group from Erie,PA released such a gem.Impossible to pick a favorite song.No fillers.This outing ranks without reservations among the top 10 albums of the 80's.If only it contained a couple more songs.And why did they never release another one?One can hear their musical & songwriting skills shine all the way through.One of the most underrated group and album,just like the aussies 'Icehouse'.I have just purchased this release through I-Tunes.Haven't heard these tunes in over 20 years and they still sound as fresh as then.I also have just ordered the soundtrack 'If Looks Could Kill' from Amazon to get the only missing Stabilizers song 'Maybe This Time'.They should get together and give it another try.