Samson's best album, 1981's Shock Tactics, was the last to feature singer
Bruce Dickinson (then known simply as Bruce Bruce). The band's songwriting had improved and was comparable to other up-and-coming British heavy metal bands at the time, such as
Saxon,
Diamond Head, and
Iron Maiden. The band also benefited greatly by the presence of producer
Tony Platt, known for his work with
AC/DC, among other heavy metal acts. Kicking off with their best-known song, "Riding with the Angels" (penned by ex-
Argent singer
Russ Ballard), other highlights include "Earth Mother," "Blood Lust," and "Communion." "Nice Girl," however, treads on
Spinal Tap-territory with it's woefully cliched and predictable lyrics. Although
Samson would continue after the release of Shock Tactics, Dickinson would go on to greater success and acclaim when he replaced
Paul Di'Anno in
Iron Maiden. ~ Greg Prato