Rough Cutt – Take A Chance

In the mid-1980s, the Hair Metal scene was bursting with energy, and Rough Cutt was one of the bands clawing for recognition amid a crowded field. Their song “Take A Chance”—a standout track from their sophomore album Wants You! – captured both the ambition and the turbulence of the era.

The Album and Production

Released in 1986, Wants You! was Rough Cutt’s second studio album, following their self-titled debut in 1985. The album was produced by Jack Douglas, known for his work with Aerosmith and Cheap Trick. His involvement brought a polished yet gritty edge to the band’s sound, helping to refine their blend of melodic hooks and hard-hitting riffs.

“Take A Chance” appears as the fifth track on the album, nestled between the high-octane “Hot ’n’ Heavy” and the anthemic “We Like It Loud.” The album itself was released under Warner Bros. Records and showcased a more mature, confident sound from the band, though it didn’t achieve major commercial success.

Lyrics and Themes

Lyrically, “Take A Chance” is a rallying cry for resilience and risk-taking. Lines like:

“It’s now or never / You can wait for heaven / But I can’t wait forever”

underscore the urgency of seizing the moment. The song speaks to the emotional push-pull of ambition and hesitation, a theme that resonated with many young listeners navigating the uncertainties of youth and identity in the 1980s.

Band Lineup and State of Affairs

In 1986, Rough Cutt’s lineup featured Paul Shortino on vocals, Amir Derakh and Chris Hager on guitars, Matt Thorr on bass, and Dave Alford on drums. Despite their talent and a growing fanbase, the band was facing internal pressures and industry challenges. That same year, tensions began to mount, and by 1987, Shortino would leave the band to join Quiet Riot – marking the beginning of Rough Cutt’s unraveling.

Though Rough Cutt never reached the commercial heights of some of their peers, “Take A Chance” remains a time capsule of 1980s hard rock ambition—equal parts swagger, sincerity, and sonic punch. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most compelling music comes from bands who dared to take a chance, even if the odds weren’t in their favor.