Dangerous Toys Revive Their Legacy with Definitive Reissue
Brace yourselves, metalheads! Kenyon Records has just dropped a thunderous announcement: 'Dangerous Toys: The Definitive Edition' is set to hit the streets on November 13, 2026. This isn't just any reissue; it's a full-throttle, band-approved revival of the self-titled 1989 debut that put Austin's sleaze-metal titans on the map. The mastermind behind this sonic resurrection? None other than the legendary Max Norman, who has returned to the studio to remaster this classic from the ground up, ensuring that both vinyl and CD enthusiasts get the utmost audio fidelity.
This heavyweight reissue comes in multiple formats: a 2xCD, 2xLP, and even a 2xcassette edition. But what truly sets it apart are the nine previously unreleased live recordings from the band's electrifying 1989 tour—a treasure trove unearthed straight from frontman Jason McMaster's personal collection of soundboard cassettes. These recordings have been tightly held secrets until now, and the 2xCD even features an exclusive live bonus track of the fan-favorite, 'That Dog.' McMaster himself expressed his excitement, stating, 'I was excited to hear these somewhat raw but cool recordings from long ago for the first time in at least 30 years, maybe more.'
DANGEROUS TOYS rose from the vibrant Austin scene in October 1987, melding Southern-fried hard rock with a punk-infused attitude that can only be described as a wild marriage between AEROSMITH and ZZ TOP, all wrapped in a sleazy exterior. With McMaster leading the charge alongside guitarist Scott Dalhover, bassist Mike Watson, and drummer Mark Geary, the band was scooped up by a major label without ever laying down a demo—thanks to the buzz generated by a live local radio broadcast cassette. Within a year, they were thrust into the spotlight, leading to a bidding war among labels eager to sign these rising stars.
The original album, produced at the hallowed Sound City studio, dropped on May 9, 1989, featuring the now-iconic artwork of Tommy Pons and spawning iconic hits like 'Teas'n, Pleas'n' and 'Scared.' 'Teas'n, Pleas'n' even ascended to the top of MTV's 'Dial MTV,' knocking the likes of BON JOVI off their throne. The album catapulted the band into the limelight, earning a gold certification from the RIAA and securing support slots with heavyweights like JUDAS PRIEST and MOTÖRHEAD.
For die-hard fans and collectors, the 'Dangerous Toys: The Definitive Edition' boasts limited formats, including a 2xCD with a deluxe booklet, a 2xLP in various collectible colors, and a 2xCassette exclusive to the Kenyon Records webstore. Each format has been meticulously crafted to showcase the raw energy and unbridled spirit of DANGEROUS TOYS, making this reissue not just a trip down memory lane, but an essential piece of heavy metal history.