As evidenced by Ratt's self-titled 1983 EP, the group was much more raw and heavy early on, especially when compared to such later pop-metal releases as Dancin' Undercover. On his sophomore solo effort, 2005's Fueler, original Ratt singer Stephen Pearcy offers an album that is definitely heavier than the average Ratt release from the '80s. That said, Pearcy's voice is so identifiable with Ratt that you can't help but think that Fueler sounds pretty darn close to what a new album by a reunited Ratt would sound like in the early 21st century. It doesn't take long to realize that Pearcy is attempting to toughen up his sound, especially on such tracks as the album-opening "Overdrive," as well as "Godsmack" (which indeed sounds quite a bit like -- Godsmack). But while Pearcy may be trying to shed the more melodic style of Ratt, the singer refuses to turn his back on his past entirely as he covers his former group's biggest hit, "Round and Round" (titled "Round and RoundXXX" here). Also included on the disc is a video for the track "Drive with Me." Although Pearcy's album may be harder-edged than any of Ratt's, there's plenty for longtime fans to sink their teeth into on Fueler.