The Last Command is the second studio album by the American heavy metal band W.A.S.P., released on October 25, 1985. The album was produced by Spencer Proffer, who was perhaps best known for producing the six-time Platinum selling album Metal Health by Quiet Riot in 1983.
The song "Running Wild in the Streets" was originally written by Proffer and demoed by Spectre General a.k.a. Kick Axe and Black Sabbath with Ron Keel before release on this album. "Sex Drive" was originally written by Blackie Lawless and Randy Piper's previous band Sister. "Cries in the Night" is based on a song called "Mr. Cool", released on a 1976 single by the Killer Kane Band which Blackie fronted at the time.
The Last Command is the first W.A.S.P. album to feature the work of drummer Steve Riley and the last album to feature founding member Randy Piper on guitar. The album reached No. 49 on the Billboard 200 album chart in early 1986. It was certified gold by the RIAA on June 4, 1998.
Contents
Background
Following the departure of Tony Richards, Steve Riley joined the band beginning with this album. The band also brought in Spencer Proffer—known for his work with Quiet Riot—as the producer. In addition, Carlos Cavazo and Chuck Wright, who were members of Quiet Riot at the time, contributed backing vocals to the track "Running Wild in the Streets."
In Japan, Toshiba EMI released not only the standard edition but also a limited edition (S33-1001) that included a poster, booklet, stickers, and a decorative band logo.
After the tour supporting this album, Randy Piper left the band, and Blackie Lawless subsequently switched his role from bassist to guitarist.
Personnel
W.A.S.P.
Blackie Lawless – lead vocals, bass guitar
Chris Holmes – lead & rhythm guitars
Randy Piper – lead & rhythm guitars, backing vocals
Steve Riley – drums, backing vocals
Additional musicians
Carlos Cavazo, Chuck Wright – Backing vocals on "Running Wild in the Streets"
Production
Spencer Proffer – producer, engineer
Suzanna DuBarry – producer assistant
Hanspeter Huber – engineer
Alex Woltman, Kevin Arnst – assistant engineers
Steve Hall – mastering at Future Disc, Hollywood
Mark Weiss – photography