What makes Two Steps from the Move by Hanoi Rocks notable?

Two Steps from the Move is often regarded as one of Hanoi Rocks' most significant releases, reaching number 20 on the UK Albums Chart. The album's success contributed to the band's growing influence in the glam metal scene during the mid-1980s and has been cited by later artists as a key inspiration for their sound. Its release also coincided with a burgeoning interest in glam rock aesthetics in popular music. Released in 1984, Two Steps from the Move was Hanoi Rocks' fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed album, Back to Mystery City. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their reputation as pioneers of the glam punk genre, blending hard rock influences with a distinctively flamboyant aesthetic. The album came just before the band's dissolution in 1985, marking a pivotal moment as they approached mainstream visibility.

Who is Two Steps from the Move for?

Two Steps from the Move works well if you're into steady mid-tempo sing-alongs, youthful rebellion soundtrack and vibrant anthems for gatherings.

How many songs are on Two Steps from the Move?

Two Steps from the Move has 10 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Two Steps from the Move

Hanoi Rocks · 1984

41 min · 10 tracks · hard rock

A vibrant blend of glam rock energy and punk attitude, underscored by catchy hooks and theatrical flair.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
High School — This track captures the rebellious spirit of youth with an infectious chorus and energetic instrumentation, embodying the album's themes of freedom and angst.
→
Don't You Ever Leave Me — A poignant ballad that showcases the band's range and emotional depth, highlighting heartfelt lyrics set against a melodic backdrop.
→
Boulevard of Broken Dreams — This track stands out for its reflective lyrics and catchy hooks, illustrating a sense of yearning and disillusionment amidst a vibrant musical landscape.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and energetic performances but lacks a cohesive flow throughout.

What we noticed

The album opens with a cover of 'Up Around the Bend', setting a high-energy tone that persists through the first half.
Tracks like 'Don't You Ever Leave Me' and 'Million Miles Away' feature prominent guitar solos that drive their melodies.
The last three tracks slow down the tempo, creating a contrast that allows for more introspective moments.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
youthful rebellion soundtrack
vibrant anthems for gatherings
nostalgic energetic road trips

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective music
seek complex, experimental structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1984, Two Steps from the Move was Hanoi Rocks' fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed album, Back to Mystery City. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their reputation as pioneers of the glam punk genre, blending hard rock influences with a distinctively flamboyant aesthetic. The album came just before the band's dissolution in 1985, marking a pivotal moment as they approached mainstream visibility.
Stylistic neighbors: New York Dolls· The Darkness· T. Rex