Crack a Smile... and More! – Poison (2000)
Released in 2000, Crack a Smile... and More! is the fifth studio album by Poison — although its history stretches back to the mid-1990s. Originally recorded in 1996 as a comeback album, the project was shelved after internal turmoil and lineup changes. It finally saw official release four years later, expanded with bonus live material.
The album captures a transitional moment for Poison: attempting to modernize their sound while staying connected to their melodic hard rock roots.
Album Credits
Band Members (Original 1996 Sessions):
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Bret Michaels – Lead Vocals
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C.C. DeVille – Lead & Rhythm Guitar
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Bobby Dall – Bass
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Rikki Rockett – Drums
Producer:
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Rick Parashar
Label (2000 Release):
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Beyond Records
Recording Year: 1996
Official Release Year: 2000
Genre: Hard Rock / Melodic Rock
Album Tracklist
Studio Tracks (Original 1996 Recordings)
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Be the One
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Shut Up, Make Love
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Baby Gets Around a Bit
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Cover of the Rolling Stone
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Best Thing You Ever Had
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Theatre of the Soul II
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Sexually Twisted
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Lay Your Body Down
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No Ring, No Gets
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That’s the Way I Like It
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Tragically Unhip
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Doin’ as I Seen on My TV
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One More for the Bone
Bonus Live Tracks (From 1990 Performance)
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Every Rose Has Its Thorn (Live)
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Unskinny Bop (Live)
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Nothin’ But a Good Time (Live)
Total Length: Approx. 75 minutes
Cover Art & Design – Mini Description
The cover artwork features a playful yet edgy aesthetic, reflecting the album’s title. It leans toward a late-90s polished rock look rather than the flamboyant glam style of Poison’s 80s peak.
The visual presentation suggests a band reconnecting with fun while acknowledging the passage of time.
Musical Style & Sound
Crack a Smile... and More! blends:
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Mid-90s melodic hard rock
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Polished radio-ready hooks
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Bluesy guitar elements
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Classic Poison-style choruses
Tracks like “Shut Up, Make Love” carry a heavier edge, while “Be the One” and “Lay Your Body Down” highlight melodic sensibilities. The inclusion of “Cover of the Rolling Stone” (originally by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show) shows the band’s playful side.
The live bonus tracks remind listeners of Poison’s arena-dominating early-90s performances.
Fun Facts & Trivia
1. Shelved for Years
The album was completed in 1996 but never released due to internal conflicts and label complications.
2. C.C. DeVille’s Return
These sessions marked the return of C.C. DeVille after his earlier departure.
3. Grunge Aftermath
The original recording occurred during the post-grunge era, when glam metal bands were struggling commercially.
4. Expanded Release
The 2000 version added live recordings from Poison’s peak touring years.
Did You Know?
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Producer Rick Parashar was known for working with major 90s rock acts.
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The album circulated unofficially among fans before its official release.
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Some songs show a more contemporary 90s rock influence compared to earlier Poison albums.
