Naked Prey

The Profile

Naked Prey is an American rock band from Tucson, Arizona, led by Van Christian. Emerging in the 1980s, they forged a heavier, desert-tinged take on American guitar rock, adjacent to the Paisley movement but pointing toward the desert-rock sound. Their 1984 debut featured contributions from Steve Wynn, Paul Cutler, and Dan Stuart; later, Under The Blue Marlin yielded the standout What Price For Freedom.

Formed in Tucson, Arizona; led by Van Christian (previously with The Serfers, precursor to Green On Red). Debut album released in 1984 on Down There, with contributions by Steve Wynn, Paul Cutler, and Dan Stuart. Sound often characterized as a heavy, early desert-rock approach rather than strict Paisley Underground; notable track What Price For Freedom appears on Under The Blue Marlin.

One review celebrates Naked Prey’s 1984 debut: a heavy, hard-edged spin on classic American rock, informed by but not confined to the Paisley sound. It notes contributions from Steve Wynn, Paul Cutler, and Dan Stuart, and frames the band as early standard-bearers of desert-stoner rock from Tucson. The piece spotlights later track What Price For Freedom from Under The Blue Marlin. Overall tone: affectionate toward Van Christian and this perennial cult outfit.