A Spanner in the Works cover

A Spanner in the Works

Rod Stewart · 1995

57 min · 12 tracks · new wave · R&B · blues rock

Rod Stewart's soulful raspy vocals blend with lush instrumentation, creating a rich tapestry of pop and blues influences.

Why this album works

'A Spanner in the Works' received favorable reviews and showcased Stewart's ability to craft hits well into his career, peaking at number 20 on the UK Albums Chart. It also featured 'Leave Virginia Alone,' which became a notable track for its airplay and critical acclaim, further solidifying Stewart’s position in the pop-rock genre during the mid-90s.
Best for
long, immersive listening sessions contemplative evening reflections layered, dense sonic textures
Context
By the time 'A Spanner in the Works' was released in 1995, Rod Stewart had already established himself as a rock and pop icon over three decades. This album marked his return to the studio after a four-year hiatus following 'One Night Only' in 1993, showcasing his enduring appeal and adaptability to changing musical landscapes.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Windy Town Standout 5:12
  • 2 The Downtown Lights Standout 6:33
  • 3 Leave Virginia Alone Standout 4:07
  • 4 Sweetheart Like You 4:54
  • 5 This 5:19
  • 6 Lady Luck 4:25
  • 7 You’re the Star 4:40
  • 8 Muddy, Sam and Otis 4:42
  • 9 Hang on St. Christopher 4:04
  • 10 Delicious 4:43
  • 11 Soothe Me 3:33
  • 12 Purple Heather 4:56

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata