What makes Animal by Def Leppard notable?

The song 'Animal' peaked at number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100, contributing to the commercial success of 'Hysteria', which ultimately sold over 25 million copies worldwide. Its polished production and catchy hooks helped define the glam metal sound of the late 80s and influenced countless bands that followed. In 1987, Def Leppard was riding high on the success of their previous album, 'Hysteria', which had catapulted them to international fame. 'Animal' served as a lead single from their follow-up album, 'Hysteria', showcasing their continued evolution in sound and solidifying their status in the rock scene.

How many songs are on Animal?

Animal has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Animal

Def Leppard · 1987

12 min · 3 tracks · hard rock

A muscular blend of polished hard rock and anthemic choruses, bursting with energy and a touch of glam.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Animal (extended version) — The extended version amplifies the original's punchy rhythm and catchy hooks, making it emblematic of Def Leppard's signature sound while offering fans a more immersive experience.
→
Animal — 'Animal' captures the band's knack for blending hard rock with pop sensibilities, featuring an infectious chorus that remains a staple at their live performances.
→
Tear It Down — This track showcases a heavier edge compared to the other songs on the album, highlighting Def Leppard's ability to balance melodic elements with raw power.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong hooks and polished production typical of its era but lacks depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The extended version of 'Animal' features additional instrumental sections that enhance the song's anthemic quality.
The production employs a polished sound with prominent guitar riffs and a driving rhythm section.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Helped solidify Def Leppard's fame following 'Hysteria'.
Career context: In 1987, Def Leppard was riding high on the success of their previous album, 'Hysteria', which had catapulted them to international fame. 'Animal' served as a lead single from their follow-up album, 'Hysteria', showcasing their continued evolution in sound and solidifying their status in the rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Bon Jovi· Journey· Mötley Crüe