Back to the Bars
97 min · 20 tracks · hard rock
A vibrant showcase of Todd Rundgren's eclectic style, blending soulful melodies with intricate rock arrangements and introspective lyrics.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Hello It's Me — This track encapsulates Rundgren's ability to blend introspective lyrics with a catchy melody, making it one of his most recognizable songs.
-
→
Real Man Start here — The song's confident declaration of self-identity is underscored by a rich arrangement, exemplifying Rundgren’s knack for crafting engaging pop-rock anthems.
-
→
The Verb 'To Love' — This lengthy exploration of love combines complex musical transitions with profound lyrical reflections, showcasing Rundgren's artistic ambition and depth.
-
→
Love of the Common Man — With its infectious rhythm and relatable themes, this track serves as an anthem celebrating everyday life, encapsulating Rundgren's songwriting strength.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic journey with emotional peaks
- reflective moments for deep thinking
- inviting sing-alongs with friends
- engaging storytelling through varied pacing
- for late-night introspection
Maybe skip if you
- prefer quick and straightforward songs
- seek constant high-energy tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Showcases Rundgren's live energy post-commercial success, solidifying his reputation.
- Themes
- live performance energy· everyday life celebration· introspective love exploration
- Career context
- Released in 1978, 'Back to the Bars' captures Todd Rundgren at a transitional point in his career after his peak commercial success with 'Something/Anything?'. This live album features a mix of new material and reimagined classics, emphasizing his prowess as both a performer and songwriter following a series of ambitious studio projects.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Brian Eno· Roxy Music· David Bowie
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Real Man Start here 4:34
- 2 Love of the Common Man 3:33
- 3 The Verb "To Love" 7:42
- 4 Love in Action 3:31
- 5 A Dream Goes on Forever 2:22
- 6 Sometimes I Don't Know What to Feel 4:13
- 7 The Range War 2:39
- 8 Black and White 4:41
- 9 The Last Ride 4:50
- 10 Cliché 3:48
- 11 Don't You Ever Learn? 5:45
Disc 2
- 1 Never Never Land 2:42
- 2 Black Maria 5:31
- 3 Zen Archer 5:16
- 4 Medley: I'm So Proud / Ooh Baby Baby / La La Means I Love You / I Saw the Light 10:47
- 5 It Wouldn't Have Made Any Difference 4:42
- 6 Eastern Intrigue 5:28
- 7 Initiation 7:05
- 8 Couldn't I Just Tell You 4:05
- 9 Hello It's Me 4:26
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Young Americans
David Bowie
Combines soulful melodies with rock arrangements and introspective themes, echoing Rundgren's eclectic style.
Aja
Steely Dan
Features intricate musicianship and a fusion of jazz and rock, aligning with Rundgren's vibrant arrangements.
Still Crazy After All These Years
Paul Simon
Shares introspective lyrics and a mix of pop and soul influences, resonating with Rundgren's emotional depth.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.