Come Out Fighting Ghengis Smith cover

Come Out Fighting Ghengis Smith

Roy Harper · 1968

67 min · 16 tracks · traditional folk music

A sprawling blend of traditional folk and poetic lyricism, captured through intricate melodies and vivid storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Come Out Fighting Ghengis Smith — The title track exemplifies Harper's intricate storytelling through a combination of narrative depth and musical complexity, reflecting the tumultuous spirit of its era.
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    Ageing Raver — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics that explore themes of aging and nostalgia, set against a lively, engaging melody.
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    What You Have — Offering a contemplative take on materialism, this song melds poignant lyrics with a haunting melody, making it a memorable highlight of the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • poetic storytelling in every track
  • reflective moments for deep thinking
  • gentle pacing with occasional bursts
  • immersive narratives that unfold gradually
  • quirky charm for casual listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1968, Come Out Fighting Ghengis Smith was Roy Harper's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Flat Baroque and Berserk. At this point, Harper was gaining recognition as a distinct voice in British folk music, known for his thought-provoking lyrics and innovative sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Nick Drake· John Martyn· Leonard Cohen

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Freak Street 3:05
  • 2 You Don’t Need Money 2:27
  • 3 Ageing Raver 4:10
  • 4 In a Beautiful Rambling Mess 2:50
  • 5 All You Need Is 5:48
  • 6 What You Have 5:16
  • 7 Circle 10:40
  • 8 Highgate Cemetary 2:21
  • 9 Come Out Fighting Ghengis Smith 8:58
  • 10 Zaney Janey 3:31
  • 11 Ballad of Songwriter 3:09
  • 12 Midspring Dithering 2:49
  • 13 Zenjem 1:36
  • 14 It's Tomorrow and Today Is Yesterday 4:11
  • 15 Francesca 1:31
  • 16 She's the One 4:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata