What makes Hammer on a Drum by Payolas notable?

Hammer on a Drum generated significant radio play in Canada, particularly with tracks like I'll Find Another (Who Can Do It Right), which became a hit single. The album helped establish Payolas as a prominent act in the Canadian alternative rock movement of the early '80s. Released in 1983, Hammer on a Drum was the Payolas' second album, following their debut, In a Place Like This. At this point, the band was transitioning from their early sound into more polished production, solidifying their presence in the Canadian music scene.

How many songs are on Hammer on a Drum?

Hammer on a Drum has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Hammer on a Drum

Payolas · 1983

40 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of alternative rock and new wave, layered with catchy hooks and introspective lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I'll Find Another (Who Can Do It Right) — This track stands out for its infectious chorus and melodic guitar riffs, showcasing the band's knack for blending catchy pop sensibilities with rock influences.
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Where Is This Love — With its contemplative lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, this song captures the emotional depth and maturity that marks much of the album's appeal.
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No Prisoners — The driving rhythm and lyrical urgency in this track exemplify the band’s alternative rock edge while addressing themes of freedom and resistance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album features catchy hooks and introspective lyrics but lacks standout compositional depth.

What we noticed

Tracks are structured with clear verses and choruses, often featuring layered harmonies and prominent guitar riffs.
The tempo varies throughout, with several tracks maintaining a mid-tempo pace while others shift to more upbeat rhythms.
Lyrically, the songs explore themes of love and introspection, often contrasting upbeat instrumentals with reflective lyrics.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 I'll Find Another (Who Can Do It Right) 3:37
2 Where Is This Love 5:54
3 Wild West 3:11
4 Perhaps Some Day 3:30
5 Never Said I Loved You 3:18
6 No Prisoners 5:16
7 Christmas Is Coming 3:40
8 I Am a City 5:09
9 Hungry 4:10
10 People Who Have Great Lives 2:26

What to play next

Listen next

Here's the World for Ya

1985

Go back to

No Stranger to Danger

1982

Full Payolas discography Artists like Payolas

alternative rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata