Is Hand of Kindness a good place to start with Richard Thompson?

Yes, Hand of Kindness is recommended as a starting point for new Richard Thompson listeners. A blend of folk-rock storytelling and intricate melodies, reflecting both personal introspection and wider social themes. Released in 1983, Hand of Kindness was Richard Thompson's first solo album after leaving Fairport Convention, marking a significant transition in his career. This album showcased his distinctive songwriting and guitar prowess, solidifying his reputation as a solo artist following years with the influential British folk-rock band.

Who is Hand of Kindness for?

Hand of Kindness works well if you're into steady pacing for reflective moments, introspective lyrics for deep thinking and consistent narrative flow throughout.

How many songs are on Hand of Kindness?

Hand of Kindness has 9 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Hand of Kindness

Richard Thompson · 1983

41 min · 9 tracks · rock music

A blend of folk-rock storytelling and intricate melodies, reflecting both personal introspection and wider social themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Tear Stained Letter Start here — This opening track captures the album's emotional core, blending yearning lyrics with a haunting melody that sets the tone for the listener's journey through loss and reflection.
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Hand of Kindness — The title track encapsulates Thompson's thematic exploration of vulnerability and compassion, showcasing his lyrical dexterity against a backdrop of rich instrumentation.
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Both Ends Burning — This song stands out for its upbeat tempo contrasted with poignant lyrics about longing and regret, illustrating Thompson's ability to blend lighthearted melodies with deeper emotional themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and craftsmanship, with varied tempos and narrative depth.

What we noticed

Several songs incorporate narrative lyrics that reflect personal experiences and broader social themes, often shifting perspectives.
The tempo varies significantly across tracks, with some maintaining a steady pace while others introduce shifts that enhance emotional impact.

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: 7/10
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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing for reflective moments
introspective lyrics for deep thinking
consistent narrative flow throughout
suitable for quiet afternoons

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy stimulation
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — First solo album post-Fairport Convention, establishing his solo career.
Themes: personal loss· British folk tradition
Career context: Released in 1983, Hand of Kindness was Richard Thompson's first solo album after leaving Fairport Convention, marking a significant transition in his career. This album showcased his distinctive songwriting and guitar prowess, solidifying his reputation as a solo artist following years with the influential British folk-rock band.
Stylistic neighbors: Nick Lowe· John Hiatt· Elvis Costello