Is Henry the Human Fly a good place to start with Richard Thompson?

Yes, Henry the Human Fly is recommended as a starting point for new Richard Thompson listeners. An eclectic blend of folk-rock and whimsical storytelling, infused with Thompson's intricate guitar work and distinctive vocals. Released in 1972, 'Henry the Human Fly' was Richard Thompson's debut solo album following his departure from the influential band Fairport Convention. This album marked a significant transition for Thompson, showcasing his unique songwriting style and exceptional guitar skills as he navigated his new identity in the music scene.

Who is Henry the Human Fly for?

Henry the Human Fly works well if you're into whimsical storytelling with charm, steady mid-tempo flow throughout and for reflective afternoon.

How many songs are on Henry the Human Fly?

Henry the Human Fly has 12 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Henry the Human Fly

Richard Thompson · 1972

37 min · 12 tracks · rock music

An eclectic blend of folk-rock and whimsical storytelling, infused with Thompson's intricate guitar work and distinctive vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Poor Ditching Boy — This track exemplifies Thompson's ability to weave narrative storytelling with traditional folk elements, highlighting his lyrical prowess and emotional resonance.
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The Angels Took My Racehorse Away — A poignant reflection on loss and longing, this track showcases Thompson’s knack for combining humor with melancholy, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Roll Over Vaughn Williams Start here — Opening the album, this track sets the tone with its clever wordplay and lively instrumentation, encapsulating the playful yet introspective spirit of the record.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases unique songwriting and guitar work but lacks a fully cohesive flow across its tracks.

What we noticed

Tracks like 'Roll Over Vaughn Williams' open with a strong melodic hook that is revisited throughout, while others, such as 'The Poor Ditching Boy', incorporate shifts in tempo and mood.

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

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

whimsical storytelling with charm
steady mid-tempo flow throughout
for reflective afternoon
engaging narratives for curious minds

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy instant gratification
seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Thompson's reputation as a solo artist post-Fairport Convention.
Themes: whimsical storytelling· poignant loss· British folk traditions
Career context: Released in 1972, 'Henry the Human Fly' was Richard Thompson's debut solo album following his departure from the influential band Fairport Convention. This album marked a significant transition for Thompson, showcasing his unique songwriting style and exceptional guitar skills as he navigated his new identity in the music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Nick Lowe· John Hiatt· Elvis Costello