Released 20 years ago
Hit by a Train: The Best of Old 97's
Old 97's · 2006
64 min · 18 tracks · alternative country
A vibrant collection of alt-country anthems infused with wit, heartache, and infectious energy.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Doreen — This track encapsulates Old 97's signature storytelling style, blending humor and melancholy in a tale of unrequited love that resonates deeply.
-
→
Timebomb — A fan favorite that exemplifies the band's energetic sound and lyrical wit, it showcases their ability to craft catchy hooks with emotional depth.
-
→
El Paso — A standout narrative piece that highlights the band's lyrical prowess, weaving a vivid story that captures the essence of longing and regret.
-
→
King of All the World — This track features an uplifting melody paired with introspective lyrics, reflecting a sense of triumph amidst vulnerability that defines much of their work.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
- witty storytelling with heart
- for road trips
- engaging tracks for gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced instant gratification
- seek experimental or avant-garde sounds
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2006, this compilation captures Old 97's journey through the late '90s and early 2000s, following their breakthrough album 'Too Far to Care' (1997). At this point, the band had established themselves as key figures in the alternative country scene, balancing mainstream appeal with critical acclaim.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Whiskeytown· The Jayhawks· Son Volt
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
Doreen
The protagonist confronts his feelings directly, revealing a mix of admiration and frustration towards Doreen's choices.
This shift to direct address intensifies the emotional stakes and highlights the narrator's vulnerability.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Stoned 4:00
- 2 Cryin’ Drunk 3:15
- 3 Doreen 3:43
- 4 Victoria 3:51
- 5 Timebomb 3:08
- 6 Niteclub 3:50
- 7 Four Leaf Clover 3:21
- 8 El Paso 4:59
- 9 Jagged 3:27
- 10 Lonely Holiday 4:08
- 11 Murder (or a Heart Attack) 3:41
- 12 Valentine 3:09
- 13 The Villain 3:24
- 14 King of All the World 2:51
- 15 Question 2:15
- 16 Rollerskate Skinny 3:50
- 17 Barrier Reef (live) 3:47
- 18 Nineteen (live) 3:27
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.