What makes Hobo with a Grin by Steve Harley notable?

Hobo with a Grin received notable acclaim for its innovative sound and lyrical depth, particularly in the UK where it reached the Top 30 on the charts. The album's exploration of contemporary issues and personal reflection resonated with audiences, showcasing Harley’s evolution as an artist during a vibrant era of British music. Released as Steve Harley's fourth studio album, Hobo with a Grin followed the commercial success of his earlier work with Cockney Rebel. At this point in his career, Harley was solidifying his solo identity and exploring more personal themes in his songwriting after the band's peak popularity in the mid-1970s.

Who is Hobo with a Grin for?

Hobo with a Grin works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, reflective storytelling for introspective moments and ear-catching melodies for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Hobo with a Grin?

Hobo with a Grin has 11 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

Hobo with a Grin

Steve Harley · 1978

46 min · 11 tracks · pop rock

A vibrant blend of glam rock and pop, laced with theatrical flair and introspective lyrics that invite listeners into a vivid storytelling experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Roll the Dice — The opening track sets an energetic tone with its driving rhythm and catchy chorus, establishing Harley’s playful yet introspective lyrical style.
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(I Don't Believe) God Is an Anarchist — This standout track features complex arrangements and thought-provoking lyrics that challenge societal norms, making it a bold statement piece on the album.
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Living in a Rhapsody — With its lush instrumentation and poetic lyrics, this song exemplifies Harley's knack for blending melodrama with relatable themes of love and longing.
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Riding the Waves (For Virginia Woolf) — This homage to Virginia Woolf showcases Harley's literary influences, combining sweeping melodies with contemplative lyrics that reflect on creativity and existence.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
reflective storytelling for introspective moments
ear-catching melodies for sing-alongs
engaging rhythms for thoughtful listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, instant gratification
avoid extended lyrical explorations

Where this album fits

Career context: Released as Steve Harley's fourth studio album, Hobo with a Grin followed the commercial success of his earlier work with Cockney Rebel. At this point in his career, Harley was solidifying his solo identity and exploring more personal themes in his songwriting after the band's peak popularity in the mid-1970s.
Stylistic neighbors: 10cc· David Bowie· Roxy Music

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Tracklist

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

1 Roll the Dice 3:31
2 Amerika the Brave 4:56
3 Living in a Rhapsody 4:22
4 I Wish It Would Rain 3:20
5 Riding the Waves (For Virginia Woolf) 4:34
6 Someone's Coming 4:36
7 Hot Youth 2:52
8 (I Don't Believe) God Is an Anarchist 7:24
9 Faith, Hope and Charity 4:01
10 Spaced Out 3:01
11 That's My Life in Your Hands (live) 3:39

What to play next

Listen next

The Candidate

1979

Go back to

Big Big Deal

1974

Full Steve Harley discography Where to start with Steve Harley Artists like Steve Harley

glam rock pop rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata