Ian Hunter cover

Ian Hunter

Ian Hunter · 1975

40 min · 8 tracks · rock music

A gritty blend of rock anthems and introspective ballads infused with Hunter's signature raspy vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Once Bitten Twice Shy — This track stands out as a defining anthem with its catchy chorus and narrative about love lost and learned lessons that helped shape Hunter's solo career.
  • →
    Lounge Lizard — The song encapsulates Hunter's sharp wit and storytelling prowess, presenting a vivid character sketch against a backdrop of compelling rock instrumentation.
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    The Truth, the Whole Truth, Nuthin’ but the Truth — This track showcases Hunter's lyrical depth, blending poignant social commentary with a driving rock rhythm that captures the essence of the era.

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 a blend of rock anthems and ballads, with solid craftsmanship and a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks feature prominent piano arrangements that complement the gritty guitar work, particularly in 'Lounge Lizard' and 'It Ain’t Easy When You Fall'.
  • The final track, 'I Get So Excited', shifts the energy back to an upbeat tempo, creating a sense of closure after the more reflective pieces.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • gritty anthems for sing-alongs
  • introspective moments for reflection
  • short tracks for quick listens
  • early evening drive energy

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking fast-paced instant gratification
  • prefer single hits over albums

Where this album fits

Career context
Ian Hunter was released as the debut solo album from the frontman of Mott the Hoople after the band's breakup in 1974. This marked a pivotal transition for Hunter, showcasing his ability to craft a distinct identity outside the band that had brought him fame. The album followed his previous work with Mott the Hoople, solidifying his place in rock music during the mid-1970s.
Stylistic neighbors
Mott the Hoople· David Bowie· Rod Stewart

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Once Bitten Twice Shy 4:44
  • 2 Who Do You Love 3:51
  • 3 Lounge Lizard 4:32
  • 4 Boy 8:52
  • 5 3,000 Miles From Here 2:48
  • 6 The Truth, the Whole Truth, Nuthin’ but the Truth 6:11
  • 7 It Ain’t Easy When You Fall / Shades Off 5:46
  • 8 I Get So Excited 3:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata