It's Hard cover

It's Hard

The Who · 1982

70 min · 16 tracks · hard rock · progressive rock · R&B

A blend of polished rock anthems and introspective ballads that reflect the band's evolving artistry.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • reflective late-night listening
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • thoughtful introspection moments

Where this album fits

Themes
post-Moon transition· social commentary· personal love stories
Career context
Released on September 4, 1982, 'It's Hard' was The Who's first studio album in over three years, marking a transition for the band after the death of drummer Keith Moon. With diminished commercial success compared to their earlier work, this album showcased the surviving members' struggle to adapt to a changing music landscape while still trying to maintain their distinctive sound.
Stylistic neighbors
The Kinks· Led Zeppelin· The Rolling Stones
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) by David Bowie — Explores personal and societal themes with a polished blend of rock and introspective moments.
Abacab by Genesis — Features a mix of anthemic rock and reflective ballads, mirroring the transition era for bands.
Ghost in the Machine by The Police — Combines social commentary with melodic rock, showcasing emotional depth and polished production.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Athena 3:47
  • 2 It’s Your Turn 3:40
  • 3 Cooks County 3:52
  • 4 It’s Hard 3:50
  • 5 Dangerous 3:34
  • 6 Eminence Front 5:39
  • 7 I’ve Known No War 5:56
  • 8 One Life’s Enough 2:21
  • 9 One at a Time 3:18
  • 10 Why Did I Fall for That 3:56
  • 11 A Man Is a Man 3:55
  • 12 Cry If You Want 5:23
  • 13 It’s Hard (live) 4:56
  • 14 Eminence Front (live) 5:43
  • 15 Dangerous (live) 3:48
  • 16 Cry If You Want (live) 7:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata