What makes Knock 'Em Dead Kid by Trooper notable?

The album features the hit single 'We're Here for a Good Time (Not a Long Time)', which became a classic anthem in Canada, securing Trooper's place in the national music landscape. Its commercial success helped solidify the band's popularity and influence during a pivotal moment for Canadian rock music. Released on June 8, 1977, 'Knock 'Em Dead Kid' was Trooper's second studio album, following their self-titled debut in 1975. At this point, the band was gaining traction in Canada, establishing their signature sound that would become synonymous with Canadian rock music in the late 1970s.

How many songs are on Knock 'Em Dead Kid?

Knock 'Em Dead Kid has 8 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Knock 'Em Dead Kid

Trooper · 1977

34 min · 8 tracks · rock music

A vibrant blend of rock and pop, marked by catchy hooks and anthemic choruses that invite sing-alongs.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Knock ’em Dead Kid — The title track encapsulates the album's energetic spirit with its infectious chorus and driving rhythm, setting the tone for what follows.
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We're Here for a Good Time (Not a long Time) — This song stands out as an enduring classic that captures the carefree ethos of the era, inviting listeners to embrace life's fleeting moments.
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Cold, Cold Toronto — With its reflective lyrics and melodic structure, this track showcases Trooper's ability to blend storytelling with catchy melodies, highlighting their lyrical depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid songwriting and production but remains within familiar rock templates.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat tempo that carries through to the fifth.
The album features layered vocal harmonies throughout, particularly in the choruses, which enhance the sing-along quality of the tracks.
Several songs incorporate prominent guitar riffs that serve as hooks, with 'We're Here for a Good Time' featuring a particularly anthemic chorus.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

We're Here for a Good Time (Not a long Time)

The bridge shifts from upbeat celebration to contemplative reflection on life’s impermanence.

This transition adds emotional weight to the otherwise lighthearted theme, reminding listeners to cherish their experiences.

Tracklist

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

1 Knock ’em Dead Kid 4:46
2 Waitin’ on Your Love 4:22
3 Most of the Country 3:36
4 You Look So Good 4:52
5 We’re Here for a Good Time (Not a long Time) 3:34
6 Oh, Pretty Lady 4:36
7 Cold, Cold Toronto 3:27
8 (It’s Been a) Long Time 5:06

What to play next

Listen next

Thick as Thieves

1978

Go back to

Two for the Show

1976

Full Trooper discography Artists like Trooper

rock music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata