Only the Wild Survive cover

Only the Wild Survive

Wild Cherry · 1979

38 min · 9 tracks · funk rock

A vibrant fusion of funk rock grooves and catchy melodies that invites listeners to dance and celebrate life.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Try a Piece of My Love — This track opens the album with infectious energy, showcasing Wild Cherry's signature blend of funk rhythms and soulful vocals that set the tone for the rest of the record.
  • →
    Look at Her Dance — With its catchy chorus and vibrant instrumentation, this song encapsulates the celebratory spirit of the album, making it a standout track for live performances.
  • →
    Keep on Playin' That Funky Music — As the group's most recognizable hit, this track's irresistible groove and memorable hook exemplify the band's ability to create music that resonates across generations.

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 funk rock elements but lacks the depth for lasting engagement.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a mid-tempo track that sets a groove, followed by several upbeat songs that maintain a danceable energy.
  • Each song features prominent brass sections and rhythmic guitar riffs, creating a consistent funk rock sound throughout.
  • The final track is a reworking of their hit single, which serves as both a climax and a nostalgic callback to their earlier success.
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
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Don't Wait Too Long

    The bridge uniquely shifts perspective from advice to personal reflection, urging listeners to seize moments before they slip away.

    This lyrical pivot creates an intimate connection, transitioning from general advice into a more personal plea that enhances the song's urgency.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Try a Piece of My Love 4:28
  • 2 Look at Her Dance 4:40
  • 3 Don't Wait Too Long 5:50
  • 4 Starlight 4:25
  • 5 Hold on to Your Hiney 4:15
  • 6 All Night's All Right 3:50
  • 7 Raindance 3:26
  • 8 Take Me Back 4:10
  • 9 Keep on Playin' That Funky Music 3:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata