Paradox cover

Paradox

Steppenwolf · 1984

38 min · 10 tracks · hard rock

A blend of hard rock and poignant ballads, exploring themes of change and resilience through gritty guitar riffs and heartfelt vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Nothin’ Is Forever — This track captures the essence of the album with its reflective lyrics on impermanence, paired with a powerful melody that showcases Kay's vocal prowess.
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    Ain’t Nothing Like It Used to Be — The song evokes nostalgia while addressing change, blending emotional depth with an infectious groove that highlights the band's signature sound.
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    Only the Strong Survive — With a driving rhythm and inspiring message, this track stands out as an anthem of perseverance, embodying the spirit of resilience present throughout the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo listening experience
  • themes of resilience and change
  • engaging narratives throughout tracks
  • reflective moments with emotional depth

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer high-energy instant gratification
  • seek experimental or unpredictable sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1984, Paradox marked Steppenwolf's return after a hiatus, showcasing a matured sound reflective of the band's evolution. This album came six years after their last studio effort, with John Kay leading the group through a period of significant changes in rock music.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Watch Your Innocence 3:15
  • 2 Nothin’ Is Forever 3:37
  • 3 You’re the Only One 5:10
  • 4 The Fixer 2:52
  • 5 Give Me News I Can Use 3:46
  • 6 Only the Strong Survive 3:35
  • 7 Ain’t Nothing Like It Used to Be 3:52
  • 8 Slender Thread of Hope 4:47
  • 9 Tell Me It’s Allright 3:42
  • 10 Circles of Confusion 3:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata