Rant cover

Rant

Ian Hunter · 2001

56 min · 12 tracks · rock music

A raw and defiant blend of rock anthems and poignant ballads addressing contemporary societal issues.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Death of a Nation — This track stands out for its sharp critique of societal decay, combining Hunter's signature storytelling with a catchy yet haunting melody that echoes throughout the album.
  • →
    American Spy — Hunter channels a mix of sarcasm and urgency in this song, reflecting on themes of surveillance and distrust that feel prescient in today's world.
  • →
    Still Love Rock and Roll — This closing track serves as both a celebration and a reflection on the genre itself, encapsulating Hunter's enduring passion for rock music amidst changing times.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album balances energetic anthems with reflective ballads, showcasing Hunter's lyrical depth and musical versatility.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features high-energy rock anthems, while the second half shifts to more introspective ballads, creating a dynamic contrast.
  • Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements, blending narrative with musical sections to enhance the lyrical themes.
  • The title track is positioned as the penultimate song, allowing it to serve as a climactic commentary before the reflective closing track.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

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 rebellious spirits
  • sharp social commentary reflections
  • late-night discussions with friends
  • cathartic release of frustrations
  • thought-provoking moments of introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer polished mainstream sounds
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2001, Ian Hunter was returning to form after a semi-retirement in the late 1990s, marking this as his first studio album since 1996's 'Artful Dodger'. 'Rant' showcases his resilience and relevance in rock music, bridging his legacy with modern concerns.
Stylistic neighbors
Mott the Hoople· David Bowie· Rod Stewart

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Ripoff 4:51
  • 2 Good Samaritan 4:06
  • 3 Death of a Nation 5:35
  • 4 Purgatory 4:46
  • 5 American Spy 4:30
  • 6 Dead Man Walkin’ (East Enders) 6:20
  • 7 Wash Us Away 3:56
  • 8 Morons 5:33
  • 9 Soap ’n’ Water 5:18
  • 10 Knees of My Heart 3:35
  • 11 No One 3:36
  • 12 Still Love Rock and Roll 4:34

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata