Raw cover

Raw

The Alarm · 1991

44 min · 10 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of alternative rock anthems infused with introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Raw Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Rockin' in the Free World — This cover of Neil Young's classic transforms the original's raw energy into a rallying cry against social injustice, showcasing The Alarm's commitment to political themes.
  • →
    God Save Somebody — The song features anthemic choruses and poignant lyrics that reflect on community and responsibility, embodying the band's ethos of social consciousness.
  • →
    Moments in Time — With its reflective tone and rich instrumentation, this track captures a sense of nostalgia while exploring themes of memory and loss, making it a standout moment on the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • uplifting anthems for group sing-alongs
  • reflective moments during quiet drives
  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • cathartic energy release at full

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced, instant gratification
  • want experimental or avant-garde sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A solid entry in the catalog but not widely recognized as a standout.
Career context
Released in 1991, Raw was The Alarm's fifth studio album and marked a transition as they sought to redefine their sound after a series of less commercially successful releases. This album followed the band's previous effort, Change, which had not achieved the same chart success as their earlier records. By this time, they were experimenting with a more polished production style while retaining their core message-driven approach.
Stylistic neighbors
U2· The Cult· Simple Minds

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • God Save Somebody

    The verses build towards a chorus that directly addresses the listener's role in effecting change within society.

    By shifting from personal narrative to a collective call to action, the song emphasizes communal responsibility rather than individual struggle.

Tracklist

  • 1 Raw Start here 4:29
  • 2 Rockin' in the Free World 3:59
  • 3 God Save Somebody 4:09
  • 4 Moments in Time 5:42
  • 5 Hell or High Water 3:47
  • 6 Lead Me Through the Darkness 4:34
  • 7 The Wind Blows Away My Words 4:32
  • 8 Let the River Run Its Course 3:53
  • 9 Save Your Crying 4:38
  • 10 Wonderful World 5:00

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata