What makes Roadmaster by Gene Clark notable?

Roadmaster is noted for its critical reception despite limited commercial success, with many fans and critics recognizing it as a hidden gem in Clark's discography. Its introspective songwriting and unique blend of genres have influenced subsequent artists in the Americana and folk rock scenes. Released in January 1973, Roadmaster marked Gene Clark's return to the spotlight after a series of solo albums that struggled commercially. This was his first album in three years, showcasing a mature sound that drew from his earlier work with The Byrds while also exploring new lyrical themes and arrangements.

How many songs are on Roadmaster?

Roadmaster has 11 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Roadmaster

Gene Clark · 1973

40 min · 11 tracks · country music

A reflective blend of folk rock and country, weaving personal narratives with lush melodies and rich instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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One in a Hundred — This track epitomizes the album's introspective nature, featuring poignant lyrics that explore themes of uncertainty and yearning, underscored by an evocative melody.
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Roadmaster — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, combining vivid storytelling with a haunting arrangement that reflects Clark's mastery of blending personal narrative with universal themes.
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I Really Don’t Want to Know — With its melancholic tone and heartfelt delivery, this cover stands out as a testament to Clark's ability to reinterpret classic songs through his unique lens.

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 features strong songwriting and instrumentation but lacks broader recognition.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo rhythm, while the fourth track introduces a slower pace with a more reflective tone.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually decrease in tempo, creating a sense of resolution and introspection.

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

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.

Tracklist

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

1 She’s the Kind of Girl 3:01
2 One in a Hundred 2:47
3 Here Tonight 3:32
4 Full Circle Song 2:45
5 In a Misty Morning 4:59
6 Rough and Rocky 3:17
7 Roadmaster 4:13
8 I Really Don’t Want to Know 4:39
9 I Remember the Railroad 2:33
10 She Don’t Care About Time 3:39
11 Shooting Star 4:38

What to play next

Listen next

No Other

1974

Go back to

White Light

1971

Full Gene Clark discography Artists like Gene Clark

folk rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata