What makes Sitting Targets by Peter Hammill notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and lyrical depth, further solidifying Hammill's reputation as a key figure in the art rock genre. It includes notable tracks that have influenced subsequent artists within the progressive rock community, contributing to a resurgence of interest in his work during the early '80s. Sitting Targets marks Peter Hammill's seventh solo studio album, following his 1977 release, The Future Now. By this point in his career, Hammill had established himself as a pioneering figure in progressive rock, known for his distinctive voice and poetic songwriting. This album continues to showcase his evolution as an artist, blending personal themes with ambitious musical arrangements.

Who is Sitting Targets for?

Sitting Targets works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, introspective lyrical exploration and gradual builds and payoffs.

How many songs are on Sitting Targets?

Sitting Targets has 11 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Sitting Targets

Peter Hammill · 1981

44 min · 11 tracks · rock music

A complex interplay of introspective lyrics and experimental rock, weaving emotional depth with intricate melodies.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Breakthrough — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its driving rhythm and introspective lyrics, encapsulating Hammill's artistic vision.
→
Ophelia — This song features haunting melodies and vivid storytelling, showcasing Hammill's ability to blend narrative with emotive music.
→
Sitting Targets — The title track offers a reflective exploration of personal vulnerability, highlighted by its lyrical complexity and dynamic instrumentation.
→
Empress’s Clothes — With sharp social commentary and intricate musical layers, this track exemplifies Hammill's knack for merging satire with poignant songwriting.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100

Foothills

Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate songwriting and varied vocal styles, though its cohesion suffers slightly from its ambitious structure.

What we noticed

Hammill's vocal delivery varies significantly throughout, often employing a theatrical style that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Several songs incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt changes in tempo and key, which challenge traditional rock formats.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
introspective lyrical exploration
gradual builds and payoffs
long, immersive listening sessions

Where this album fits

Career context: Sitting Targets marks Peter Hammill's seventh solo studio album, following his 1977 release, The Future Now. By this point in his career, Hammill had established himself as a pioneering figure in progressive rock, known for his distinctive voice and poetic songwriting. This album continues to showcase his evolution as an artist, blending personal themes with ambitious musical arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: Van der Graaf Generator· Robert Wyatt· King Crimson