Slow Flux cover

Slow Flux

Steppenwolf · 1974

45 min · 10 tracks · hard rock

A fusion of hard rock and blues, marked by gritty vocals and reflective lyrics amidst a backdrop of heavy instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Get Into the Wind — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its blend of philosophical lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, capturing the essence of Steppenwolf's sound evolution.
  • →
    Gang War Blues — With its gritty narrative about urban strife, this song reflects the band's engagement with contemporary social issues, making it a standout moment on the album.
  • →
    Smokey Factory Blues — This track showcases a bluesy groove and rich storytelling, highlighting Steppenwolf's roots while demonstrating their ability to adapt to the changing musical climate.
  • →
    Straight Shootin’ Woman — Featuring catchy hooks and a powerful vocal delivery, this song exemplifies the hard rock edge that characterized much of Steppenwolf's work during this period.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • gritty storytelling with attitude
  • reflective moments of rebellion
  • for road trip vibes

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced excitement
  • seek polished production

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Slow Flux' was released in January 1974, Steppenwolf was navigating a transitional phase following their mainstream successes with hits like 'Born to Be Wild'. The album arrived after their commercial peak, showcasing a more mature sound that incorporated elements of blues rock and psychedelia while addressing socio-political themes in its lyrics.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Justice Don’t Be Slow

    The chorus repeatedly emphasizes an urgent plea for justice amidst an atmosphere of rising tension and frustration.

    The repetitive nature of the chorus not only reinforces the urgency of the message but also serves as a critique of societal complacency regarding social justice.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Get Into the Wind 3:01
  • 2 Gang War Blues 4:25
  • 3 Justice Don’t Be Slow 4:55
  • 4 Children of Night 5:13
  • 5 Jeraboah 5:40
  • 6 Straight Shootin’ Woman 4:06
  • 7 Smokey Factory Blues 4:11
  • 8 Morning Blue 4:13
  • 9 A Fool’s Fantasy 3:39
  • 10 Fishin’ in the Dark 5:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata