The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking cover

The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking

Roger Waters · 1984

42 min · 12 tracks · opera · progressive rock · psychedelic rock

A surreal journey through fragmented narratives and haunting melodies that reflect on personal and societal disillusionment.

Why this album works

This album reached No. 31 on the US Billboard 200 and was notable for its conceptual structure, which drew comparisons to the narrative style of Pink Floyd's previous works. Despite mixed critical reception, it showcased Waters' continuing evolution as a songwriter and thematic storyteller, influencing subsequent artists in the progressive rock genre.
Best for
surreal narratives that unfold gradually wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts reflective moments for deep thinking
Context
Released in 1984, 'The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking' was Roger Waters' first solo album after leaving Pink Floyd. Following the monumental success of 'The Wall', this project marked his attempt to carve out a distinct identity, blending autobiographical elements with broader themes of alienation.
Stylistic neighbors
Pink Floyd· David Gilmour· Captain Beefheart

Tracklist

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

  • 1 4:30 (Apparently They Were Traveling Abroad) 3:12
  • 2 4:33 (Running Shoes) 4:08
  • 3 4:37 (Arabs with Knives and West German Skies) 2:17
  • 4 4:39 (For the First Time Today - Part 2) 2:02
  • 5 4:41 (Sexual Revolution) 4:49
  • 6 4:47 (The Remains of Our Love) 3:09
  • 7 4:50 (Go Fishing) 6:59
  • 8 4:56 (For the First Time Today - Part 1) 1:38
  • 9 4:58 (Dunroamin, Duncarin, Dunlivin) 3:03
  • 10 5:01 (The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking - Part 10) 4:36
  • 11 5:06 (Every Strangers Eyes) 4:48
  • 12 5:11 (The Moment of Clarity) 1:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata