What makes The Roadside by Billy Idol notable?

The Roadside debuted at number 15 on the Billboard 200 chart, illustrating Idol's continued relevance in the music industry. Critics praised the EP for its mature themes and production quality, highlighting how it bridges classic rock sensibilities with contemporary influences. In 2021, Billy Idol released The Roadside as his first EP in over a decade, marking a return to music after a lengthy hiatus. This release followed his 2014 album, Kings & Queens of the Underground, and showcased his enduring influence in the rock genre, reflecting both personal and artistic evolution.

How many songs are on The Roadside?

The Roadside has 4 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

The Roadside

Billy Idol · 2021

15 min · 4 tracks · hard rock

A gritty blend of rock and pop that channels nostalgia while exploring themes of love and loss.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Bitter Taste — This track serves as a poignant reflection on loss and regret, resonating with listeners through its heartfelt lyrics and catchy chorus. Its emotional depth stands out against the backdrop of a dance-rock sound.
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U Don’t Have to Kiss Me Like That — With its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, this song captures Idol's signature style while exploring themes of romance in a lighthearted manner. Its upbeat energy makes it a standout moment on the EP.
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Rita Hayworth — This opening track introduces the EP with a nostalgic nod to Hollywood glamour, blending storytelling with a rock edge that sets the tone for the rest of the album. It's an evocative homage that engages fans from the start.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid songwriting and production but doesn't break new ground in its genre.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a prominent guitar riff that sets a gritty tone, while the second track shifts to a more melodic chorus.
Each song features layered vocal harmonies, with Idol's voice often accompanied by backing vocals that enhance the emotional weight.
The EP maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, with only slight variations in energy across the four tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks Idol's return after a long hiatus, showing continued relevance and maturity.
Themes: Hollywood nostalgia· mortality reflection· punk-infused storytelling
Career context: In 2021, Billy Idol released The Roadside as his first EP in over a decade, marking a return to music after a lengthy hiatus. This release followed his 2014 album, Kings & Queens of the Underground, and showcased his enduring influence in the rock genre, reflecting both personal and artistic evolution.
Stylistic neighbors: David Bowie· The Cult· Duran Duran