The Unknown Soldier cover

The Unknown Soldier

Roy Harper · 1980

42 min · 10 tracks · traditional folk music

An introspective blend of folk melodies and poignant storytelling, reflecting on love, loss, and the passage of time.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • introspective reflections on love
  • poignant storytelling through melodies
  • short tracks for quick listening
  • evocative themes of time passing

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking high-energy party tracks
  • prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1980, 'The Unknown Soldier' marked Roy Harper's return after a four-year hiatus following his previous album 'HQ'. This period saw him exploring more political themes and personal narratives, as he was transitioning from a cult artist to broader recognition within the UK folk scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Nick Drake· John Martyn· Leonard Cohen

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Playing Games 3:12
  • 2 I'm in Love With You 3:45
  • 3 The Fly Catcher 4:10
  • 4 You (The Game, Part II) 4:37
  • 5 Old Faces 4:09
  • 6 Short and Sweet 6:28
  • 7 First Thing in the Morning 3:40
  • 8 The Unknown Soldier 3:34
  • 9 Ten Years Ago 3:35
  • 10 True Story 4:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata