Tim Hardin 3 Live in Concert cover

Tim Hardin 3 Live in Concert

Tim Hardin

49 min · 12 tracks · traditional folk music

An intimate collection of folk ballads that blend vulnerability with a raw, emotive delivery from Hardin's soulful voice.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    If I Were a Carpenter — This track stands out as it captures Hardin's poignant storytelling and has become one of his most recognized songs, resonating well beyond his own performances.
  • →
    Reason to Believe — The haunting quality of this song exemplifies Hardin's ability to convey complex emotions through simple yet profound lyrics, making it a highlight of the concert.
  • →
    Black Sheep Boy — This track showcases Hardin's unique vocal style and lyrical introspection, embodying themes of alienation that pervade much of his work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album showcases Hardin's emotive songwriting and vocal delivery, though its live nature affects overall cohesion.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of acoustic guitar and piano, with Hardin's voice prominently leading each track.
  • Several tracks include extended instrumental sections that allow for improvisation, particularly in the transitions between verses.
  • The pacing varies significantly, with some songs maintaining a slow tempo while others build to a more intense emotional delivery.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • intimate storytelling in live setting
  • wave-like pacing with emotional peaks
  • candid reflections on life experiences
  • for quiet evening listening

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, high-energy music
  • seek polished studio productions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1973, Tim Hardin 3 Live in Concert marked Hardin's return to the stage after a series of personal struggles and health issues. This live album came after his acclaimed earlier works and served as a reflection of his artistry during a turbulent period, showcasing his ability to connect deeply with audiences through live performance.
Stylistic neighbors
Nick Drake· Leonard Cohen· John Martyn

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Lady Came From Baltimore 2:42
  • 2 Reason to Believe 2:41
  • 3 You Upset the Grace of Living When You Lie 4:28
  • 4 Misty Roses 4:48
  • 5 Black Sheep Boy 2:14
  • 6 Lenny’s Tune 7:03
  • 7 Don’t Make Promises 4:11
  • 8 Danville Dame 6:30
  • 9 If I Were a Carpenter 3:41
  • 10 Red Balloon 3:33
  • 11 Tribute to Hank Williams 4:04
  • 12 Smugglin’ Man 3:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata