Time Loves a Hero cover

Time Loves a Hero

Little Feat · 1977

35 min · 9 tracks · country music

A vibrant blend of Southern rock and blues, infused with playful lyrics and intricate musicianship that captures the essence of 1970s Americana.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hi Roller Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Time Loves a Hero — This track encapsulates the album's theme of carefree living through its catchy chorus and upbeat instrumentation, showcasing the band's signature blend of rock and funk.
  • →
    Old Folks Boogie — With its humorous take on aging and nostalgia, this song stands out for its infectious groove and clever lyrics that resonate with listeners across generations.
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    Rocket in My Pocket — The driving rhythm and playful lyrics make this track a quintessential representation of Little Feat's ability to merge humor with musical sophistication.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album features strong musicianship and playful lyrics but lacks a fully cohesive flow.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track, 'Hi Roller', and maintains a lively tempo through the first half before slowing down in the latter part.
  • The lyrics often employ playful storytelling, with songs like 'Day at the Dog Races' and 'Keepin’ Up With the Joneses' using humor and vivid imagery.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • playful lyrics for sing-alongs
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • lighthearted vibes for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slow, introspective music
  • seek deep emotional narratives

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Showcases the band's eclectic sound and musicianship, often seen as a high point.
Themes
1970s Americana· nostalgic humor
Career context
Released in January 1977, Time Loves a Hero marked Little Feat's fifth studio album, following their critically acclaimed release, Feats Don't Fail Me Now. The album arrived during a transitional period for the band, as they were navigating the complexities of fame and evolving musical styles while maintaining their core identity.
Stylistic neighbors
The Band· Widespread Panic· Gov't Mule

Tracklist

  • 1 Hi Roller Start here 3:36
  • 2 Time Loves a Hero 3:48
  • 3 Rocket in My Pocket 3:24
  • 4 Day at the Dog Races 6:30
  • 5 Old Folks Boogie 3:32
  • 6 Red Streamliner 4:47
  • 7 New Delhi Freight Train 3:44
  • 8 Keepin’ Up With the Joneses 3:47
  • 9 Missin’ You 2:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata