About this album
Where they were
Released in 1967, 'A Hard Road' was John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers' third studio album and marked a transitional phase after the departure of Eric Clapton. At this point, Mayall was solidifying his role as a key figure in British blues, having previously released the acclaimed 'Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton'. This album features new guitarist Peter Green, who would go on to influence the genre significantly.
Why it matters
'A Hard Road' is significant for its critical reception, with tracks like 'The Stumble' and 'You Don’t Love Me' receiving praise for their innovative sound. The album helped propel the band into the forefront of the British blues movement, influencing contemporaries and future musicians alike. It showcased Mayall's ability to adapt and evolve following lineup changes, solidifying his legacy within the genre.
Essential tracks
- "The Stumble" — This track features a captivating instrumental interplay that highlights Peter Green's exceptional guitar work, making it a standout example of the band's musical prowess.
- "You Don’t Love Me" — This cover showcases the band's ability to reinterpret classic blues with fresh energy, while also spotlighting Mayall's emotive vocal delivery.
- "A Hard Road" — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of struggle and resilience, driven by powerful instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics that resonate deeply.
Release Date
January 1, 1967
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 A Hard Road 3:13
- 2 It’s Over 2:51
- 3 You Don’t Love Me 2:50
- 4 The Stumble 2:54
- 5 Another Kinda Love 3:06
- 6 Hit the Highway 2:17
- 7 Leaping Christine 2:23
- 8 Dust My Blues 2:51
- 9 There’s Always Work 1:37
- 10 The Same Way 2:11
- 11 The Super‐Natural 2:57
- 12 Top of the Hill 2:40
- 13 Someday After a While (You’ll Be Sorry) 3:01
- 14 Living Alone 2:25
