Atlantic, LP & CD, 1989
The first cut, “I won’t Run Anymore,” opens with the discordant pealing of church bells in the distance, they fade out and an organ rolls in, then comes the serious entry of electric guitars, Townshend’s vocals, and a chorus urging, “Don’t be afraid of the night.”
The Iron Man was first a children’s science fiction book written by English Poet Laureate Ted Hughes. Pete Townshend was taken by the story and decided to write a musical around it, which was released as his sixth solo studio album. He enlisted an interesting and rather impressive supporting cast for the album, including blues man John Lee Hooker and jazz-blues-folk-gospel singer Nina Simone. And, oh yeah, Pete’s band, the Who, did two of the 12 songs on the record.
While the album is built on the framework of Hughes’ book, that fact is easy to ignore on a casual listen. It could easily be a stand-alone solo album of disparate, diverse songs without the thread of a story. In fact, you will need to study the accompanying program book if you want to have any clue how the songs relate to the story. Taken either in context or without it, this is a strong album by one of the most talented practitioners of rock/pop music that the world has ever known. (OK – so I’m opinionated...)
Townshend’s work is more rock than pop, though both elements are here. The songs are diverse, some of them soaring and inspirational, others whimsical and humorous, but in general affirming of humanity and supporting of that theme in the book. There are a few turkeys among them, but very few. The sonics on the CD are impressive. If you don’t compare it to the LP you probably won’t even guess that you’re missing a bit more body. And presence. And detail. Oh heck – if you have a turntable at all the LP is the way to go. If you don’t, well – you have my sympathy.
His work with the Who has cemented Townshend’s place in rock history, and his solo work, though less well known, also attests to his genius. Any of his solo albums are worth buying new, though I must observe that they may often found in the used or bargain bins at record stores. A sad testament to the state of the record-buying public’s taste, I know. But if you’re a vinyl fan that enjoys spending time treasure hunting in such venues, do look for them.