Personnel:
Ian Hunter - lead vocals, guitars, piano
Mick Ronson - lead guitar, keyboards, vocals
Tommy Mandel - keyboards
Tommy Morrongiello - bass, vocals
Martin Briley - bass
Eric Parker - drums
George Meyer - keyboards, vocals
Mick Jones - guitars, vocals
Topper Headon - drums, percussion
Tymon Dogg - violin
Ellen Foley - vocals
Miller Anderson - vocals
Mick Baraken - guitar on "Gun Control"
Wells Kelly - drums on "Gun Control"
John Holbrook - bass on "Gun Control"
Gary Windo - alto saxophone on "I Need Your Love"
Roger Powell - backing vocals on "I Need Your Love"
Todd Rundgren - bass, backing vocals on "I Need Your Love"
Release date: 29 August 1981
Running time: 44:55 (Original release) 105:38 (2 CD edition)
Current edition: Chrysalis
Highest chart places: UK #79, US #62.
Prepare yourselves, dear music aficionados, for a wild ride through the enigma of Ian Hunter's sonic universe. Brace your eardrums, for what lies ahead is nothing short of audacious. As Hunter himself boldly declares, "I don't say much but I make a big noise," a sentiment that reverberates through every inch of his being and spills over into his musical creations. And so it was, in 1981, that the world witnessed the birth of Short Back 'n' Sides—a curious offering that would leave fans divided and intrigued in equal measure. But let us not forget the personal symphony unfolding in Hunter's life, for amidst the musical whirlwind, a precious gift arrived: the birth of his son, John Jesse Hunter Patterson, an event that added an extra layer of profundity to this chapter of his artistic journey.
With Mick Ronson at the production helm, aided by the likes of Martin Briley, Tommy Mandel, Tommy Morrongiello, Eric Parker, and George Meyer, the recording process embarked upon a tumultuous path. As the studio days stretched on, a momentary lull in enthusiasm prompted Hunter and Ronson to seek assistance, and lo and behold, who should answer the call but the fervent Mott devotee himself, Mick Jones of The Clash.
Yet, even with the injection of fresh energy, Hunter candidly admits that venturing into uncharted musical territories can be a double-edged sword. The creative well running dry, Ronson gracefully stepped aside, allowing Jones to take the reins for the remainder of the endeavor. And oh, what a wondrous transformation occurred! With Jones's inventive prowess, the sonic tapestry morphed into a kaleidoscope of odd sound effects, reggae-infused rhythms, and a captivating amalgamation of genres. It was, without a doubt, the most daring and experimental venture Hunter had ever embarked upon—a testament to the boundless depths of his artistic exploration. So fasten your seatbelts, dear listeners, and prepare to immerse yourselves in a sonic odyssey that defies convention, challenges expectations, and offers a tantalizing glimpse into the artist that is Ian Hunter.
Ian Hunter On Track for Sonicbond Publishing, TheDoctorOfDigital@pm.me
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