Life After Death, Ian Hunter, You're Never Alone With a Schizophrenic

Life After Death is a bouncy and beautifully produced full tilt rocker features a staccato piano, an memorable drum run, along with a fabulous Ronson solo. Hunter could have been reflecting metaphysical questions but it may not be quite as existential as the title suggests since Hunter is sorry smoking so much and feeling the Devil's touch but wondering if he will live. Ian was writing tongue-in-cheek as on Wild East. Feeling under the weather after what sounds like too much partying he writes a clever line asking:

I hear choirs filled with Fenders say return to sender

Anyone who has partied too hardily can relate to the idea that you might not live.  

Hunter relates that this song just came and he did it. The piano track came with a hook and the rest came later about fun and fear. 

It was a standard play list song during 1979 eliciting three live versions in that year alone.

Also recorded at My Father's Place, Roslyn NY 12th June 1979 on Missing In Action.

More info on Ian Hunter On Track for Sonicbond Publishing, TheDoctorOfDigital@pm.me

Life After Death

(Ian Hunter)

Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe? Oh yeah!
Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe? Oh yeah!

Do you stop take another roller coaster ride
Do I beg, steal, cheat or lie? Oh my is there life after death?
Oh I wish I'd never smoked so much
I wish I'd never felt the Devil's touch
All that passes through my eyes so fast. Oh my.
Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe? Oh yeah!
Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe? Oh yeah!

It's such a sad sad song
Mother Nature ain't never wrong
She always tells you when you're getting on
Oh my, is there life after death?

I can hardly wait to see my face
Will I still have one in a different place
Oh you'll forgive me if I hesitate, but oh my
Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe? Oh yeah!
Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe? Oh yeah!

Is it any wonder, I feel just a little bit under
I hear choirs filled with Fenders say return to sender
Jumping information, I've got hyperventilation
Will it help me if I walk the streets
I gotta get down search around feel the ground by my feet

Oh no I never knew just how long this could go
If only I could go down slow
I'm gonna shake it, shake it, shake it, is there life after death
I can't remember when I felt so sick and rough
And now they're gonna legalise the stuff
It sure tells you when you've had enough, off the cuff

Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe? Oh yeah!

Is there life, is there life? Is there life after death? Do you believe,
I've run out of breath.

Ian Hunter LP/CD: "You're Never Alone With a Schizophrenic"

Sleeve and track listing

CHRX 1214 / 50999 698134 2 9. 

Disc 1

1. Just Another Night
2. Wild East
3. Cleveland Rocks
4. Ships
5. When the Daylight Comes
6. Life After Death
7. Standin' In My Light
8. Bastard
9. The Outsider
10. Don't Let Go (demo)¹
11. Ships (take 1)¹
12. When The Daylight Comes (early version)¹
13. Just Another Night (early version)¹
14. Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On¹
15. Ships (early version)²
16. Just Another Night (electric)²

Disc 2

1. FBI³
2. Once Bitten Twice Shy³
3. Life After Death³
4. Sons And Daughters⁴
5. Laugh At Me⁴
6. Just Another Night⁴
7. One Of The Boys⁴
8. Letter To Brittania From The Union Jack⁵
9. Bastard⁵
10. All The Way From Memphis³
11. Cleveland Rocks³
12. All The Young Dudes⁴
13. When The Daylight Comes³
14. Sweet Angeline³

¹Bonus track on 30th Anniversary 2-CD issue

²Download only (eg from Amazon) - not on the physical CD!

³Live, Agora Ballroom, Cleveland OH 18th June 1979

⁴Live, Hammersmith Odeon, London 22nd November 1979

⁵Live, Berkeley Community Theatre, Berkeley CA 7th July 1979

Sleeve variations

The US CD sleeve

The original UK sleeve

Review

Ian came back after a two-year absence in 1979 with this album. Mick Ronson was back on guitar, and Bruce Springsteen's E-Street Band were the backing musicians (they had just worked on Meat Loaf's Bat Out of Hell album).

This is a brilliant album, and the yardstick by which all his other work is judged. From the opening beat of Just Another Night to the closing strains of The Outsider there isn't a bad track on here. Mixing full-tilt rockers (Cleveland Rocks, Life After Death) with sensitive ballads (Ships) the album is well-paced and leaves the listener wanting more.

This was issued on CD on Chrysalis in the UK in 1994, and on Razor & Tie in the USA in 1995. The UK release was a limited-edition "25th Anniversary" edition, in a long (blue) box, with a blue jewel-case and booklet (which was about Chrysalis generally, not Ian). Sound quality is very good. No bonus tracks.

1999 saw this CD reissued in the UK, this time on the EMI label as part of their "Classic Rock" series. It boasted new sleeve notes, and improved (remastered) sound quality.

2009 saw a 2-CD issue with a wealth of bonus tracks and a second disc of previously-unreleased live material. As a live document the second disc works very well, despite being recorded at a variety of venues.

Of the bonus material on the first disc perhaps the most interesting is the early version of Just Another Night which features radically different lyrics, showing how such a classic song can develop from the initial germ of an idea to the finished product.

Life After Death	3:49	Originally released on You're Never Alone With a Schizophrenic, and on the compilations From The Knees Of My Heart and The Singles Collection 1975-83.
Life After Death (live 12th June 1979)	4:37	This live version (recorded at My Father's Place, Roslyn NY) was released on Missing In Action (not on the box set).
Life After Death (live 18th June 1979)	4:46	This live version (recorded at the Agora, Cleveland OH) is on the 30th Anniversary issue of You're Never Alone With a Schizophrenic. Not on the box set.
Life After Death (live 22nd November 1979)	5:16	This live version (recorded Hammermith Odeon, London England) is on If You Wait Long Enough For Anything, You Can Get It On Sale (box set only).

Life, Ian Hunter, When I'm President

The closing song Life on this excellent release is a philosophical reflection of a wise elder statesman. It's advice about taking life easier since fear, stress, age, and holding grudges can kill you so learn to laugh at life. Regardless of your status in life we are all just trying to get by. He suggests not to take social media seriously and this seems to be all the stupid stuff. There are serious things in life but these are not it. The song started out as a strong piano melody but at first Ian didn't realize how well it closes out his live shows; this sound advice is related before a segue into a signature rendition of All The Young Dudes. 

Less obvious than Ships but Ian is thinking of his father who died of a stroke and how Hunter tended to take his work home with him. He is describing how doing something that you love can also become a job with all the responsibilities. Hunter also writes to his kids to do your work but then come home, relax, and be happy. 

Ian Hunter On Track for Sonicbond Publishing, TheDoctorOfDigital@pm.me

Life

(Ian Hunter)

Easy come, easy go... just another rock 'n' roll show, hope you had a great night
When you get home and climb in to bed
Just remember what I said 
'n laugh because it's only life

Fear knows how to kill ya
stress knows how to kill ya, take a little sound advice
We're all gettin' older
Let some of those chips fall off your shoulders
And laugh because it's only life

Laugh because it's only, laugh because it's only 
Laugh because it's only life

When you're down remember that 
It's all water off a duck's back
And laugh because it's only life

Some of us are born rich 
Some of us ain't got a tent to pitch, most of us just get by
You gotta learn to live with it, you gotta learn to smile a little bit 
And laugh because it's only life

I ain't talkin' 'bout the serious stuff, just talking 'bout the stupid stuff
The things you do when you get high
Did you blow it on MySpace, did you Twitter when you were outta your face
Well laugh because it's only life

Laugh because it's only - laugh because it's only - laugh because it's only life
When you're down remember that - it's all water off a duck's back
And laugh because it's only life

I hope you had a good time - hope your time was as good as mine, my you're such a beautiful sight
I can't believe after all of these years, you're still here and I'm still here
Laugh because it's only life

Laugh because it's only - laugh because it's only - laugh because it's only life
When you're down remember that - it's all water off a duck's back 
And laugh because it's only life

Ian Hunter and The Rant Band CD: "When I'm President"

Sleeve and track listing

Proper Records PRPCD104

1. Comfortable (Flyin' Scotsman)
2. Fatally Flawed
3. When I'm President
4. What For
5. Black Tears
6. Saint
7. Just The Way You Look Tonight
8. Wild Bunch
9. Ta Shunka Witco (Crazy Horse)
10. I Don't Know What You Want
11. Life

Review

Now this is more like it. Ian's new album is a welcome return to form. The good news is this album is chock full of rockers. The bad news is... well, there isn't any. In the fullness of time this album could well turn out to be his best in many years.

The run of good albums that started with Rant and continued with Shrunken Heads continues here. Guitars are to the full, with strong solos from both James Mastro and Mark Bosch. Ian's singing is strong without ever sounding strained and the rhythm section is as tight as a duck's whatsit.

What helps of course is that the songs are top-notch. Comfortable (Flyin' Scotsman) sets the tone, being a powerful full-paced rocker with guitars and subtle use of saxes. The title track is also strong, a mid-paced rocker with a repeated keyboard refrain reminiscent of The Who's Won't Get Fooled Again.

What For is another rocker with strong guitars and piano reminiscent of early Mott The Hoople. Ian hasn't rocked like this for years, and it sounds like he's having fun. Black Tears is slower but powerful and moody with a guitar solo that reminds me of the much-missed Mick Ronson. Saint is another up-tempo rocker, this time it reminds me at times of Twisted Steel. Wild Bunch meanwhile is a rocker that reminds me of The Faces.

There are so many good songs on this album it is hard to pick out highlights. What's interesting is that this album is credited to Ian Hunter And The Rant Band. This is much more of a band album than most of Ian's recent albums, and it is much the better for it.

What more can I say? It's brilliant... 'nuff said,

Life

4:58

Originally issued on When I'm President.

Burning America: In the Best Interest of the Company? Conclusion

 

Conclusion 

Now, the sections of your conclusion remind the reader of the takeaways they got from the book, share next steps, and make sure they have everything they need to move forward. 

 

The sections will look like this:

 

Summary: A clear and simple breakdown of takeaways the reader should have gotten from the book. These can be bullet points.  

 

Next Steps: Share what the reader should do next. Make sure you leave the reader with a specific call to action, whether that’s to implement the next steps or book a call with you for help.

 

Additional Resources: List anything that helps readers take the next step. Make sure you compile any resources you mentioned throughout your book, as well as any other links, tools, courses, or information to help the reader get their desired outcome. 

 

About The Author: Finish with a short bio about yourself.

Summary: In this book, we explored the concept of "Ora et labora" and how it emphasizes the importance of balancing spiritual devotion with physical labor and productive activity. We saw how this principle has been regarded as critical in achieving a harmonious and balanced life, contributing to a sense of community and purpose.

Next Steps: As you move forward, remember to maintain a connection with the divine and use your skills and abilities for the greater good. Make sure to devote equal time to your spiritual and practical needs, and seek fulfillment in both your spiritual practice and your work.

Additional Resources: To continue exploring the concept of "Ora et labora" and leading a balanced life, consider checking out the Benedictine Order and their teachings. Additionally, there are numerous resources available online for spiritual and personal development, including meditation and mindfulness practices, yoga, and self-help books.

About The Author: [Insert short bio about yourself here, highlighting your expertise and experience in the field of spirituality and personal development.]

Burning America: In the Best Interest of the Company: Chapter 11: How Readers Can Get the Solution They Need Fast

 

Chapter 11: How Readers Can Get the Solution They Need Fast 

Chapter 11 helps the reader see how they can create the “secret key” faster and more easily than they thought. 

 

The goal is to help them reach the outcome they had in mind when they first started your book.

Here’s how you do that:

• Explain all of the tools, strategies, and steps the reader will need to implement your solution.
• Break them down into practical actions so the reader knows everything they’ll need to do to move forward.

In addition to the core text, it would be helpful to provide some historical context around the Rule of Saint Benedict and the time period in which it was written. This could include information about the societal and cultural factors that led to the development of monasticism and the importance of balancing physical labor with spiritual devotion during this time.

Furthermore, it may be beneficial to explore the different ways in which the concept of "Ora et labora" has been interpreted and applied throughout history, including its relevance to modern life. For example, how has this principle been adapted by non-religious organizations or individuals seeking a balanced and purposeful life?

In Chapter 11, it may also be useful to provide case studies or examples of individuals who have successfully implemented the strategies and tools outlined in the book to create their own "secret key." This can help readers see how the principles discussed in the book can be applied in real-life situations and provide them with inspiration and motivation to take action.

Additionally, it may be helpful to address potential obstacles or challenges that readers may face when implementing the strategies outlined in the book and provide tips for overcoming these challenges. This can help readers feel more confident in their ability to create their own "secret key" and achieve their desired outcomes.

Burning America: In the Best Interest of the Company? Chapter 10: Exactly What Goes Into Creating the “Secret Key”

 

Chapter 10: Exactly What Goes Into Creating the “Secret Key”

In Chapter 10, you’ll dig deeper into your “secret key.” 

 

Now that readers have gotten their first win with you, they’ll be ready to explore the actions necessary to create this part of your solution for themselves.

Ideas for breaking down how readers can create this “secret key”:

• Discuss the factors you’ve seen as necessary for someone to successfully create your “secret key.”
• ​Use examples to explain why each of those factors is important.
  
• Share action steps the reader can implement now, and what they can expect when they’ve completed everything necessary to create their own “secret key.”

Expanding on the concept of "Ora et labora," it is important to note that this principle encourages a holistic approach to life that involves both spiritual and practical pursuits. By prioritizing both aspects of life, individuals can achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment.

The "secret key" mentioned in Chapter 10 refers to the specific actions and practices that individuals can implement to achieve this balance and lead a harmonious life. These actions may vary from person to person, but there are certain factors that are crucial for success.

For example, one factor may be setting clear goals and priorities for both spiritual and practical pursuits. Without clear direction, individuals may find themselves overwhelmed and unable to effectively balance their time and energy. Another important factor may be cultivating a supportive community that encourages and motivates individuals to pursue their goals.

In Chapter 10, readers can expect to learn more about these crucial factors and how they can implement them in their own lives to create their own "secret key." The chapter may provide specific action steps, such as creating a daily schedule or setting aside time for spiritual practice, and explain why these actions are important. By the end of the chapter, readers should have a clear understanding of what it takes to create their own "secret key" and how it can contribute to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Burning America: In the Best Interest of the Company? Chapter 9: Instructions for Taking the First Step

 

Chapter 9: Instructions for Taking the First Step

Chapter 9 kicks off section 3 of your book. 

 

This section is all about how people can implement the most important parts of what you’re teaching quickly. 

 

This is important. Because this is what helps people get a taste of your specific method in action and see the results you can help them achieve. 

 

And those wins they get from your book are exactly what makes them say…

 

“Hey, I wonder what else I could learn from this person.”

Ideas for helping readers take the first step:

• Think about the very first thing someone would need to do to make your solution work. Break that down into steps that are easy to act on fast.
• Share why taking this first action is so important to achieving what the reader wants.
• Provide examples, tools, and specific actions so the reader knows exactly what they need to do to get their first win from your book.

To further elaborate on Chapter 9, you can also provide guidance on how to overcome common obstacles that readers may face when trying to take the first step towards implementing your solution. These obstacles could include lack of motivation, time constraints, or a feeling of being overwhelmed by the amount of work involved.

Offering practical tips and strategies to overcome these obstacles can help readers feel empowered and motivated to take action. You can also provide examples of how others have successfully overcome similar obstacles and achieved their goals by following your solution.

In addition, it may be helpful to provide guidance on how to measure progress and track results after taking the first step. This can help readers stay motivated and committed to their goals, as well as provide valuable feedback to refine and improve the implementation of your solution.

Overall, Chapter 9 should not only provide clear and actionable steps for readers to take the first step towards implementing your solution, but also address common obstacles and provide guidance on how to measure progress and stay motivated along the way.

Burning America: In the Best Interest of the Company? Chapter 8: The Critical Components of Your Solution

 

Chapter 8: The Critical Components of Your Solution

The purpose of Chapter 8 is simple: to list the critical components of your solution and discuss how they all fit together to solve the reader’s problems. 

Here’s how you can do that:

• List the critical components of your solution. This will include your “secret key” and your “core mechanism,” but it will likely include other elements, like tools, steps, or processes you use to bring your solution to life.
• ​Demonstrate how the critical components of your solution work together, with real examples from your experience or your clients’ success stories. 
  
• Include templates or samples of how this looks in practice. The ultimate goal is that your reader finishes this chapter with an exact understanding of how they can set up your solution and make it work for them.

Chapter 8: The Critical Components of Your Solution

In the previous chapter, we discussed the actionable steps needed to implement the "Ora et labora" principle in modern times. Now, we will explore the critical components that make this principle effective in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.

The first critical component of the "Ora et labora" principle is to establish a daily practice of prayer or meditation. This helps to cultivate a connection with the divine and a sense of inner peace and clarity. The second component is to engage in physical labor or productive activity that contributes to the betterment of oneself and others.

In addition to these two fundamental components, there are other tools and techniques that can be incorporated to enhance the effectiveness of this principle. These may include practices such as journaling, goal-setting, time-management, and self-reflection. Each of these components is critical in its own way and contributes to the overall success of the "Ora et labora" principle.

Throughout this chapter, we will delve deeper into each of these components and demonstrate how they work together to form a cohesive system for achieving balance and fulfillment in life. We will also provide real-life examples and success stories from those who have implemented this principle in their own lives and have experienced the benefits firsthand.

To make the implementation of this principle easier for the reader, we will include templates and samples of how these components can be put into practice. By the end of this chapter, the reader will have a clear understanding of how to set up their own "Ora et labora" system and make it work for them.