Mott The Hoople: Mad Shadows Album (1970)

Mott The Hoople’s Mad Shadows LP, was released in the UK on September 25, 1970, on Island Records (catalogue: ILPS 9119). This seven-track sophomore album, following their 1969 self-titled debut, showcased the band’s raw, proto-glam rock sound, blending hard rock, blues, and introspective balladry.

Produced by the band with engineer Andy Johns, Mad Shadows captured Mott at a creative peak, though it faced mixed reviews for its darker, less polished tone compared to their debut. Housed in a striking gatefold sleeve with abstract artwork by William S. Harvey, the album marked a pivotal step in their journey toward glam rock stardom.

Album Overview

Tracklist:

Side A:

Thunderbuck Ram (4:50)

No Wheels to Ride (5:50)

You Are One of Us (2:26)

Walkin’ with a Mountain (3:49)

Side B:

I Can Feel (7:13)

Threads of Iron (5:12)

When My Mind’s Gone (6:31)

Release Details:

Label: Island Records (UK pressing, stereo, pink rim label).

Format: Vinyl LP, 33⅓ RPM, in a gatefold sleeve with abstract, moody artwork by William S. Harvey and lyrics printed inside.

Notes: ℗ 1970 Island Records Ltd. Recorded at Olympic Studios, London, in early 1970. US release on Atlantic Records (SD 8258) featured similar packaging. Matrix numbers (e.g., ILPS 9119 A-1U) confirm authenticity.

Production and Context

Self-produced by Mott The Hoople with engineering by Andy Johns (known for work with Led Zeppelin), Mad Shadows was recorded in a tense, rushed session at Olympic Studios. The lineup featured Ian Hunter (vocals, piano), Mick Ralphs (guitar, vocals), Verden Allen (organ), Pete “Overend” Watts (bass), and Dale “Buffin” Griffin (drums). Ian Hunter’s introspective songwriting dominated, with tracks like “When My Mind’s Gone” reflecting personal struggles, while Ralphs’ “Thunderbuck Ram” brought raw energy. Released amid the UK’s early ‘70s rock scene, alongside bands like Free and Black Sabbath, the album struggled commercially but built Mott’s cult following, setting the stage for their David Bowie-produced All the Young Dudes (1972).

Chart Performance

Mad Shadows had limited chart success, reflecting Mott The Hoople’s early commercial challenges:

UK: Did not chart on the Official Albums Chart, as the band’s popularity was still growing.

US: Peaked at No. 166 on the Billboard 200, with minimal traction.

Other Markets: No significant chart entries in Europe or Australia, though the album gained cult status in Germany and Scandinavia through later tours. The lack of a hit single and its darker tone hindered mainstream appeal, but it resonated with fans of raw, emotive rock.

Legacy and Collectibility

Mad Shadows is now regarded as a proto-glam gem, praised for its gritty authenticity and Hunter’s emotive vocals. Tracks like “Thunderbuck Ram” and “Walkin’ with a Mountain” became live staples, with the latter later featuring a nod to “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” in performances.

The album influenced later glam and punk acts, with its raw edge echoing in bands like The Clash. Original UK vinyls fetch £20–£80 on Discogs, with first pressings (pink rim labels, intact gatefolds) commanding premiums—check matrix numbers for authenticity.

Remastered CDs (e.g., Angel Air’s 2003 reissue with bonus tracks) and Spotify streams preserve its analog warmth, making it accessible for collectors.

This LP captures Mott The Hoople’s raw, transitional sound—a vital piece for glam rock enthusiasts.

Do you have Mad Shadows in your vinyl collection? Which track rocks your turntable? Share in the comments!