Free – The Hunter: A Raw Power Anthem with Bluesy Roots
“The Hunter,” a fierce and electrifying track from Free’s 1969 debut album Tons of Sobs, is a perfect snapshot of the band’s raw energy and blues-rock sensibilities. Though not an original composition by the band—it was penned by the songwriting collective of Steve Cropper, Donald “Duck” Dunn, Al Jackson Jr., Booker T. Jones, and Carl Wells—Free’s rendition infuses the song with their unique spirit, making it feel authentically theirs.
From the very first riff, “The Hunter” grips the listener with its primal urgency. Paul Kossoff’s gritty, searing guitar work sets the tone, laying a foundation of raw power that perfectly complements Paul Rodgers’ soulful, commanding vocals. The track brims with swagger, its lyrics a confident proclamation of desire and pursuit that aligns with the rebellious ethos of late ’60s rock.
Andy Fraser’s bassline pulsates with infectious groove, driving the rhythm alongside Simon Kirke’s solid drumming. Together, they create a powerful, unrelenting foundation that allows the song to move with a sense of purpose and momentum. It’s this combination of individual prowess and collective chemistry that makes “The Hunter” stand out, even among the stellar tracks on Tons of Sobs.
This cover not only honors the song’s origins as a Memphis soul-blues classic but also reimagines it with the fiery intensity that defined Free’s early work. It’s a raw, unpolished gem that captures the essence of a young band eager to leave their mark, foreshadowing the immense potential they would soon fulfill with hits like “All Right Now” and “Fire and Water.”
“The Hunter” embodies the unfiltered spirit of Free’s formative years—a heady mix of blues influences, rock energy, and unrestrained passion. For fans of the band, it’s a thrilling dive into their roots, offering a glimpse of the raw talent and fearless ambition that would come to define their legacy in rock history.