About the song
Savoy Brown’s “Hellbound Train” is a compelling and intense track that exemplifies the raw energy and deep emotion characteristic of blues-rock. Released in 1972 as the title track of their album Hellbound Train, this song stands out as a powerful testament to the band’s ability to blend traditional blues with a harder, rock-infused edge.
The song’s narrative is a vivid portrayal of existential struggle and personal reckoning, using the metaphor of a “hellbound train” to explore themes of fate, consequence, and redemption. With its haunting lyrics and brooding tone, “Hellbound Train” delves into the darker aspects of human experience, reflecting the turmoil and introspection of its time. The imagery of a relentless, ominous train serves as a potent symbol of inevitable challenges and the search for meaning in the face of adversity.
Kim Simmonds, the driving force behind Savoy Brown, delivers a gripping performance on guitar, leading the band through a maze of moody riffs and intricate solos that amplify the song’s dramatic narrative. The band’s musicianship is on full display, with a powerful rhythm section and Simmonds’ emotive guitar work creating a backdrop of tension and intensity that perfectly complements the lyrical content.
For fans of blues-rock, “Hellbound Train” is more than just a song; it’s an evocative journey through a landscape of emotional and existential complexity. Savoy Brown, known for their pioneering contributions to the British blues scene, effectively captures the spirit of the genre with this track. Listening to “Hellbound Train” today, one can appreciate the depth and craftsmanship that went into creating this timeless piece. The song remains a powerful reminder of Savoy Brown’s unique ability to convey profound themes through their distinctive blend of blues and rock, ensuring its place as a standout track in their storied discography.
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Lyrics
Hellbound Train I’m on it’s track
Too late now to turn my back
Conductor coming ticket in his hand
Come to claim my soul
Take me to his land
Hellbound Train I been so wrong
Too late now I’m moving on
Conductor standing watch in his hand
Got to get aboard take you to his land
I’m going down the road on the Hellbound Train
Take a long look lady ’cause you won’t see me again
Take a last look lady, yes hard and long
‘Cause I’m going down the road on the Hellbound Train
Hellbound Train driving slow
Move on down to the Hell below
Conductor please won’t you lend a hand?
Got to get on board take me to your land
Yes I know I’ve been so wrong
Too late now I’m moving on
Hellbound Train I’m on it’s track
Moving down I can’t look back
I’m going down the road on the Hellbound Train
Take a long look lady ’cause you won’t see me again
Take a last look lady, yes hard and long
‘Cause I’m going down the road on the Hellbound Train
I’m going down the road on the Hellbound Train
Take a long look lady ’cause you won’t see me again
Take a last look lady, yes hard and long
‘Cause I’m going down the road on the Hellbound Train
Lost and flying down the road on the Hellbound Train
Lost and flying down the road on the Hellbound Train
Hand and hand with the devil