"Faithful" is the seventh album by Todd Rundgren, released in 1976. The album's title is a nod to the nature of its content, with side one of the album containing six classic 1960s pop and rock tunes covered verbatim in Rundgren's unique style. The song selections notably hint at Rundgren's key musical influences, featuring tracks by The Yardbirds, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, The Beach Boys, and Smokey Robinson.
On the flip side, Rundgren's distinct originality comes to the fore in six new songs written and performed by the artist, which echo elements of his previous work, best described as a fusion of progressive rock and blue-eyed soul. Despite the earlier tracks' well-executed covers, it is Rundgren's original compositions that reportedly provide the album's high points, offering an introspective view into his life and romantic entanglements.
Upon its release, "Faithful" was met with a mixed critical response, with some pointing out that the album's concept, though ambitious, produced a slightly uneven result. Commercially, it wasn't a huge hit, but it reached number 54 on the Billboard charts and has since been appreciated as an interesting creative effort in Rundgren's discography. Even after years of its release, the album continues to influence modern artists and captivate Rundgren's dedicated fan base.
