"The Hunger" is an intense, driving piece of melodic heavy metal/hard rock that firmly belongs to the late-80s style Dokken helped pioneer. The track is characterized by a fast, relentless pace and a pounding drum beat, giving it a strong sense of urgency that matches the title. Don Dokken's vocals are delivered with passion and power, using his signature blend of melodic wailing and high-pitched layering in the chorus, which is designed to be anthemic. The track features dynamic guitar work from John Norum and Billy White, including blazing, shred-style solos and heavy, palm-muted riffing, ensuring it maintains the crucial guitar-hero element of classic Dokken. It represents the continuation of the classic Dokken sound—upbeat, guitar-driven, and highly melodic—following the band's initial split.