What makes Cross Talk by The Pretty Things notable?

Cross Talk is notable for its resurgence in critical interest surrounding The Pretty Things, particularly as it showcased their transition into a more mature sound that appealed to both longtime fans and new listeners. The album received attention for its polished production and lyrical depth, which helped maintain the band's relevance in a changing musical environment. Released in 1980, Cross Talk marked The Pretty Things' first album after a significant hiatus since their 1974 release, Silk Torpedo. At this point in their career, the band was revisiting their roots while adapting to the evolving music landscape of the late '70s and early '80s, showcasing both their resilience and willingness to innovate.

Who is Cross Talk for?

Cross Talk works well if you're into short bursts of vibrant energy, catchy choruses for sing-alongs and playful irreverence in lyrical themes.

How many songs are on Cross Talk?

Cross Talk has 10 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Cross Talk

The Pretty Things · 1980

35 min · 10 tracks · rhythm and blues

A vibrant blend of rhythm and blues infused with rock sensibilities, echoing the band's storied legacy while exploring fresh themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I'm Calling — This opening track sets the tone with its catchy hooks and evocative lyrics about longing, encapsulating the blend of vulnerability and strength present throughout the album.
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Edge of the Night — Featuring a captivating melody, this song explores themes of uncertainty and desire, showcasing the band's ability to merge emotive storytelling with engaging rhythms.
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Falling Again — With its reflective lyrics on love and loss, this track highlights the band's lyrical evolution while maintaining their signature sound, making it a standout moment on the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short bursts of vibrant energy
catchy choruses for sing-alongs
playful irreverence in lyrical themes
late-night drives with friends

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, immersive albums
want slow, contemplative tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1980, Cross Talk marked The Pretty Things' first album after a significant hiatus since their 1974 release, Silk Torpedo. At this point in their career, the band was revisiting their roots while adapting to the evolving music landscape of the late '70s and early '80s, showcasing both their resilience and willingness to innovate.
Stylistic neighbors: The Rolling Stones· The Yardbirds· The Animals

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Office Love

The narrative shifts from playful flirtation to poignant reflection on workplace relationships and unfulfilled dreams.

This transition captures the complexities of modern love within mundane settings, contrasting lightheartedness with deeper emotional truths.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 I'm Calling 4:03
2 Edge of the Night 3:18
3 Sea of Blue 3:11
4 Lost That Girl 2:47
5 Bitter End 3:14
6 Office Love 4:09
7 Falling Again 3:18
8 It's So Hard 3:13
9 She Don't 4:06
10 No Future 4:27

What to play next

Listen next

Out of the Island

1987

Go back to

Savage Eye

1975

Full The Pretty Things discography Artists like The Pretty Things

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata