Fear of Music
Talking Heads · 1979
40 min · 11 tracks · new wave · post-punk
A rhythmic exploration of anxiety and urban alienation infused with eclectic instrumentation and David Byrne's idiosyncratic vocal style.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady, consistent energy levels dynamic emotional journeys atmospheric background focus
- Context
- Released on August 3, 1979, 'Fear of Music' was Talking Heads' third studio album, following the breakthrough success of 'More Songs About Buildings and Food.' This album marked a pivotal moment in their evolution, showcasing their embrace of more complex rhythms and darker themes as they transitioned from art rock into the burgeoning new wave scene.
- If you like
- new wave, post-punk
Fear of Music is an album by Talking Heads, released in 1979. A rhythmic exploration of anxiety and urban alienation infused with eclectic instrumentation and David Byrne's idiosyncratic vocal style. The album peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard 200, solidifying Talking Heads’ influence in the late '70s music landscape. Additionally, 'Fear of Music' received significant critical acclaim for its innovative sound and lyrical depth, being frequently cited in discussions about post-punk and new wave music's evolution. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Fear of Music sound like?
A rhythmic exploration of anxiety and urban alienation infused with eclectic instrumentation and David Byrne's idiosyncratic vocal style. Rooted in new wave and post-punk.
What makes Fear of Music by Talking Heads notable?
The album peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard 200, solidifying Talking Heads’ influence in the late '70s music landscape. Additionally, 'Fear of Music' received significant critical acclaim for its innovative sound and lyrical depth, being frequently cited in discussions about post-punk and new wave music's evolution. Released on August 3, 1979, 'Fear of Music' was Talking Heads' third studio album, following the breakthrough success of 'More Songs About Buildings and Food.' This album marked a pivotal moment in their evolution, showcasing their embrace of more complex rhythms and darker themes as they transitioned from art rock into the burgeoning new wave scene.
Who is Fear of Music for?
Fear of Music works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.
How many songs are on Fear of Music?
Fear of Music has 11 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 I Zimbra 3:08
- 2 Mind 4:12
- 3 Paper 2:39
- 4 Cities Standout 4:10
- 5 Life During Wartime Standout 3:41
- 6 Memories Can’t Wait 3:30
- 7 Air 3:34
- 8 Heaven Standout 4:00
- 9 Animals 3:30
- 10 Electric Guitar 3:02
- 11 Drugs 5:09
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
