What does Feelings sound like?

A playful blend of eclectic textures and introspective lyrics that dance between irony and sincerity. Rooted in alternative rock and new wave. Start with "Fuzzy Freaky".

Is Feelings a good place to start with David Byrne?

Yes, Feelings is recommended as a starting point for new David Byrne listeners. A playful blend of eclectic textures and introspective lyrics that dance between irony and sincerity. Released on June 17, 1997, 'Feelings' was David Byrne's fourth solo studio album following the disbandment of Talking Heads. At this point in his career, Byrne was exploring more experimental sounds and personal themes after his acclaimed works in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Feelings works well if you're into playful exploration of emotions, wave-like pacing keeps interest and quirky vocals for introspective moments.

How many songs are on Feelings?

Feelings has 14 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Feelings

David Byrne · 1997

48 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock

A playful blend of eclectic textures and introspective lyrics that dance between irony and sincerity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Fuzzy Freaky Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Miss America — This track stands out for its sharp critique of American identity wrapped in a catchy melody, revealing Byrne's knack for blending activism with art.
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Dance on Vaseline — The song captures a carefree spirit while discussing themes of vulnerability, showcasing Byrne's ability to juxtapose upbeat music with deeper messages.
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Wicked Little Doll — Byrne's exploration of the darker sides of love and desire in this track is both haunting and playful, reflecting his unique storytelling style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases eclectic instrumentation and varied vocal styles but lacks a strong cohesive narrative.

What we noticed

The album features a wide range of instrumentation, including strings, brass, and electronic elements that create diverse soundscapes across tracks.
Several tracks incorporate unconventional song structures, such as abrupt tempo changes and unexpected instrumental breaks.
Byrne's vocal delivery varies significantly from track to track, alternating between spoken word and melodic singing, which adds to the album's eclectic feel.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful exploration of emotions
wave-like pacing keeps interest
quirky vocals for introspective moments
varied energy for dynamic listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, fast-paced music
seek consistent, uniform sound

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — The album explores eclectic sounds, marking a departure from Byrne's earlier styles.
Themes: American absurdity· whimsical nostalgia· social commentary
Moods: Chill
Career context: Released on June 17, 1997, 'Feelings' was David Byrne's fourth solo studio album following the disbandment of Talking Heads. At this point in his career, Byrne was exploring more experimental sounds and personal themes after his acclaimed works in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Stylistic neighbors: Talking Heads· Brian Eno· The B-52's

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Miss America

The narrative voice shifts to reflect on American ideals versus reality through vivid imagery of consumerism and superficiality.

This contrast not only highlights the dissonance in American culture but also showcases Byrne’s skillful use of metaphor to provoke thought.