Rei Momo cover

Rei Momo

David Byrne · 1989

63 min · 15 tracks · alternative rock · new wave

A vibrant fusion of world music rhythms and eclectic rock, rich with rhythmic diversity and lyrical storytelling.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant rhythmic exploration
  • lyrical storytelling journeys
  • immersive listening experiences
  • dynamic shifts in mood
  • colorful sonic landscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — First solo album post-Talking Heads, gaining significant attention and wider recognition.
Themes
Latin-inspired love· cultural fusion· social commentary rhythms
Career context
Released in 1989, 'Rei Momo' marked David Byrne's first solo album after his iconic tenure with Talking Heads. At this point in his career, Byrne was exploring a variety of cultural influences, reflecting a shift towards world music elements that began to define his solo work. This album followed the critically acclaimed soundtrack for 'The Last Emperor' and highlighted Byrne's artistic expansion beyond the confines of new wave rock.
Stylistic neighbors
Talking Heads· Brian Eno· The B-52's
If this clicks, go next to
Uh-Oh — Continues the eclectic sound and rhythmic diversity found in Rei Momo.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Remain in Light by Talking Heads — Shares a vibrant fusion of world rhythms and eclectic rock with rich textures and layered sounds.
Graceland by Paul Simon — Explores cultural fusion through diverse rhythms and storytelling, echoing Byrne's Latin-inspired themes.
Kiko by Los Lobos — Combines rock with Mexican folk traditions, offering rhythmic diversity and lyrical depth similar to Byrne’s work.
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Tracklist

New here? Start with "Independence Day".

  • 1 Independence Day Start here 5:45
  • 2 Make Believe Mambo 5:23
  • 3 The Call of the Wild 4:53
  • 4 Dirty Old Town 4:13
  • 5 The Rose Tattoo 3:51
  • 6 Loco De Amor 3:46
  • 7 The Dream Police 3:00
  • 8 Don't Want to Be Part of Your World 4:58
  • 9 Marching Through the Wilderness 4:30
  • 10 Good and Evil 4:35
  • 11 Lie to Me 3:37
  • 12 Office Cowboy 3:41
  • 13 Women vs. Men 4:06
  • 14 Carnival Eyes 4:04
  • 15 I Know Sometimes a Man Is Wrong 3:11

What to play next

This album is considered a Breakthrough in David Byrne's catalog. First solo album post-Talking Heads, gaining significant attention and wider recognition.

Uh-Oh
Listen next

Uh-Oh

1992

Continues the eclectic sound and rhythmic diversity found in Rei Momo.
Music for "The Knee Plays"
Go back to

Music for "The Knee Plays"

1985

Sets a foundation of Byrne's experimental approach before diving into world influences.
Full David Byrne discography Where to start with David Byrne Artists like David Byrne
alternative rock new wave

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata