What makes Speak by The Roches notable?

The album received positive critical reception, with notable praise for its quirky lyrical content and rich harmonies from outlets like Rolling Stone. Speak also contributed to the growing visibility of women in folk rock during the late '80s, influencing subsequent generations of female singer-songwriters who admired The Roches' blend of wit and sincerity. Released in 1989, Speak was The Roches' fifth studio album, following their acclaimed 1985 record, Can We Go Home Now. At this point in their career, the trio had established a distinct sound that blended folk and rock elements while showcasing their intricate vocal harmonies. Speak continued to build on their unique storytelling style, demonstrating their growth as artists while maintaining their signature charm.

Speak works well if you're into playful lyrics with humorous twists, reflective moments of gentle introspection and warm harmonies for cozy evenings.

How many songs are on Speak?

Speak has 14 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Speak

The Roches · 1989

54 min · 14 tracks · folk music

Folk harmonies intertwine with playful lyrics, exploring personal and societal themes with both humor and poignancy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Speak — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its introspective lyrics and delicate melodies, establishing a thematic core about communication and expression.
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The Anti-Sex Backlash of the 80's — This track stands out for its sharp social commentary delivered with humor, cleverly critiquing societal attitudes toward sexuality in a decade marked by contradictions.
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I Love My Mom — A poignant tribute to motherhood that balances heartfelt sentiment with lightheartedness, showcasing The Roches' ability to combine emotion with clever lyricism.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful lyrics with humorous twists
reflective moments of gentle introspection
warm harmonies for cozy evenings
light-hearted storytelling with depth

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant high-energy tracks
prefer straightforward, single-focused albums

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1989, Speak was The Roches' fifth studio album, following their acclaimed 1985 record, Can We Go Home Now. At this point in their career, the trio had established a distinct sound that blended folk and rock elements while showcasing their intricate vocal harmonies. Speak continued to build on their unique storytelling style, demonstrating their growth as artists while maintaining their signature charm.
Stylistic neighbors: Simon & Garfunkel· The Waifs· First Aid Kit

Tracklist

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

1 Speak 4:18
2 Big Nuthin' 4:42
3 Cloud Dancing 2:52
4 Everyone Is Good 3:54
5 In the World 2:36
6 I Love My Mom 4:03
7 Losing Our Job 4:27
8 Person with a Past 5:04
9 The Anti-Sex Backlash of the 80's 2:36
10 Easy 3:33
11 Nocturne 4:46
12 Merciful God 4:12
13 Broken Places 4:47
14 Feeling Is Mutual 2:41

What to play next

Listen next

A Dove

1992

Go back to

Another World

1985

Full The Roches discography Artists like The Roches

folk rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata