Speaking in Tongues
Talking Heads · 1983
41 min · 9 tracks · new wave · post-punk
A vibrant blend of funk-infused rhythms, intricate guitar work, and David Byrne's eccentric vocal delivery.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady rhythmic exploration vibrant, engaging soundscapes dynamic emotional shifts
- Context
- By 1983, Talking Heads were at a pivotal point in their career with 'Speaking in Tongues,' their fifth studio album. Following the commercial success of 'Remain in Light' (1980), this release explored more accessible pop structures while maintaining their avant-garde essence. The album marked a shift towards a more dance-oriented sound, influenced by the burgeoning New Wave scene.
- If you like
- new wave, post-punk
Speaking in Tongues is an album by Talking Heads, released in 1983. A vibrant blend of funk-infused rhythms, intricate guitar work, and David Byrne's eccentric vocal delivery. 'Speaking in Tongues' was notable for its commercial success, reaching No. 15 on the Billboard 200 and yielding the hit single 'Burning Down the House,' which became one of their signature songs. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of genres and helped solidify Talking Heads' role as pioneers in the post-punk movement, influencing numerous artists in the years to come. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Speaking in Tongues sound like?
A vibrant blend of funk-infused rhythms, intricate guitar work, and David Byrne's eccentric vocal delivery. Rooted in new wave and post-punk.
What makes Speaking in Tongues by Talking Heads notable?
'Speaking in Tongues' was notable for its commercial success, reaching No. 15 on the Billboard 200 and yielding the hit single 'Burning Down the House,' which became one of their signature songs. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of genres and helped solidify Talking Heads' role as pioneers in the post-punk movement, influencing numerous artists in the years to come. By 1983, Talking Heads were at a pivotal point in their career with 'Speaking in Tongues,' their fifth studio album. Following the commercial success of 'Remain in Light' (1980), this release explored more accessible pop structures while maintaining their avant-garde essence. The album marked a shift towards a more dance-oriented sound, influenced by the burgeoning New Wave scene.
Who is Speaking in Tongues for?
Speaking in Tongues works well if you're into steady rhythmic exploration, vibrant, engaging soundscapes and dynamic emotional shifts.
How many songs are on Speaking in Tongues?
Speaking in Tongues has 9 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Burning Down the House Standout 4:03
- 2 Making Flippy Floppy 4:36
- 3 Girlfriend Is Better Standout 4:24
- 4 Slippery People 3:31
- 5 I Get Wild/Wild Gravity 4:11
- 6 Swamp 5:16
- 7 Moon Rocks 5:06
- 8 Pull Up the Roots 5:09
- 9 This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody) Standout 4:56
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