Talking Heads' 1979 release, "Fear of Music," epitomized the evolving sound of late 1970s new wave music. Produced with avant-garde influence by Brian Eno, the album blended punk, funk, and art rock. Standout tracks like "Life During Wartime" and "I Zimbra," inspired by Dadaist poetry, showcased the band's departure from conventional structures. The album's impact, though modest on charts, resonates as a pivotal work in experimental music history.
This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
The release of Talking Heads' "Fear of Music" 12" Vinyl LP Album in 1979 marked a significant moment in the landscape of new wave music. As the band's third studio album, it not only showcased their evolving sound but also solidified their status as innovators within the music industry.
The time period of the late 1970s was characterized by a musical climate undergoing rapid transformation. The punk rock movement had laid the groundwork for a more experimental and diverse approach to music. Against this backdrop, Talking Heads emerged with their unique blend of post-punk, new wave, and art rock elements.
"Fear of Music" reflected the band's willingness to push boundaries and explore unconventional sonic territories. Released during a time when the music industry was undergoing a shift towards more eclectic and experimental genres, the album captured the zeitgeist of the late 1970s.
Production-wise, the album was a testament to Talking Heads' collaboration with producer Brian Eno. Eno, known for his work with Roxy Music and as a pioneer in ambient music, brought his avant-garde sensibilities to the project. The result was a sonically rich and textured album that transcended the conventional boundaries of rock music.
The album's standout tracks, "Life During Wartime" and "I Zimbra," further exemplified Talking Heads' departure from conventional song structures. "Life During Wartime" blended punk energy with funk-infused rhythms, creating a politically charged and danceable anthem. Meanwhile, "I Zimbra" took inspiration from Dadaist poet Hugo Ball's work, infusing the album with a surreal and poetic dimension.
In terms of chart performance, "Fear of Music" reached #21 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart, underscoring its commercial success. The singles from the album, although not massive chart-toppers, made their mark on various charts, with "I Zimbra" reaching #28 on Club Play Singles.
Music Genre: New Wave, Post Punk Rock |
Collector's info: Structured embossed album cover design resembling a black metal floor tiles. This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by The Talking Heads |
Album Production Information: The album: "Fear of Music" was produced by: Brian Eno and the Talking Heads |
Record Label & Catalognr: SIRE 200 880 |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 200 gram |
Year & Country: 1979 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Talking Heads Fear of Music |
|
Complete Track Listing of: "Fear of Music" |
The Song/tracks on "Fear of Music" are
|
Record Label Details: SIRE 200 880
Talking Heads' "Fear of Music," released in 1979, epitomizes late '70s musical innovation. Produced by Brian Eno and the band, the French release in August 1979 added a European touch.
Fear of Music - German Release Fear of Music - French Edition)EMI 1C 064-24 0352 , 1985 , Germany
The album examined themes of Americana and incorporated elements of country music, with many songs featuring the steel guitar. It was voted as the best album of the year (1985)
Little Creatures 12" Vinyl LPFly / Sire Records 1-2565 , 1988
"Naked," the Talking Heads' 1988 album, marked the apex of their musical experimentation, heavily infused with African influences. As David Byrne assumed greater control, the album became a swan song
Naked 12" Vinyl LPSIRE 92-3883 , 1983 , Germany
The album was a commercial breakthrough that produced the band's first (and only) American Top 10 hit, "Burning Down the House", which was accompanied by a promotional video.
Speaking Tongues (1983, Germany) 12" Vinyl LPEMI 1C 064-24 0243 , 1983 , EEC
Released in 1984, "Stop Making Sense" is a live album by the American rock band Talking Heads. Renowned for their innovative sound and distinctive artistic approach
Stop Making Sense 12" Vinyl LPTalking Heads' 1986 album "True Stories" and its accompanying film, directed by David Byrne, marked a pivotal moment in the band's career.
True Stories (1986, Italy) True Stories (1986, Philippines)