"Little Creatures" is the sixth album by Talking Heads, released in 1985. 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) in The Village Voice Pazz & Jop critics poll. The cover art was created by outsider artist Howard Finster, and was selected as album cover of the year by Rolling Stone magazine.
In the vibrant landscape of alternative rock, Talking Heads carved a niche for themselves with their groundbreaking and experimental approach to music. One of their standout albums, "Little Creatures," released in 1985, showcases the band's ability to reinvent their sound while maintaining their distinctive artistic vision. Through the fusion of Americana themes and country-inspired elements, Talking Heads created an album that captivated both critics and fans alike. From its evocative cover art by Howard Finster to its chart-topping success, "Little Creatures" remains a testament to the band's creative prowess.
Exploring Americana:
"Little Creatures" delves into the heart of Americana, a genre rooted in the cultural fabric of the United States. By incorporating themes that celebrate American life and exploring the complexities of the nation, Talking Heads offered a unique perspective on the American experience. The album's lyrics touch upon subjects such as suburban life, relationships, and the struggle for identity in a rapidly changing world.
Country Music Influence:
To further enrich their exploration of Americana, Talking Heads embraced elements of country music on "Little Creatures." This departure from their previous sound showcased the band's versatility and willingness to experiment with new musical styles. The inclusion of steel guitar, a hallmark of country music, added a distinct texture to the album, evoking a sense of nostalgia and lending an authentic country flavor to many tracks.
Critical Acclaim and Cultural Impact:
Upon its release, "Little Creatures" received widespread acclaim, solidifying Talking Heads' position as innovators in the alternative rock scene. The album's unique blend of Americana and country influences struck a chord with audiences, garnering significant commercial success. It reached the top 20 on the Billboard 200 chart and produced several hit singles, including "And She Was" and "Road to Nowhere."
In addition to its chart success, "Little Creatures" was recognized for its artistic merit. The album was voted as the best album of 1985 in The Village Voice Pazz & Jop critics poll, a testament to its cultural impact and critical acclaim. The album cover, featuring a vivid and imaginative painting by outsider artist Howard Finster, was hailed as Rolling Stone magazine's album cover of the year, further solidifying the album's artistic significance.
Music Genre: New Wave, Post Punk |
Album Production Information: Recorded and mixed by Eric E.T. Thorngren at Sigma Sound New York Album Cover painting by Rev. Howard Finster. Photography Neil Selkirk |
Record Label Information: EMI 1C 064-24 0352 |
Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1985 Made in Germany / Holland |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: TALKING HEADS - Little Creatures |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "TALKING HEADS - Little Creatures" |
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "TALKING HEADS - Little Creatures" |
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Album Back Cover Photo of "TALKING HEADS - Little Creatures" |
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |
The Talking Heads were a rock band formed in New York City in 1975. The band consisted of David Byrne (vocals, guitar), Chris Frantz (drums), Tina Weymouth (bass), and Jerry Harrison (guitar, keyboards, and vocals). They were known for their eclectic and experimental style, which incorporated elements of punk, funk, world music, and avant-garde art. They released several critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.
David Byrne a musician, singer, songwriter, record producer, and artist who is best known as the frontman of the rock band Talking Heads. He was born in Dumbarton, Scotland, and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Byrne co-founded Talking Heads in 1975 with Chris Frantz, Tina Weymouth, and Jerry Harrison. He was the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for the band, which became known for its eclectic and experimental style. After the band's disbandment in 1991, Byrne continued to release solo albums, collaborate with other musicians and artists, and pursue other creative projects. He is also known for his contributions to the world of contemporary art and his work as an author and film director.
Chris Frantz the drummer and co-founder of the rock band Talking Heads. He was born in Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and raised in New York City. Frantz formed Talking Heads in 1975 with David Byrne, Tina Weymouth, and Jerry Harrison. He played drums and percussion in the band throughout its career. After the band's disbandment in 1991, Frantz continued to play music and has been a part of several other music projects. He and his wife, Tina Weymouth, co-founded the Tom Tom Club, which released several albums throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. He also worked as a DJ and producer.
Tina Weymouth the bassist and co-founder of the rock band Talking Heads. She was born in Coronado, California, and raised in New York City. She formed Talking Heads in 1975 with David Byrne, Chris Frantz, and Jerry Harrison. As the bassist of the band, she played an important role in the development of the band's eclectic and experimental style. After the band's disbandment in 1991, Weymouth continued to play music and has been a part of several other music projects. She and her husband, Chris Frantz, co-founded the Tom Tom Club, which released several albums throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. She also worked as a DJ and producer.
Jerry Harrison the guitarist, keyboardist and vocalist of the rock band Talking Heads. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. He joined Talking Heads in 1977 as a replacement for the band's original guitarist, Jerry Harrison played guitar and keyboards and sang backing vocals in the band, which became known for its eclectic and experimental style. After the band's disbandment in 1991, Harrison continued to play music, produce and collaborate with other musicians. He has released several solo albums and collaborated with various musicians and bands, such as The Modern Lovers and Jonathan Richman. He has also been involved in the production of several music records and has been active as a record producer, songwriter, and remixer.
