TALKING HEADS TRUE STORIES 12" Vinyl LP Album

Talking Heads' 1986 album "True Stories" encapsulates the eclectic spirit of the 1980s. Produced by the band and recorded at New York's Sigma Sound, the album, made in Italy, blends folk-rock and electronic elements. Lyrically, it delves into everyday American life, complemented by a simultaneous film release. This sonic journey, with international influences, cements Talking Heads' legacy as pioneers in the era's music and visual landscape.

 

TALKING HEADS True Stories 12" LP Vinyl Album front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

"True Stories" Album Description:

In the vibrant landscape of 1980s music, Talking Heads carved out a distinctive niche with their seventh studio album, "True Stories." Released in 1986, this album not only stands as a testament to the band's musical prowess but is also intricately tied to the era in which it was created.

The Time Period: 1986

The mid-1980s were marked by a fusion of musical genres, the rise of MTV, and a cultural landscape that embraced both innovation and nostalgia. It was a period where artists experimented with synthesizers, electronic sounds, and visually striking music videos. Talking Heads, always known for their eclectic approach, thrived in this environment, and "True Stories" is a reflection of the era's sonic diversity.

Production and Collaborators

Produced by Talking Heads themselves, the album showcases the band's autonomy and creative control. The collaboration with sound/recording engineers Eric E.T. Thorngren and Melanie West adds a layer of technical expertise to the production, contributing to the album's polished and intricate sound.

Recording at Sigma Sound, New York

The choice of Sigma Sound in New York as the recording location is noteworthy. Sigma Sound was a renowned studio, known for its role in shaping the sound of numerous iconic artists. The decision to record there reflects the band's commitment to capturing a distinct sonic atmosphere for "True Stories."

International Flavor: "1986 Made in Italy"

The global nature of the music industry is highlighted by the fact that the album was made in Italy. This international collaboration echoes the interconnectedness of the music world, with artists seeking inspiration and collaboration beyond their home borders.

Musical Influences and Themes

"True Stories" is not just an album; it's a sonic narrative that weaves together diverse influences. From folk-rock to electronic elements, the album encompasses a broad spectrum of sounds. Lyrically, it explores the quirks and idiosyncrasies of American life, drawing inspiration from the everyday stories that make up the fabric of society.

Music Genre:

New Wave 
Album Production information: 

The album: "TALKING HEADS - True Stories Philippines" was produced by: Talking Heads

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Eric E.T. Thorngren and Melanie West

This album was recorded at: Sigma Sound, New York,

Record Label & Catalognr:

EMI 2406121

Media Format:

33rpm 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1986 Made in Italy
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: TALKING HEADS - True Stories
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • David Byrne – guitar, vocals

      David Byrne a Scottish-American musician, singer, songwriter, and artist. He is best known as the lead singer and principal songwriter of the American rock band Talking Heads, which was active between 1975 and 1991. Byrne's solo career began in the early 1980s, and he has released several albums and collaborated with various other musicians and artists. He has also been involved in various film, theater, and art projects throughout his career. In addition to his music, Byrne is known for his eclectic and experimental approach to songwriting and his distinctive stage presence. He has won several awards and accolades throughout his career, including an Academy Award for his work on the film "The Last Emperor" in 1988.

  • Chris Frantz – drums
  • Tina Weymouth – bass, backing vocals
  • Jerry Harrison – keyboards, guitar, backing vocals
  • Bert Cross Choir – vocals on "Puzzlin' Evidence"
  • Tommy Camfield – fiddle on "People Like Us"
  • Paulinho Da Costa – percussion on "Papa Legba", "Radio Head", and "People Like Us"
  • Steve Jordan – accordion on "Radio Head"
  • St. Thomas Aquinas Elementary School Choir – vocals on "Hey Now"
  • Tommy Morrell – pedal steel guitar on "People Like Us" and "City of Dreams"
Complete Track-listing of the album "TALKING HEADS - True Stories"

The detailed tracklist of this record "TALKING HEADS - True Stories" is:

    Tracklisting
  1. "Love for Sale" – 4:30
  2. "Puzzlin' Evidence" – 5:23
  3. "Hey Now" – 3:42
  4. "Papa Legba" – 5:54
  5. "Wild Wild Life" – 3:39
  6. "Radio Head" – 3:14
  7. "Dream Operator" – 4:39
  8. "People Like Us" – 4:26
  9. "City of Dreams" – 5:06

Index of TALKING HEADS Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

TALKING HEADS - Fear of Music (German and French Versions) 12" Vinyl LP
TALKING HEADS - Fear of Music (German and French Versions) album front cover vinyl record

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)
TALKING HEADS - Little Creatures
TALKING HEADS - Little Creatures album front cover vinyl record

 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 LP
TALKING HEADS - Naked
TALKING HEADS - Naked album front cover vinyl record

Fly / 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 LP
TALKING HEADS - Speaking Tongues
TALKING HEADS - Speaking Tongues (1983, Germany) album front cover vinyl record

SIRE 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 LP
TALKING HEADS - Stop Making Sense
TALKING HEADS - Stop Making Sense album front cover vinyl record

EMI 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 LP
TALKING HEADS - True Stories (Philippines and Italian Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
TALKING HEADS - True Stories (Philippines and Italian Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Talking 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)