LP SEALED TALKING HEADS TRUE STORIES 1986 SIRE ORIG PRESS NOT CUTOUT HYPE STKRS

$

50

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The LP True Stories (Sire – 1-25512) by Talking Heads was released in 1986. It serves as the official studio album companion to the film of the same name, which was directed by Talking Heads frontman David Byrne.

Here's a brief summary:

• Film Connection (but not a traditional soundtrack): The album features songs performed by Talking Heads that were written by David Byrne for the True Stories film. However, it's crucial to note that these are Talking Heads' studio versions of the songs, with David Byrne on lead vocals. In the film itself, many of these songs were performed by the actors playing the characters, lending an amateurish, folksy charm. A separate soundtrack album, Sounds from True Stories, featuring incidental music from the film and some of the actors' performances, was released by David Byrne later.

• David Byrne's Vision: The album is heavily influenced by David Byrne's fascination with Americana, quirky small-town life, and the "celebration of specialness" found in everyday people. The songs reflect the vignettes and characters from the film, which explores a fictional Texas town called Virgil.

• Musical Style: True Stories sees Talking Heads move further into a more accessible, pop-oriented sound compared to their earlier, more experimental work. While still retaining their signature art-rock and new wave elements, the album incorporates more straightforward rock, country, and gospel influences. It features strong melodies, catchy choruses, and a generally more upbeat, albeit sometimes subtly ironic, tone.

• Key Tracks:

  • "Wild Wild Life": The album's biggest hit single, an energetic and highly popular track with a memorable music video (which was an extended sequence from the film).

  • "Love For Sale": A direct, almost rockabilly-tinged opener that critiques consumerism.

  • "Puzzlin' Evidence": Features gospel choir elements and a driving beat.

  • "Radio Head": (Yes, this is where the band Radiohead got their name!) A more laid-back, accordion-driven track.

  • "City of Dreams": A powerful, atmospheric ballad that closes the album.

• Band Dynamics: While credited to Talking Heads, the material on True Stories was almost entirely written by David Byrne. This led to some internal tensions within the band, as it felt more like a Byrne solo project with the rest of the band playing the role of backing musicians, especially following the success of the Stop Making Sense concert film which heavily featured Byrne.

In essence, the True Stories LP is a unique entry in the Talking Heads discography. It's a collection of David Byrne's songs written for his film, performed by the band with a more pop-friendly, Americana-infused sound. It features several memorable tracks and serves as a musical portrait of the eccentric characters and small-town charm explored in the accompanying movie.

LISTEN   “Wild Wild Life”

• 1986 LP Released on Sire Records # 1-25512 (Stereo).    .
• This is a Sealed Album and will Provide you with Brilliant Sound Quality from your Player. 2 inch shrink split at center top edge which caused foxing on the same spot of the cover. Slight wear by upper spine. No cut out marks. 2 hype stickers on front.