Talking Heads - Little Creatures (1985)

Following the two darker and much more funk orientated albums Speaking in Tongues and Remain in Light, this album is large departure from anything else Talking Heads head done before. The sound is far more simple, yet just as sharp as their earlier work. The lyrics are also a lot less cynical and lead singer David Byrne has his nicest (if still rather strange) singing voice on show. Little Creatures oozes style and confidence, it shines out good feelings in a completely honest way, something not very easily done, if ever. Country elements are strong throughout the album, combined with the twinkling guitars and harmonies it almost sounds like 60s psychedelic pop but created by a post-punk band in the 80s.

The opening track 'And She Was' is a straight forward pop number and starts the album perfectly. You won't find the usual paranoia and claustrophobia of a Talking Heads album here, just smooth music and good vibes. The child-like illustration on the album cover and the multi-coloured outfits worn by the band on the reverse signal that the band are ready to show their sunny side. For an album that is 25 years old this year it sounds surprisingly fresh, unlike a lot of music from the era, which is an achievement in itself. Chilled out, but not too sloppy. Happy, but not too proud. Sharp, but not so sharp that they cut themsevles. Little Creatures is a celebration of human spirit via Talking Heads' post-ironic positivist attitude to the world. Sometimes its fun just to sit there smiling instead of thinking too much, and its nice to have this album around with you when you do.

Label: EMI

Tracklist:
1. And She Was
2. Give Me Back My Name
3. Creatures of Love
4. The Lady Don't Mind
5. Perfect World
6. Stay Up Late
7. Walk It Down
8. Television
9. Road To Nowhere