Reviews (page 2 of 12)
I've always thought the Pretenders were good but hadn't listened to an album of theirs before. I was impressed. Some punk-like sensibilities with actual musical talent, catchy songs, unexpected rhythmic changes and Chrissie Hynde has a cool rock voice. The album didn't have any skips and maintained interest through the end. Listened to it a couple of times. 4.5 rounded up.
Jesus is that a good album
This band is ... fun. The guitars are phenomenal. I had no idea they were a British group, and that Hynde lived in London. I had always associated The Pretenders with Northeast Ohio, but the origins of this and are pretty fascinating.
*****
Perfect
Lowkey razor-sharp.
This is such a good album, really strong songs in the main and some surprising tracks which I liked more than the big chart hits like up the neck, great riff.
Love this album!
What a debut! One of the great rock voices front of the mix from track 1. Able to communicate so many emotions- love, lust, anger, loneliness, desperation. Often all in one song. Side 1 is a lot of fun but side 2 is almost flawless. Lovers of Today may be their best ever track? Only downside was Space Invader?
Ousado! O álbum que eu disse "graças a Deus" por ter uma vocalista mulher, estava sedenta por uma banda nessa formação! The Pretenders, disco de estreia da banda entrou na lista de debuts que deram MUITO certo, pois acertou em cheio em questão de atitude, composição, e mistura de gêneros que trás um Pop meio Punk meio New Wave que eu AMEI. Além da voz da vocalista Chrissie Hynde que UAU, que atitude!! Fiquei hipnotizada escutando as faixas e a composição dos instrumentos que, tinha casado tão bem com a voz e estilo da banda. Pesquisando vi que infelizmente, o guitarrista James Honeyman-Scott e o baixista Pete Farndon morreram de overdose com menos de um ano de diferença, e peguei pra escutar algumas faixas fora desse álbum e realmente da pra notar diferença desse para outros discos da banda. O álbum conseguiu o que nenhum outro tinha conseguido até agora, me fazer amar o álbum inteiro. Masss como é um "tradição" escolher as mais mais vou colocar aqui: "Stop Your Sobbing" (cover do The Kinks, onde a Chrissie teve um relacionamento e filho com o vocalista Ray Davies!!!) "Up the Neck", "Kid" (letra com storytelling emocionante) e "Brass in Pocket" (que ela não gostava!!!tipo que?), além das outras musicas que sinceramente? amei todas. Foi muito dificil escolher só algumas pois esse álbum inteiro tem uma trajetória interessantíssima e qualidade impecável para um álbum debut. The Pretenders, você ganhou meu coração.
Es algo que no solía escuchar pero aún así es algo que cada tanto me gusta
5: Precious, Up the Neck, The Wait, Private Life, Brass In Pocket, Private Life, Brass In Pocket, Lovers Of Today, Mystery Achievement 4. The Phone Call, Tattooed Love Boys, Stop Your Sobbing, Kid, 2. Space Invader Yep, 5 "brass in pocket" stars
Muy punk, primera vez que escucho ésta banda. Me encantó
This is why I'm doing this. I had never heard of the band or the album, but it was great throughout. Feels way ahead of it's time and not at all from 1979.
Pretenders are one of the first successful bands of the 80s, this being their debut album that came out on January 11, 1980. In that, it's very much a 70s album at heart with big singles you will hear on every classic rock station to ever exist because there's only two corporations that controls all the music radio in every station in America, and every metro market must have you hear Brass in Pocket and Back on the Chain Gang among several others, or you will fucking die. That said, Pretenders as a band are good music that's fairly ageless in their style and approach. Just that you're going to hear them on the radio. A lot. Pretenders, the album, is an example of why you don't judge a book by its cover. I have nothing wrong with Brass in Pocket, it's cromulent. But I was fooled because every other song on their debut is a total banger in different ways. We got some punk energy, some cool dark jamming with some synths. A good start for 80s music and/or final spark of the 70s. With the Pretenders, nothing is as it seems.
Easy 5. Where has this been all my life? (The answer: right under my nose!) Not just dynamic and fun but also well written and tosses out fantastic musical ideas left and right and never lets them overstay their welcome.
I wore this album out in high school. Classic.
Yeah
I have a funny relationship with this album (like a lot of albums from late 70s/early 80s, I guess). My first exposure was the song "Brass in Pocket," which was a hit, but I didn't love, at first. It stood out, for sure. But my teenage male suspicion of something that seemed *different* kicked in, I guess (just as it did at first with Talking Heads, Elvis Costello, B-52s, etc.). But then, in college, at FSU, I think, one of my buddies had this album, which explains why I never owned it: because I taped it off of him. Except I didn't tape the whole album, only the songs I liked the best. Which still kind of makes sense to me now. Because I REALLY LOVE a few of these songs, 5+ ratings for: "Precious," "Stop Your Sobbing" (a Kinks cover - I'm sure we'll get the Kinks, at some point), and "Kid." Next best song is probably "Mystery Achievement," and I've come to appreciate "Brass in Pocket" (mostly just that it's over-exposed, at this point), and "Tattooed Love Boys" is kinda basic, but fun. So that's 6 of the 12 tracks; the other 6 are kind of forgettable. But, as I said, maybe unfair, cuz those are (more or less) the songs that I didn't choose to tape off of the album. But, yeah, I'd probably do it the same now. Actually, though, "The Wait" isn't bad, and "Private Life" has a decent reggae groove (reggae was a big influence in the UK around this time, probably due to lots of Jamaican immigrants -- The Police, The Clash, etc), and provides a useful contrast to the other tunes. So, yeah, I think I can give this album 5 stars, even though a few of the songs are forgettable -- because the rest (8 out of 12) range from very good to really great.
This album is fabulous. It's so enjoyable and fun, and with so many great songs that, as a musical project, it's a very very good one. I've loved listening to it, and Pretenders is a band that has a very nice rock touch, giving it sometimes elements from the pop and punk genres. But being very original, with their own particular sound, which is great. So, this album is a delight, and has many different sounds, which is something that has surprised me. The songs flow pretty well, and this makes the album feel very lively and fun, but still being surprising.
banger
I loved this. I only knew a few songs from album. So bratty in a great way
Very good stuff. Chrissie Hynde is a great songwriter, and I'll always have a soft spot for that certain singing voice a lot of women in rock had in the late 70s going into the 80s (ex. Patti Smith, the Wilson sisters/Heart). I also have a very soft spot for the chorus-heavy guitar tones of the same time period, which both Hynde and Honeyman-Scott deliver in spades. 9/10.
9/10 Very consistent album without a single weak song, Chrissie Hynde's vocals are lovely.
Still one of my personal favorites. Nearly every song is five stars!
Nice.
Very good. Exceeded my expectationd (and those were already pretty high). Chrissie Hynde is great. And so is the rhythm section. Lyrics were also ok. Really enjoyed this one.
Genial. Un rock pop muy sabroso, muy fresco, que por momentos me recordó a Pulp. Un temazo tras otro. Solo conocía la de Tattooed love boys pero amé casi todas. Cinco estrellas.
Great surprise!
Solid album, will revisit.
Banger
banda super nostálgica, me gustó
What a powerful debut! Hynde it’s amazing
Boy did that take me back. I don't know how the 2018 remastering improved it, but I really enjoyed listening to it after all this time. Their instrumental "Space Invader" took me by surprise. Maybe I've never heard the whole album before. I'm glad I got this chance.
I liked stop your sobbing and Cuban slide. She kinda sounds like Joni mitchell
The Runaways meets The Cars, loved it!
Oui, ça c'est très cool
As debut albums go this takes some beating but I'm biased, aged 13 with money from my paper round this is the 1st album I ever bought. Still play it and play it loud! Love it
En unos de los momentos musicalmente más efervescentes del pasado siglo llega Chrissie Hynde y amigos a ofrecernos una inteligente mezcla de punk, pop y rock justo cuando el punk todavía coexistía con los primeros nuevos románticos. Y ahí es donde The Pretenders han tenido más sentido y más éxito. Recuerdo haber escuchado “Brass In The Pocket” en Radio 3 la primera vez y enseguida sentir que eso era algo especial, novedoso (cómo parecía casi todo lo que se publicaba por aquel entonces) y muy pegadizo. No repitieron la frescura de este primer disco más adelante, pero Chrissie sí se convirtió en la dama del rock que hoy es.
I wonder what the 80s thought the 80s were going to be like after hearing this album. There is so much energy and vitality to this album, and Chrissie effortlessly moves across her vocal range with saucy confidence. I mean, if she'd ask, I'd join the movement... before waiting to hear what it's all about. I was shocked when I finally got to "Brass in Pocket," which is great, but not super representative of the rock joy in this album.
Bad ass
Great album. Good tracks. Easy listening but engaging. Varied enough. Will easily listen to it a lot.
liked the rock
Prefacing this, "Private Life" has been one of my favourite tracks for years, especially after I started exploring their discography in the wake of seeing them perform at the Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert. I forgot how different each track, in terms of it's harmonies and tone, are from each other. Immediately, I remember "Tattooed Love Boys", with it's guitar sound almost glockenspiel-like. Hynde's delivery of lyrics from track to track always keep it fun, even when more serious and emotional lyrics are in play. Overall, a really great debut album for The Pretenders, showcasing Hynde's unique voice and lyrics as well as the bands ability to pull in influences from Punk, Rock and New-Wave all into one. The moody bassline at the start of Space Invader instantly won my heart, and even more so with the final sounds being straight from the 1978 game itself. "Brass in Pocket", at this point, has become a deeply rooted classic in British music history and for good reason too. Everything from the instruments, lyrics and Hynde's voice lends itself to the swagger need to back up the title of the song.
5/5 my first five star album in this project. I loved it- the first sing, Precious was new to me. I loved the “fuck off” near the end of the song. What an incredible debut album
A strong debut album for one of the better groups in the '80s. A perfect melting pot of rock, punk and New Wave.
I think this will be my first 5 rating on this project. In reality I'd give it 4.5. I knew nothing of the Pretenders but really loved this album.
Classic. Heavier than expected
10/10 Some way my tyle of music
So where has this been all my life. Oh, right there and I was not paying attention. Great stuff. I have a lot of catching up to do!!
Yaas
Great album and a great introduction to the Pretenders as a first time listener (aside from the obvious hits they've had). Loved the first half of the album a lot and will listen again. Chrissie Hynde is a wonderful singer and Martin Chambers drumming is fantastic.
Vibes from the smiths, talking heads, sex pistols and even the police all around, one of the best albums heard recently and very underrated
Punk adjacent rock n roll
One of the best debut albums of all time. Hynde is so damn good here: mean, feral, tender, snarly, sweet. Tight and relentless.
I don’t listen to this album half enough. It is an incredible record, one of the best of the punk/new wave era. The songs are excellent, not just the hits - “Brass In Pocket”, “Stop Your Sobbing”, “Kid” - but from opener “Precious” through “Tattooed Love Boys”, instrumental “Space Invader”, “The Wait”, “Private Life” the quality is consistent. There is a straight line from the Byrds, Big Star, The Kinks (covered here and Hynde was later to become Mrs Ray Davies) - The Pretenders were one of the great power-pop bands. Chrissie Hynde’s voice is distinctive, sometimes laconic, sometimes confrontational, sometimes soft and seductive. The rhythm section is strong with the bass high in the mix. And for me, the star is James Honeyman-Scott’s guitar playing. His rhythm playing is superb and his lead is stunning, particularly on “Kid” which has one of the best lead breaks in pop music. His playing always suits the song like in the muted choppy percussive guitar on “The Wait”. The next album, Pretenders II, is almost as good, and there are great songs throughout their discography but the deaths of both Honeyman-Scott, to a drugs-related heart-attack, and bassist Pete Farndon, who had been dismissed from the band and died the flooding year, robbed us of one of the great punk-pop lineups.
From the moment the The Pretenders' eponymous debut album kicks off with the track "Precious," it establishes itself as a high-quality record, utterly devoid of any dull moments or weak tracks. I admit that I previously hadn't considered it "essential", perhaps because its effortless quality and clarity of production make it so easy to listen to. The band is exceptional, the production is crystal clear, and the vocals are singularly distinctive and intriguing. However, approaching this album now with a critical ear, I realize I’ve been doing it a disservice. It firmly sits on the cusp of a 4 or 5-star rating. As my reviews lean toward accentuating the positive, and given that this album introduced us to the wonderful Chrissie Hynde, I have no quibbles allocating the full 5 stars. Chrissie Hynde possesses one of the most unique voices in rock, showcasing a remarkable ability to shift between extremes: alluring yet self-assured, tough yet vulnerable, playful yet half-spoken, sultry, sweet, and wistful. Aside from "Brass in Pocket" my favourite track is "Lovers of Today" and it's primarily because of Hynde's vocals - they are captivating. It is a simply wonderful voice that brings a smile to my face. Side one 1 "Precious" (4/5) 2 "The Phone Call" (4/5) 3 "Up the Neck" (5/5) 4 "Tattooed Love Boys" (4/5) 5 "Space Invader" (5/5) 6 "The Wait" (4/5) 7 "Stop Your Sobbing" (5/5) Side two 1 "Kid" (5/5) 2 "Private Life" (4/5) 3 "Brass in Pocket" (5/5) 4 "Lovers of Today" (5/5) 5 "Mystery Achievement" (5/5) Total - 55 Average - 4.58 176/1001 96/176 albums reviewed were new to me.
Much of early British punk aimed to subvert rock and roll, while the Pretenders took the sounds and energy of punk while also embracing rock. The resulting hard-driving pop sounds resonated in 1980, taking the world by storm. Their debut album is a not just a classic of its time, it holds up equally well today. One of the things that I’ve always loved about the Pretenders is Chrisse Hynde. She is a bad ass and effortlessly cool. More relevantly, she has an amazing voice that is equally at home belting out wailers (first tunes on the album) as it with more subtle staccato phrasing (later tracks on the album). Her lyricism is also overtly erotic, which was brazen for the time, especially coming from a woman. In 1980, there were not many women fronting bands, there still are not, and Hynde demonstrated to the world this was BS. Woman can be just as bad ass as men, if not more so. Instrumentally, the Pretenders eschewed the keyboard and drum machines that were increasingly common at the time, sticking with a traditional rock band structure. Yet, the band still delivered music that sounded fresh, partly due to unique time signatures and party due to the blending of different genres. I really enjoyed revisiting this album. It’s a great album on its own and its importance in music history certainly warrants its place on this list. I first started listening to this album shortly after it was released and have continued to revisit it periodically over the years. It has been awhile, but this listen put the Pretenders back on rotation.
A wonderful album, I think it's their best!
one of the greatest albums of all time
I'd only heard the singles off this album and that's my loss because the rest of the album is much better than the singles. I love the punk vibe that's missing on the "radio friendly" singles.
Yeah that was good. Very listenable.
Looking back 46 years, it's easy to appreciate where this album sits and why it still sounds great. It draws on earlier-70s rock and roll, embraces the punk of the day, and foreshadows 80s alternative (check out the jangly guitar on multiple tracks). It's relentless, committed, and FUN.
I really liked this, very emo but smooth
Lovers of today- wow!
One of the best debut albums ever.
Loved it. 2nd half of the album was as great.
A great, fun listen. A non-gloomy post-punk/new wave band on top of their game. Not the greatest vocals, but perfect for this kind of music. The musicianship is top notch and the songwriting itself is great. Not the greatest album I've heard, but a strong 4.5/5!
refreshing and fun. high potential for being on my vinyl wishlist
Wow. Haven't listened to this in a LONG time. Banger after banger after banger. One of the more confident debits. Incredible album.
Loved this, will spin again.
Fantastic debut
I loved Kid and Brass in Pocket on first listen and already Up the Neck, Space Invader, Stop Your Sobbing, and Lovers of Today are growing on me. Precious and Private Life are impressive a bit theater-kid creepy. I especially like the occasional flatness of the lead singer’s voice and the ascending chimes in the chorus of Brass in Pocket.
🔝
com certeza se não fosse UMA vocalista, essa banda perderia todo o brilho. ela traz sex appeal que a produção necessita, tornando o álbum uma aventura suculenta. 5/5
This is great, no notes.
Masterpiece
One of the most iconic female voice of the 1980's
This album is so up my alley, I'm surprised I'd never listened to it before!
I only really knew Brass in Pocket from this album before so the punchier, punky nature of some of the tracks weren't what I was expecting. Tattooed Love Boys in particular was a blast, great attitude and guitar playing. Chrissie Hynde is a fantastic front woman as well, quality vocals and songwriting. Private Life is an intriguing song and shows confidence in lyric writing that I thought belied a debut album's lack of experience
Wow forgot how good this whole album is and that Kinks cover is too!
Man, I love this record! Chrissie Hynde has one of the best voices in the business. Kid, Brass, Tattooed Love Boys, Precious, Mystery Achievement, … pretty much every track is excellent. I’ll even forgive that they used a fade out on Kid which is one of the worst offenses that can be perpetrated on a record.
This was a really good listen. First time for me hearing the remaster of The Wait. that's good version.
A great album through. Some punk stuff, some pop stuff, a bit of new wave. All good.
When actual untalented pretenders like Courtney Barnett claim to a rock woman, Chrissie hynde laughs in her face. A great debut. A terrific band. Great songs. 4 stars.
Good grief, I don't think I can do this justice. As always happens with the pop music zeitgeist I was playing Mystery Achievement only the other day, for some reason that bassline popped into my head and I had to play it. I vividly remember turning up on a Monday 1980, Year 12 Economics and all any boy in that class could talk about was Sunday night's Countdown when Molly had played the film clip to Brass in Pocket. I can't do the moment the respect it deserves. Faaaark that song and Chrissie in the cafe! Faaaarrrrrrrkkkkkk! It was like time stopped and no one could be bothered to restart it, we all wanted to stay in that moment. Brass in Pocket, yep can remember the first time I heard/saw it, and yes indeedy do she was special alright, so special. And then buying the album, Precious coming right at you, a fucking Ray Davies cover cause she was fucking Ray Davies! Get out of the fucking way Ray! Up the Neck, the sweet delight of Kid! An absolutely cracking band who knew they were on a very good thing. The fucking bassplayer had been in the Bushwackers before this, how's that for landing on your feet! Wallah habibis I love this record. And Chrissie, what a supreme talent, as well as being a fantastic performer,singer songwriter, she gave women everywhere the chance to be who they want to be, and invented one of the best timeless rock and roll looks ever. Yes deadbeats I'll die to this one. "Got something...I'm winking at you"...I wish.
2025-09-18: A bit better rested than yesterday, physically worn out, listened to this during dinner after a shower. I enjoyed going through the album, found variety in the songs, was pleased by the singer's voice, felt like dancing around while sitting. I feel like the album is a solid 4, perhaps a touch above; and since I am feeling like going through it once more, I'll up the score a touch.
great punk vibes
Chrissie Hynde has one of the best voices I've heard. This is a great album
Great album!
Right from the off, the album is a great blend of punk guitars with a pop sensibility which evokes Blondie et al. Catchy tracks with enough about them to make them musically interesting. I had unfairly dismissed Pretenders as just another pop act of the era, but they're much more than that.
This is so kickass. Precious is incredible for an opener and a song I’ve never heard. I’m giving it 5 because I’ve never listened to a Pretenders album and now I feel like I’ve been missing out. Tattooed Love Boys? Incredible. And then obviously Brass in Pocket is a banger forever.
A really fun and original rock album
ЭТО ОЧЕНЬ КРУТОЙ АЛЬБОМ!!! КАК ЖЕ Я ЛЮБЛЮ ТАКОЕ НЬЮВЕЙВОВСКОЕ ПАНКОВОЕ ЖЕНСКОЕ!!!! КЛАСССССССССС!!!!!!
One of my favorites
10/10. lol can you guess my favorite one? Yes, Stop you sobbing lol. I like it when the kinks sing it too. All good. She’s so good
Absolutely slaps
How could I have forgotten how awesome this album is?!
Some of the British invasion with some of the clearest sounds. Their first album was one of the best, though I did listen to the remaster from 2018. And the demos. It's hard to tell how much of this is me purely enjoying it, or how it felt like putting on comfy old slippers and sitting in a well loved couch to relax
Has the style that became the signature of the 80s
Loved it
9/10 love me some catchy experimental punk!
Objectively I should give it a 4 star based on my current listen but this bring back so many memories that I had to give it the 5 star for nostalgia’s sake. It’s a crossroad of rock, punk and new wave that hit just when I was at the same crossroads for my musical styles.
Know it
Great album had since it came out
This album is so precious.
Fantastic debut album. Punk, post punk, new wave, all delivered with Chrissie Hynes’ signature avant guard delivery.
Brilliant!
Badass!! Love the guitar work, the overall punk attitude, the fifties like ballads with a sharper edge to them, the atmospheric reggae of Private Life. A perfect example of that sweet spot between punk, new wave and power pop.
♫ Listening to "Precious" by Pretenders (Pretenders (Expanded Edition) [2006 Remaster], 1979) ♫
3 hours was a bit too long to listen. But they are a great band!
Not only one of the best debut albums ever but one of the best rock albums ever. So many great songs on here and Chrissy Hynde's vocals and songwriting are incredible. The band, too, is tight and rocks hard. "Learning to Crawl" should be on this list too.
Nice
Pretenders are amazing. Chrissie Hynde has got the rock pedigree. She was everywhere you wish I/you could have been. She still rocks to this day and so does this album.
One of my all time favorite albums.
Chrissy is the Queen of Rock.
Great all around album. “ The Wait” is an all-timer!
Such a strong debut and a very enjoyable listening experience for the day. Chrissie Hynde is such a bad ass rock star! Need to listen to them much more than I do.
Great to revisit holds up really well. Punk energy with soul chord progressions and riffs thrown in.
I really have not had a thought to listen to the Pretenders. Shame on me. This was great.
Loved this album, great female vocal and good rock sound.
5/5 Velvet Snarls Because this album: • Rocks hard • Feels smart • And still hits like a sucker punch in 2025 It’s angry, clever, sexy, and a little tragic.
Real fun. Doesn't seem like they're pretending.
Pretenders is a fantastic debut album, and Chrissie Hynde proves herself to be a powerhouse. Her sharp lyrics and commanding presence drive the entire record. The album bursts with energy and raw emotion. Tracks like “Precious,” “Tattooed Love Boys,” “Up the Neck,” and “The Wait” are urgent, punchy, and packed with infectious riffs. The rhythm section is tight and relentless, giving the songs a powerful backbone. There’s also great variety here. Slower, more melodic tracks like “Kid,” “Brass in Pocket,” and “Mystery Achievement” show the band’s range and add emotional depth without losing momentum. This is an album I can happily return to again and again. Favourite song: “Brass in Pocket” — a confident, catchy standout. Least favourite: None. Every track feels essential to the whole. Album artwork: Cool and iconic — a great fit for the music inside.
I knew almost all of these songs. I hadn't realized that they are all on this debut album.
Album 769 of 1089 Pretenders - Pretenders (1979) Rating : 4.5 / 5 Great songs, instrumentation and performance. Nice mix of punk, rock & new wave. Should be in everyone's collection.
Not much to say this morning. American girl makes good in the UK & helps usher in punk. One of the greatest female fronted albums to ever come out of the 20th Century this doesn't rock hard for a girl it just ROCKS HARD AF. Punky new wave rock at its finest. NO COLLECTION IS COMPLETE WITHOUT IT.
My sister dubbed this album on cassette for me when we were teenagers. From that, The Pretenders were always a band I enjoyed. I can listen to pretty much over and over, so relistenability factors deep ointo my rating of this album. I think the only song I never was a big fan of was "Stop Your Sobbing", running all the words together Gottastopsobbingnow never really worked for me. The bass on "Mystery Achievement"... man, it's so good. Completely a classic for me. Glad I got to see the latest incarnation live recently.
I knew i liked brass in pocket, but this album had so many great songs i've never heard before.
In my top ten. One of those albums that reveals something you never heard before every time you listen. This time, I am hearing the guitar solos in "Private Life," where in the past I haven't paid much attention to this song. Masterful. Everything about this album amazes me, from the lust to the guitar tone, from the voice(s) to the inventiveness. The Wait, Tattooed Love Boys, Precious - good lord! THe only POSSIBLE weakness is Lovers of Today, but everything else here makes up for it and - you know - it still has Chrissy Hynde, so that makes it awesome anyway. One of the best debut albums EV... ER. Gets me every time.
Excellent. Vinyl buy
Really liked it
Really really good. Good subject material and an innovative 80s sound. Fun!
In love, so so so so so in love with this album. I've listened to a shamefull amount Lovers of today
Essential and timeless. Their mix of punk directness and energy with classic 60s and rock'n roll elements made for a era defining and accessible record. From a time, when music could be edgy and reach mainstream success at the same time.
Frankly, incredible. There's some real punk here. There's actual attitude. It's energetic, it's sexy. Midway through, the album more or less shifts to be a bit more new wave, but it's absolutely seamless and doesn't miss a beat. I had heard of the Pretenders, but not really listened to them before. I'm shocked at how spectacular this is. Fav tracks: Precious, Up the Neck, Tattooed Love Boys, The Wait, Stop Your Sobbing, Kid, Private Life
What a treat, right up my alley and i've somehow never given it a spin before. Recognised a couple of songs once they came on, but i'd struggle to pick a weak song out of everything else here too. Will be getting plays in the future for sure.
Very good stuff. Chrissy Hynde's voice is brilliant
So nice I listened twice
Brilliant.
One of the greatest debut albums ever. Still in my rotation.
The best motherfucking debut album of all time.
Top 100 album for me. One of the greatest debut albums of all time.
Great band
Good rock with female vocalist
Perfect new wave album. Or is it post punk?
My god I love the Pretenders. I'd forgotten how much. Chrissie Hynde's voice is killer, but the band behind her is great too -- distinctive, engaging. This was a long album abd I loved (almost) every second of it.
Amazing album. I only knew one song and still enjoyed every song. Chrissey is a top notch songer for thistype of "punk" rock. Really underrated and has a real voice with range and versatility to change it for different stuff
Space Invader is sick. Brass in Pocket "I'm speccccialllll" worst song on album
Chrissie Hynde, the singer you are! She lends just the right kind of attitude to a collection of already-great songs.
I’ve heard a couple of their big hits but haven’t gone too deep on the Pretenders - I definitely need to look into their catalog more. This was a great album, certainly more matured than debut albums tend to be. Great sound production that can be both bright and dark, love the vocals, just a great overall package. 4.5/5
I dig this, it's like girl rock punk it keeps you engaged great voices, great music
Brass in pocket, we all know it, yeah yeah yeah. Precious, phone call, up the neck, the wait, space invaders, mystery achievement - these are where it’s at. Love the hard hitting, simple guitar riffs, ever present bass, and casually unapologetic vocals. Unpopular opinion: A side > B side. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I think I managed to listen to the extended edition of this album 3 times over the last 20 hours 😂😂 I think this album is fantastic. Its got a radio hit (Brass), a fun cover (Stop Sobbin’ - Kinks), weird instrumental (space invader - underrated track IMO) and tons of deep cuts (I like Kid and Tattoo Love Boy the most) Overall, this album is exactly what I like in pop/new wave and will be something I revisit. The pretenders are debatably more interesting as a band than Blondie.
This album fucking rocked. Only new kid and brass in pocket and was pleasantly surprised by how many genres this album explored
I knew some of the songs, but I'd never listened to this album before. It was great, going with a 5
Chrissie Hynde is a Goddess. Capital G. Great Friday record. BIG 5.
Love love love!!
I love Chrissie Hynde's singing style. Sometimes the music isn't as interesting as her voice. 4.5, bumped up because of the Cleveland references in Precious.
Well...my previous knowledge of this band was the score from the Living Daylights and Brass in Pocket by Scarlett Johansson. The first half is so good, the energy driving things along. Then it suddenly becomes more 'poppy' and we get the singles. Still great; we then end with another high energy track. Loved this and have been listening all day. Only question is - is this a 70s or 80s record?
Great one.
Fantastic Album. Great debut.
Marvellous
Strong Female lead with incredibly high energy. The band keeps that going through all of their songs. The versatility of the album is incredible. It has a lot of influence on modern music. I find the spoken word parts in the songs very strange... The lyrics are meaningful but they need more pizzaz
Great lyrics, studying all kinds of difficult important human relationships. Terrific exploration of shifting time signature. Outstanding music!
Oh hell yeah!
Like so many of the bands on this list, I’d heard of (The?) Pretenders but didn’t realize I’d heard some of their music. I realized that I’d heard “Precious,” “Stop Your Sobbing,” and “Brass in Pocket.” The first and third of those were great and were highlights for me here. This was a lot of fun. Really creative and fun spins of rock tropes, and a really tight group on the whole. Chrissie Hynde’s vocals are intoxicating, and come out with this effortless ease that just draws you in and keeps you there. She’s got such dynamic range. I’ve been dying for another new wave band that I actually like besides Talking Heads (who were already a long time favorite). After just this album, I have hope that Pretenders can fill that void. This was awesome. Five stars. Even with a couple duds. Also the bass lines are just incredible. See “The Wait” and “Mystery Achievement” for examples. Standout Tracks: Precious, The Phone Call, Space Invader, The Wait, Private Life, Brass in Pocket, Mystery Achievement Bass line on “The Wait” and “Mystery Achievement”
At first, I thought, "This group is familiar, but I can't quite put my finger on it", but when Brass in Pocket started playing, I just Knew who these guys were since the track plays on oldies station sometimes. Didn't expect the rest of the album to kick as much ass as it did, though. Just some absolute stellar new wave, so it's getting 5.
That’s a super easy 5. Chrissie Hynde has been one of the most persistent banes of my trivia existence – I’ve never heard a song by Pretenders until listening through this album, but I’ll be damned if I haven’t been dragged and kicked into learning that Chrissie Hynde is their lead vocalist. Her vocal style on this album just feels super refreshing for some reason that I can’t quite grasp – the closest comparison I have is Alanis Morissette, and there are plenty of times throughout this album where I swear I’m hearing Alanis. I think it’s something to do with the ability to easily switch between a sort of soft spoken word and belting out on a dime. Past all of that though, this is just an awesome sounding album from an instrumental standpoint – in many ways, this really does feel like the first album of the 1980s. It was recorded in the 70s, and didn’t get released until January of 1980, but this really feels like the first proper album to capture the sounds and stylings of 80s production in full force. A lot of the stuff on here sounds like it could be from any one year of the decade at any given point, and that’s really cool to me. I think the guitar and percussion both have their standout moments here, the guitar moreso, but when mixed with Chrissie’s vocals, it just clicks together perfectly. I don’t think there’s a bad track on here; maybe a few duller moments, but I’d say this album keeps up the energy pretty much at all times. I really, really enjoyed this, and I’m glad I can finally put a sound to the trivia question that I usually miss. This was awesome. Very deserved 5.
One of the finest debuts by one of the finest singers.
Casts a wide net of sounds and style while dripping of personality.
Great album, amazing vocals
I listen to this album every few months or so. I'm a huge fan already, and this generator doesn't change anything. I adore Chrissie Hinde's voice. My favorite track is "Brass in Pocket" and it's one that I love to loudly sing along with.
One of my all time favorite albums.
Nothing Pretend about this album. From the first time I heard Brass in Pocket & Precious all those years ago I was hooked. Saw Chrissy again with her latest revolving lineup in July ‘24 and they’re not faking it.
An amazing debut, Hynde is a bad ass who pushes an unvarnished female view in your face and sounds both beautiful and tough at the same time. Tattooed Love Boys, Precious and Mystery Achievement are perfection. The Wait is one of my favorite Songs by anyone, her guitar playing is great on there too. Not sure how she can sing and play that Rythym at the same time. I've watced vids of her playing it live and am astounded...
Like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, I first heard some singles by Pretenders and assumed the group was softer than what turned out to be the truth on their debut ("Maps" and "Brass in Pocket," respectively). You can definitely hear some Karen O in some of Chrissie Hynde's vocalizations, especially in the higher register. And Chrissie the main songwriter, coming up with some innovative musical ideas, sometimes on the verge of prog. The opener "Precious" gives an immediate punk edge both in the music, vocal approach, and lyrics; from the jump, you know anything goes. They turn up the anything goes in the 7/8 timing and lyrical rushing through triplets of "The Phone Call." Again, we see great timing on "Tattooed Love Boys", alternating between 7/8 and 8/8 more smoothly than the hyper-square precision of Rush's "Freewill." The middle of the album eases off the reigns, offering a more relaxed, poppy, and less-caustic version of themselves. "Private Life" combines the darkness of Def Leppard's intro to "Foolin'" with the feel of The Police's "Walking on the Moon," adding reggae to their repertoire. There is a bit of Heart here too. "Brass In Pocket" is the perfect strut between the pop and punk introduced earlier on the album with the backing vocals leaning more into a Hall & Oates vibe. I had only previously knew two songs by Pretenders and as a result was misguided as to what they do. Very impressed with this band: their direction, songwriting, and performance on this album, even more so given that it is there debut.
Loved this back in the day!
Great album. Interesting and well played songs. Great vocals.
One of those groups I had not really listened to a lot in my youth and, wow, what an amazing album! So happy to discover this gem…
I really liked this album! Is it cringe to say that it rocked really hard? If it is, I don't care because this album rocked! The vocalist was superb, the lyrics were great, and the sort of fuzzy and unrefined sound quality of the instrumentals fit the vibe SO well. This is the punk rock style I've been waiting for in this project and I will definitely listen to this album a lot.
1979. Punk was dead. New Wave was starting and a blag of a journalist at the NME was at the heart of it. I'm not sure about precious - the opening track - but Hynde certainly was precocious. But when you flip this record its been worth the wait. Four perfect singles - albeit the first stolen from her new beau, Ray Davies (it would become a theme) in a row. A fascinating, perfrect debut album.
I really enjoyed this. Hit(s) aside, I liked discovering songs I hadn’t heard before. Chrissy’s voice is amazing!
I thought this was a wonderful album. Full of songs, sounds as fresh as if it were released now. I don't think I've ever listened to a Pretenders album but this is going on my list of things to go back to again and again. OK - I'm a sucker for new wave and anything post punk but this is a fantastic album.
Liked this one a lot. Was never on my radar at all. Happy to have heard. Will I listen to again: 100%
You think you know an album. Yeah yeah great hits, great opener, etc. But wait. Tattoo Love Boys! The guitar on Private Life! Great closer! At school a girlfriend tried to get me into this but in 1987 I thought of them as old hat. The folly of youth.
Lovely album.
Super surprised by this. Big Florence and the Machine vibes.
I had no idea. Every song is great. The guitar playing is genuinely inspiring.
Fantastic debut album
Always wanted to like the Pretenders more - and definitely do now after listening to this album!
Great album. Solid punk rock
CLASSIC! Loved it.
Once again shocked that this is a freaking debut album. So many great hits. Chrissie Hynde has always been the coolest.
I didn't discover the Pretenders till later in life. Wish I had sooner. Punkish, new wavey, catchy, hard-rocking. Great stuff.
I cant believe that this album came out in 1979 - It just "feels" like more of a mid-80s album to me. Anyway, solid album with great production and good overall vibes. 5/5
😘
Damn. I kinda love this album. Mystery Achievement has been a favorite of mine for the last couple years (such a great bass line). Cool to finally hear the album it comes from. I pretty much liked every song. There were a few songs on this album that I thought were a little odd at first listen (Phone Call, Up the Neck) but then I looked up the lyrics. Yes, definitely odd and I like it! Great songwriting. Very original with great energy.
This is a good one. This came out during my college years, and made a big splash in that community. Led by the hit single “Brass In Pocket”, which is an irresistibly catchy song. That, along with the other singles “Kid” and “Stop Your Sobbing” (Kinks cover) are all pleasant poppy singles. But the key to this album are the other cuts: growling energetic songs with a punk/new wave slant. Notably, these are the songs that open the album: ”Precious”, “The Phone Call”, “Up The Neck”, “Tattooed Love Boys”. “The Wait”…. These songs all kick butt. Those are the songs that make this album great, though the softer songs are fine. But it is odd that the album starts off in take-no-prisoners mode, then segues into pop mode. And finally closes out with “Mystery Achievement”, which sort of straddles the two styles. It’s all a little split-personality. Listen to “The Wait” and the “”Brass In Pocket”…. It is like 2 totally different bands. Both good, though. If this had come out 2 years earlier, it would’ve been earth shaking. But by the time we heard this, The Police, The Clash, Elvis Costello and Blondie all had released multiple albums. All were edging towards more radio friendly positions. And the Pretenders fit in with those bands, but compresses the trajectory into a single album. Side one is a solid 5/5. Side two is somewhere between high 3 and low 4. Overall? I’ll round up to 5, but barely. I’m just happy to have an album I know and like after a rash of disappointing servings.
A regular listen for me since the day of release. How many years ago???
One of my favorites
Pretenders debut album. Great start
instant classic
What a fantastic album. The first tracks have one foot firmly in the punk world of the 1970s, except there is some real virtuosity in the writing and playing. 7/4 time signatures, Chrissy Hynde's don't give a shit vocals, and the transition to the easy confident sound of The Pretenders with doses of The Police, some ska, and art music thrown in for good measure. Not a perfect album, but a stunning debut. Close enough to a five for me.
This was great! Mix of Cranberries and Blondie in my mind. Definitely exceeded expectations and worthy of the list.
Loved it
Didn't realize they were kinda punk.
Great album
Such a solid, eclectic album. Favorite so far
I think this one is the most compelling so far. 60s pop, rock, new wave. Great feel overall. Tons of motion from track to track but all works together. I feel like you can trace the line back to golden oldies hits and forward to No Doubt.
I started out indifferent but it won me over
OMG PRETENDERS! I DIDN'T KNOW HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU! It's honestly one of the greatest debut albums i've listen of this list. Amazing album!!
Chrissie Hynde Rules!
One of the great albums that represents a truly original group, spanning the late 70s through the 80s. One of my all-time favorite bands. This album has great powerful songs by one the great singer- songwriters of the time Chrissie Hynde,who gave us some of the most memorable songs of our teen years.
This album is just so freaking brilliant I don't know what to say. Their follow-up is (dare I say) even better. I don't LOVE the cover of "Stop Your Sobbing," though I know that's a fave for others, so maybe I'm just wrong about that. Everything else... perfect.
Still fantastic after all these years. Such a great debut and one of my all-time favorite albums. This time around, I was struck by how many beautiful little touches there are from each member on every single song. Music doesn't get better than this.
I equate this album with one of those group memory things like how everyone remembers where they were when the planes hit. Where were you when you first heard of The Pretenders? I clearly remember the first time I heard The Pretenders and by that I mean Chrissie Hynde's voice because let's be honest...it's her vibratto that absolutely stops you in your tracks. I was in 9th grade in my room; my brother just got the album. But then Baader-Meinhof---The Pretenders were everywhere---Brass in Pocket video on rotation, radio, parties, school dances. I remember burning my lower eyelid trying to get that Chrissie raccoon eye look. I was never brave enough to go for a red leather jacket (added to the regrets list). I thought the whole UK - US blend was the bomb. Every song a goddamn banger. Not a dud on this album. Even Space Invaders. I was so happy to revisit this one today. In fact I revisited it 2+ times. Closing with Mystery Achievement is fucking brilliant.
Brilliant. Ms. H is a sly genius Nick Lowe might’ve missed something 😉 Elastica blueprint
What a debut
I LOVE ❤️ The Pretenders!!! I could listen to Chrissy Hynde sing All day long….my fantasy trio would be Chrissy, Annie Lennox and Brandi Carlile!!
Fantastic work on this album - swerving into a punk landscape with Hynde's superb vocals and well crafter musicianship, this is a stellar piece of rock.
Amazing LP, The Pretenders have always been awesome, this was a fantastic intro
Standouts: Up the Neck, The Wait, Brass in Pocket, Mystery Achievement, Porcelain. This is my mom's favorite band, so it reminds me of her :) I love this sound, reminds me of its peers Plastic Letters and Parallel Lines.
CHRISSY Hind finally got a band and her desire to produce a gem that stands tall without Pretensions.
Love love love me some Pretenders. In case you missed this nugget…. ‘Got new skank/It’s so reet’ is a little tip of the hat to famed US artist and satirist Robert Crumb. “I was a big fan of his comic books”, she says. “One cartoon of his had this pot gauge; a machine for measuring the quality of marijuana. If it was really, really good stuff they called it ‘reet petite’.”
"The Pretenders" is the debut album by British-American rock band the Pretenders. The music is a combination of rock and roll, punk and new wave. I can't really add anything there. Nick Lowe produced their first single "Stop Your Sobbing" but didn't want to do the full album as they thought the band wasn't going anywhere. Nice move Nicky boy! Chris Thomas got the producer job. The Pretenders are (sorry for the insult) Christie Hynde (lead vocals, guita), Martin Chambers (drums), Pete Farndon (bass) and James Honeyman Scott (guitars). The album hit #1 in the UK and #9 in the US. The band comes out sounding like the Ramones on "Precious." Nice phased guitar and some vicious Hynde lyrics. "Tattooed Love Boys" is essentially a Bo Diddley beat on speed with explosive guitars. The woman protagonist refuses a motorcycle gang drugs who then take and rape her. I guess I should have listen closer to lyrics previously. They close out side one with a nice, melodic cover of the Kink's "Stop Your Sobbing." On side two, Hynde starts to show her pop tendencies. "Kid" is melodic and has an interesting beat. It's about a boy who discovered his Mother is a prostitute. I dony want to know anything about Chrissie's dreams. The first Pretender song I remember hearing is "Brass in Pocket." Hynde said it was a failed attempt at a Motown song. It does have a cool relaxed groove. She's also said it is about the cockiness you need to perform. The album closes with "Mystery Achievement" and it's seductive and hypnotic bass and drums and slashing guitar riffs. She's imaging being on the cusp of fame. She need not to worry after a few months. This is one of the best debut albums of all time. The music is aggressive and the lyrics are R-rated at time (shit maybe X. Okay NC-17). Sure, as accused, they sound like a lot of other bands. You hear influences from the Velvet Underground, the Bestles, Blondie, the Police, the Ramones, Public Image Ltd. and Guitarist John of Siouxsie and the Banshees. Nevertheless, they create a sound that is their own. A classic.
Best one yet
Awesome
Great! Standouts (5/5): Brass in Pocket, Stop Your Sobbing, Kid, Precious, Mystery Achievement, The Wait, Private Life, Lovers of Today 4/5: Up the Neck, Space Invader Rating: 5/5
Love this album!
Hab das Album beim Kochen gehört und bin dabei immer wieder herumgetänzelt. Ein gutes Zeichen. Hach, das hat Spaß gemacht. Am besten fand ich "Up the Neck" (erinnert mich stellenweise an Rush...?!) und "Mystery Achievement" (tolle Riffs). "Brass in Pocket" war das einzige Lied, was ich von dem Album bereits kannte, aber fand ich vergleichsweise eher schwächer.
This album is a classic in New Wave and Post-Punk, for sure. I really like it, but it's not an album I go back to very often. I'd probably give it 4.25 or 4.5 stars, for me, personally, but I have to give it 5 stars based on the influence and impact on top of just being great music.
I liked the album better than I thai might based on the singles I’ve heard. Actual punk dna
This was a fantastic first album by the Pretenders. Chrissy Hynde and the rest of her mattes rocked!
Brilliant
I love the Pretenders with all my heart!
Great album!
One of the best debut albums ever. Chrissie Hynde is a national treasure. RIP James Honeyman-Scott.
Yay!
Loved it
Love. Love. Love the album! Never listened to it entirely before. I've actually heard a lot of these deeper tracks before on SXM first wave. Precious is one of my all time favorites as well as mystery achievement. I was introduced to the pretenders from hearing brass in pocket on radio. Then in the 80s hearing their stuff. It wasn't until later I discovered their earlier stuff had huge punk/new wave vibes. Solid solid album. And Chrissie is definitely a leading lady of rock!
Gritty. Raw. Great.
Excellent
I was expecting new wave like "I'll stand by you" but we get so much more. There are more edgier songs that are closer to the Ramones than 80s new wave. But we also get new wave and a bit of Rock and Roll as well. The only song I remember is Brass in Pocket, but the entire album is good. I don't think I would have ever listened to this entire album if not for this challenge. Chrissy Hynde is amazing. No matter the song style, she kills it. Such a great album. I would definitely listen to it again. 5 out of 5 stars
100% brilliant!
Classic album. ‘Brass In Pocket’ is great, and I can’t think of a bad song on this. Unexpected, but 5.
Why didn't I get this album in 1979/80? I really loved their singles but this album takes it to the next level. Precious has so much attitude, while The Wait is just a jammin' good time.
Lyrics: One of the standout features of "Pretenders" is Chrissie Hynde's songwriting. The lyrics are a potent mix of vulnerability, toughness, and wit. In tracks like "Brass in Pocket," Hynde's confident delivery and clever wordplay shine through. She conveys a sense of independence and self-assurance, making the lyrics relatable and empowering. The storytelling in "Tattooed Love Boys" showcases a darker side, delving into themes of desire and obsession. The lyrics throughout the album exhibit a level of introspection and emotional depth that set The Pretenders apart from their punk and new wave contemporaries. Music: Musically, "Pretenders" is a diverse and dynamic album. The band skillfully navigates through various genres, incorporating elements of punk, rock, and pop. The instrumentation is tight, and the arrangements showcase a balance between raw energy and sophisticated musicianship. The guitar work by James Honeyman-Scott is a standout feature, characterized by inventive riffs and melodic solos. The rhythm section, consisting of Pete Farndon on bass and Martin Chambers on drums, provides a solid foundation, contributing to the album's overall tight and cohesive sound. Production: The production of "Pretenders" is noteworthy for its clarity and crispness, especially considering the punk and new wave influences. Chris Thomas, known for his work with The Beatles and Pink Floyd, brought a polished touch to the album without compromising its edge. The mix allows each instrument to shine, and Hynde's vocals are front and center, adding to the album's immediacy. The production values contribute to the longevity of the album, as it doesn't sound dated despite its release over four decades ago. The careful balance of raw energy and production finesse is a testament to the craftsmanship behind the recording. Themes: "Pretenders" explores a range of themes, from love and desire to independence and self-discovery. Chrissie Hynde's lyrics often reflect a complex mix of emotions, and the album as a whole captures a snapshot of the late '70s with its social and cultural upheavals. The themes of empowerment and self-confidence in tracks like "Brass in Pocket" resonate strongly. Meanwhile, the darker and more introspective moments, such as in "Kid," showcase the band's ability to delve into the complexities of human relationships. Influence: The influence of "Pretenders" on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable. The album's amalgamation of punk and new wave elements, combined with Hynde's distinctive vocals, has inspired countless artists across genres. The blending of rock and pop sensibilities laid the groundwork for alternative rock, influencing bands that emerged in the '80s and '90s. The empowerment and authenticity conveyed in the album have made it a touchstone for female artists in particular, breaking down barriers and paving the way for women in rock. The Pretenders' impact can be heard in the work of bands ranging from The Bangles to Garbage, showcasing the enduring influence of this debut. Pros: Strong Songwriting: Chrissie Hynde's songwriting is a standout, offering a mix of vulnerability and toughness. Musical Diversity: The album seamlessly blends punk, rock, and pop influences, showcasing the band's musical versatility. Exceptional Instrumentation: James Honeyman-Scott's guitar work is inventive and memorable, complemented by a solid rhythm section. Effective Production: The polished production by Chris Thomas maintains a balance between raw energy and clarity. Influential Impact: "Pretenders" has left a lasting mark on the music industry, influencing subsequent generations of musicians. Cons: Limited Variation in Tempo: Some tracks on the album share a similar mid-tempo pace, which may affect the overall dynamism for certain listeners. Relatively Short Duration: With just 12 tracks, the album's brevity may leave listeners craving more, although each track is strong individually. In conclusion, "Pretenders" by The Pretenders stands as a landmark debut that successfully blends genres and showcases the formidable talent of Chrissie Hynde and her bandmates. The album's enduring influence and timeless quality make it a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of rock and new wave music. With its strong lyrics, diverse musicality, effective production, and lasting impact, "Pretenders" remains a classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
Loved it, great memories
Good
I've heard this blasting a lot while growing up while trying to sleep in on a Saturday morning after dad decided he was going to go to town with his power tools and speaker setup. It sounds a lot more enjoyable now when I've chosen to listento it lol
Fabulous
Should have kept the name (Mike Hunt's) Dishonorable Discharge.
5/5
A groundbreaking album in that it combines pop and punk rock n a way not done at this point, and led by a woman. I would have liked to given this 4.5 but I’ll round up since it’s important in the history of rock.
Guay. La voz de esta mujer es ... Y como tiene la canción Kid, y "is the debut studio album" le voy a dar un 5.
I wish there was six stars
Cool AF
A great album that really shows the early stages of their creativity and experimenting with styles, vocals, and ideas. Love it!
Such passion and completely listenable from start to finish. A total classic.
madonna once said chrissie hynde was the only real bitch in the world and she was right!
A stunning debut album from Chrissie Hynde's Pretenders. Her experience in numerous other bands and connection to the Sex Pistols brought her all the experience she needed to explode onto the punk and new wave scenes.
Though the album itself is not more than 5 out of 5, i give it the maximum just because this one totally gives me the vibes of being i'm in New York in the late 70s. And damn, Chrissie's voice is incredibly sexy
I really enjoyed it, even listened to the deluxe version.
I don’t think any band merged the somewhat conflicting styles of punk and new wave better than the Pretenders on their debut (maybe Elvis Costello is the only other than comes to mind). They thread the needle of punk attitude and new wave pop sensibility, and somehow this barely sounds dated at all, amazing for an album from this era. Chrissie Hynde is such a unique vocalist, mixing delicate crooning with snarly chatter. It’s always a slow burn for me to realize the greatness, but there is not a bad or even mediocre track on the album. Unquestionably one of the best albums of the 80s.
I’ve a lot about the pretenders. They’re also on my have-to-listen-playlist for a long time. I’m glad I finally listened to them. This album is amazing, sounds so damn good. 5/5
Embarrassed to say that beyond Brass in Pocket, I did not know this. But it is great. Swagger for days and plays like a survey of 80s rock from punk to new wave to pop.
I've heard a small handful of the Pretenders songs, but this was my first experience with one of their whole albums. This album was a perfect blend of New Wave and Punk. Knowing the Pretenders' radio hits, I was caught off guard by some of the lyrical content of some of the songs on this album. I don't mean to say that any of that subject matter was out of place on this album, because I think it fit perfectly with the Pretenders punk leanings. Chrissie Hynde was the perfect frontwoman to tackle lyrics like this, and this album laid the foundations that acts like Joan Jett, Pat Benatar, and The Go-Go's were able to build their success on (okay, Joan Jett got her start before the Pretenders were around, but her solo stuff had much further reach than her stuff with The Runaways). Musically, this album had some fantastic guitar licks. The songs here were varied in their sound, and that allowed James Honeyman-Scott to show off his skills. From the furious solo of "Tattooed Love Boys" to the riffs on "Brass in Pocket," he could really do it all. The rest of the band's playing was fantastic too; it really felt like all the instrumentals were perfectly placed on this album. I've always enjoyed the few Pretenders songs that I'd heard, but this gave me a new appreciation for how talented and influential they were.
I love the Chrissy Hynde story. She was a rock critic and was getting some flack from artists after some negative reviews. Someone said, if you think it is so easy, see if you can do it yourself. So she did, and The Pretenders is the result. I think she won the bet.
One of the best debut albums in history.
Great voice, great songs. Definitely listened to this growing up, never took much interest in the artist but will deffo be looking them up after this.
💯 💯 💯 💯 💯
Excellent songwriting. Chrissie Hynde is a badass musician.
Chrissie Hynde's voice is great - just effortlessly cool. Tattooed Love Boys is a classic - I love the 7/4 (?) time signature giving it an unsettling vibe. Interesting to compare Private Life with the Grace Jones cover (I like both).
Solid band, solid album. Great variation in songs, distinctive sound, overall a bop. 5/5
So many great ones on here. Surprising use of alternating time signatures and polyrhythm on several songs.
5. Love it!
Loved this
Awesome band. I had only heard the hit songs on this album but it’s all good.
Christ what a debut. Chrissie Hynde is criminally underrated. She's the type of rock star who won't receive her just recognition until we lose her. She IS The Pretenders, although one wonders if that would still be the case had two members of the band not have died so young after their first two albums. No skips here. Forty-seven minutes of solid bangers. Interesting how the most known song (Brass In Pocket) is buried in the middle of side two. No matter. This album's special (Spesh All).
One of THE classic of the new wave era, The Pretenders eponymous debut is nothing but spectacular. Songs like Brass in Pocket and Precious played well at college parties while the rest of the album is just one great song after another. What makes this album so great is Crissie Hynde. Her deep alto perfectlt fits the band's big basket of punk attitude. Unlike other new wave/punk bands of the era, that attitude is tempered with an underlying sensuality that even Blondie (the original new wave sex kitten) couldn't muster. This is a true gem. Listen to it on vinyl to get the same visceral feel that late 70s' punk rockers did.
Fucking love this album
Can’t get enough of this album. It has everything: attitude, energy, passion, ear worms, creativity… Great group of songs, but my favorites are Tattooed Love Boys, The Phone Call, Stop Your Sobbing, and Kid. Great album!
Love The Pretenders, great album
Essential Pretenders & top tier post punk. Chrissie Hynde is in a class of her own with that snarky sultry rock voice. Great band & great album.
Very into this. Was not expecting so much punk feel. Then it slows down a little. Then there it is. I'm special. So special
Another band that I didn't know I liked. Add this one to the list! So many good songs on this album. All killer, no filler. As they say. I think Tattooed Love Boys might be my fave, but Brass In Pocket and Precious stood out too. I need to give this a few more listens, and I'll be happy to do so. 4.5/5
I really like this album. It's fun, had a bit of a hard edge, and was pretty original at the time. It also has a few timeless songs on it so doesn't feel like it's aged poorly. I never really get tired of "Brass in Pocket" for some reason.
cool
Yeah, Chrissie!
This sounds way ahead of its time. Late 70s, really? Impressive.
Classic case of knowing the singles but never heard the album. By God, this is good. Feels underrated if anything. It's almost embarrassingly obvious to choose Brass in Pocket as best song, but what a song!
Wow! 11/10
This album was one of those that I thought I was going to be on this list. Happy to see that I’m not disappointed. Interesting to hear that Johnny Marr considered this to be key to his playing style. And Tattooed Love Boys is one of my favourite Rock Band jams.
Before this album was released, I didn't listen to any female-fronted bands. On my first listen of the Pretenders debut album, something clicked instantly, it was amazing, like nothing I had been exposed to up to this point. Chrissie Hynde's snarl in her voice, the guitar interplay between Hynde and James Honeyman-Scott and the well crafted songs, their sound was both catchy and energetic. It wasn't exactly punk, nor was it new wave, it was rock that combined some of those elements for modern rock sound with a punk attitude. I consider this one of a handful of albums that helped shape and define my musical tastes. In my opinion, the Pretenders didn't release another record this great, though Learning To Crawl was close, but the band was never the same after the deaths of Honeyman-Scott and bassist, Pete Farndon. The Pretenders became more of a Chrissie Hynde driven "project" and to this day has continued to release some pretty fine music.
I’ve always liked the Pretenders but can’t recall ever listening to any of their albums. I really enjoyed this album. I didn’t realize what song Brass In Pocket was until it started. Not sure how I never knew that was the name of the song which was a surprise since I really love that song! The rest of the album had a lot of great tracks. Other favorites include Previous, Space Invader (yay for the video game samples!), The Wait, Kid, and Mystery Achievement. I really loved the album as a whole. Great stuff!
Timeless.
Loved this one. Chrissie Hynde is pretty much all you need to know but the band stays with her every step of the way. Top rating here.
probably 4.25 but fuck it, chrissie deserves the extra star for being so cool
Excelente pintura de época