Reviews (page 12 of 15)
i love this album so much. it was really good and catchy. 8/10
Honestly didn’t like it as much as I thought I would. It was a decent album but felt like there was a few repetitive songs and was a tad boring. Talking Heads definitely better after this album. Psycho Killer is still a bop
Great album with classic songs. One of my favorites and a showcase of Talking Heads style.
I love the Talking Heads, but I've never been able to get into this album for some reason. I really like some of the songs and the overall sound, and I definitely recognize it's influence. But as an album, I don't think it holds up to More Songs..., Remain in Light, or Speaking in Tongues. Maybe one day it will click with me. I do love 'Don't Worry About The Gov" and 'Psycho Killer' though.
I personally consider that this album lacks substance, it failed to tell me anything and it was majorly an indifferent listen. Best songs to me were "Psycho Killer" and "Pull up". There are no painful features in the project either. Expected Marc rating: 3.
Vaya pal d'àlbum. Totes les cançons sonen igual
There are all the foundations of what make the talking heads great throughout the years and it’s well produced but I think there is just some magic missing. I think the weird punk influence and odd instrumentation that create the grooves are missing if I had to guess. Well produced but the songs just don’t have the same hitting quality for me as subsequent records.
I like talking heads but most of this album mediocre
I’m sure that Talking Heads is one of those bands where if I they’re playing on the radio, I’ll often say, “Oooh this is good, who is it?” To which Rach usually tells me. Based on that, I’m hoping this will be a good listen today. Songs I already knew: Psycho Killer Favourites: Psycho Killer, Uh-Oh Live Comes To Town I love how diverse this album is! The opening track initially sounds like something Creedence Clearwater Revival might write, and then suddenly off the top rope we get some steel drums out of nowhere. The music is catchy from front to back, and demonstrates excellent 70’s pop rock. There wasn’t any part of this that I didn’t enjoy, so this is very easy to rate as far as I’m concerned.
Muitas boas músicas além de Psycho Killer, mas eu realmente acho que Psycho Killer não é lá tudo isso então vou mandar um 4
This album is so much fun. Enthusiastic vocals, witty lyricisms and a groove that makes you want to dance around the office. İts a record that makes you smile.
Pretty good, catchy with good basslines
Better than I was expecting. Actually found some things to like on this album.
Still pretty top notch
4/5
Psycho killer... forgot how much I liked this song
First off, I’m gonna be honest when I saw the band I didn’t recognize them and couldn’t think of a song. Then I saw this album and realized I knew a song, psycho killer! Yeah it’s popular but I’m glad I knew one. Def one of my favorite bands at the minute, gotta check these guys out further
I LOVE Talking Heads. These songs are great examples of having a lot of energy without making it manic. My one complaint about this album is that none of the songs really live up to just how good Psycho Killer is. That is their hit of the album and their ONLY standout-amazing song to me. If I was rating Psycho Killer it would be an easy 5/5, but no other songs are up to those standards. Nonetheless, different and amazing sound for their time, would never think this album was released in 1977. Personal Favorites: Psycho Killer, Sugar on my tongue
Annoying and overrated. Jeez.
I like this a lot, good style. Will I listen to again: 100%
Look it's talking heads. True fact that they Slap
One of my mom's fave bands and she knows nothing about them 😞
Exceptional album that never would have thought to listen to in its entirety on its own. Love this service so far!
When I reviewed "Fear of music", I considered that "the first great TH album." This album was released before "Fear of music". Enough said. It's good, some songs are great, but as an album it's still unripe. (I don't like numeric ratings, I just give 3 to anyone)
Previously rated: Remain In Light (2/5) ************************ Much better than the previous Talking Heads album. This one had more energy, the songs were catchier. I liked the lyrics better too. Enjoyed hearing the different instruments, steel drum, xylophone, etc.
Excellent, edgy cuts point the extremely creative way forward (starting with the steel drums on the opener). So fresh, still. The playing with disco and funk and what sounds like calypso (steel drums do have their impact), odd time signatures and sudden reversals or shifts in tempo – all of it in nerve-janglingly energetic like the city they were/are most associated with. A defining sound, if not exactly timeless, given how timebound all the best pop music seems to be. One has always admired Byrne’s willingness to be different (which feels quite authentic compared to, say, ultra-contrived Bowie) without necessarily enjoying every song he’s done. The originality of style, angly-jangly guitars and a leanness of vibe, is another major plus. Nearly 50 years on (how possible?) this feels maybe a touch underwhelming, just slightly on the slight side, but that's judging based on knowing all the stornger, richer outputs that were soon to come.
Sugar on my tongue👅
I can’t fathom this as an album in 1979. Ahead of its time? First song is obviously the best but a fun album overall.
Weak start, with a real low point at Tentative Decisions. The rest of the album is actually really good. Not as polished (and good) as the Eno-produced albums, bit a good debut nonetheless. 3.5*
Listened Before? Yes I think I've heard this one before, but hasn't gotten much play. Only song that immediately stands out from the track list is Psycho Killer. Weird to me that they felt the need to qualify the title with the year of release, but then again Byrne is a cooky dude. New Feeling stands out. Has an undeniable quirky TH sound for the most part, but the guitar intro and various interludes always feel like they are borrowed from some 60s rock band. Early standout. Who Is It? is another peak TH song. Funky song that hops from start to finish with Byrne crooning mostly nonsense in his slightly broken way. No Compassion is a weirdly structured one. It starts off slow then drops into a dancey rock section before suddenly flipping back to the slow tempo in which it started. Had this mostly in the background, but enjoyed everything I heard. For a debut album, they really had a well-established sound that certainly carries through the rest of their work. Strong 4 / 5. Added to Library? Yes Songs Added to Playlists: - New Feeling (Sunny-vibes) - Who Is It? (Driving) - Psycho Killer (Driving)
Some good songs, Talking Heads really aren't my thing but this is a good album
No real low points on this album. Uh-Oh is a good start to an album. The Book I Read and First Week / Last Week are favorites; love the xylophone/marimba on First Week/Last Week. Psycho Killer obviously we all know. Overall I like David Byrnes mannerisms. The guitar and piano parts are great throughout the album as well. Soft 4 here.
I've listened to a lot more talking heads since our last album sometime in the spring and I have liked them a lot more. This album was pretty good but definitely not my favorite. The book I Read and Psycho Killer are the top jams for sure.
Only have heard a few of these tracks before that I know of, but the Talking Heads sound just hits something for me. Quirky and fun with layers of sounds. Surprised they didn't add Love --> Building on Fire as it's a jam and a half. Definitely not Talking Heads greatest output, but love how you can see their sound develop from this to More Songs about Building and Food and eventually Remain in Light.
Excellent
Psycho Killer is my jam and I love the rest of the album. Instant 5/5.
I'm conflicted on Talking Heads. they're a great band, they paved the way for an entire genre, sub-genre and the future of music. BUT David Byrne just rubs me the wrong way. All is forgiven on some of their other releases, but 77 just doesn't fit here with the exception of Psycho Killer. Psycho Killer is a great song, but it doesn't do enough heavy lifting to bring this album the greatness it is getting. 3.5/5
3.5, it's not my favorite TH album
No thanks
Really liked this album. Super funky, the singer has such an interesting timber, such raw energy and irreverent lyrics. Psycho killer is a bop, pulled me up really showcases the singer's strengths, New feeling has such a vibe to it. Big talking heads guy now
Funky and plucky rock sound. Feels like all the songs were pretty similar, but they sound they were going for was mastered in Psycho Killer.
A little too 70 experimental for me.
getting this right after watching stop making sense... couldn't think of a better way to start this journey; well maybe I could think of a better way - a different talking heads album because this one.... idk psycho killer is great of course but the rest? let's be real they've made much better albums than this one.
Playful, poppy, and sinister all at the same time.
Very nice album, grew on me for every song
Might be my fourth or fifth favorite talking heads album but I still love it. Rating: 4.4
I knew this album and I love it. A perfect example of New Wave style, they perfectly combine punk with world music. I love this band, even if David Byrne's nasal voice can be annoying at times. PSYCHO KILLER QU'EST CE QUE C'EST ? FAFAFA FAFAFAFAFA FA RUN RUN RUN RUN RUN AWAAAAAAAAAY OH OH OH OHHHHHHHH AYAYAYAYAY
talking heads type beat
Impressive debut. Psycho Killer is a stone-cold classic, but I think their subsequent albums (and the film Stop Making Sense) are more important and had a significant impact on culture. Some early tracks are more forgettable, but the back half of the album really brings the album to a satisfying conclusion.
The songs have a lively rhythm to them. It feels like they were an influence to the music of Franz Ferdinand. A unique sound for the era.
one of the weaker TH albums imo
Brilliant and odd
I should recognize some of these pieces because I was 5, but I don’t. I only recognize the sound of their voices for songs produced in the 80’s. I had no idea Talking Heads was around before I heard them on the radio. “Don’t Worry About the Government” makes me think I could write a random song. It has the feel of a fun, thoughtless, babble that you might sing around the house, putting the words of what you are currently and actively doing into a tune that will be forgotten. A piggyback song of sorts. But it made it into this album.
This is a pre 80s album of the most 80s music/band possible. Psycho killer is a great track. The rest of the album is still pretty decent but not as consistent. I know a lot of these albums on this list are on here more for their musical impact than their talent. This one definitely makes sense. The whole decade of the 80s may have been wildly different without this album, and it’s still pretty good to listen to. 6.7/10
Tager lidt længere tid om at komme igang end Remain in Light men anden halvdel er pissefed. Bedste numre: The Book I Read, Don't Worry About the Government, Psycho Killer
Tidligt i Talking Heads' karriere og de lyder ikke nær så unikke som de kommer til, men den her plade er stadig underlig og fyldt med bangere, og David Byrne lyder allerede som om han render rundt i et kæmpestort jakkesæt og prøver at bilde folk ind at han er Voksen.
Back at it again with the talking heads... Siger mig stadig ikke så meget. Virker egentlig stadig relativt relevant, lydmæssigt, men der er nok bare for mange sange som ikke sagde mig noget. I don't get it.. yet :(
naja du, bissl lahm der Ofen
Another good example of why I love this list- I had never heard of this album previously.
So much fun and joy. Fav track: Psycho killer
Probably my least played record from the Heads, so I enjoyed this listen for re-appreciating some of the more raw and playful compositions of their early years. Not my favourite by any means but still a lot of fun. Strong three and a half? Fave track: Psycho Killer
Pretty good little record - strange to compare to their other work which seems really quite far ahead, but so much creativity and originality brought to rock music from early on. Three and a half. Fave track: Psycho Killer
Probably the most 2/5 album on this list
Rock new wave un tanto monótono. Un megahit.
Guay. Sus canciones parecidas a Bowie. Suenan muy parecidas a Phsyco Killer.
How does a band come out nearly fully formed on their debut album yet have room to still grow over their career? I'm sure a lot of that has to do with Byrne, the opinionated writer and front man, clashing with his other bandmates, famously often at odds with the excellent and (I think) under-appreciated bassist, Tina Weymouth. It's an incredible debut album. Every corner of it is full of the DNA that makes the Talking Heads uniquely themselves.
It's fine. Talking Heads have always been their own thing - something different, but not so different that people won't listen to them. Solid middle-of-the-road.
Some classics (Psycho Killer, don’t worry about the government, new feeling) but there are a few stretches that get a bit same-y.
Psycho Killer, qu'est que c'est. Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa.....
A positive opener for my first day of 1001 albums! Obviously I've heard "Psycho Killer" before, but don't recall having heard any of the other tracks on this album. Not sure if I got the original album experience as I was linked to the Spotify remaster with acoustic covers scattered amongst the studio tracks. I was feeling a little under the weather the night I listened to this so I needed something buoyant and energetic to listen to. Rating a solid 4.
Wonderful album. I love "Psycho Killer"! This made me realize I don't listen to enough Talking Heads.
Big fan of the Talking Heads. Really love this album.
The last two songs pretty much redeemed the whole album. It makes me think of the possibility if it was a bit more rhythmic vs experimental.
Funky way of rocking. Clever lyrics and "whining" frontman. It gets there. I'm starting to realize why people like Talking Heads. 3.5/5.
The vocalist sounds like he's whining, moaning, crying at times but the music isn't bad.
Psycho Killer was the only song I really liked.
Whenever we get a Talking Heads album I think of the adoring way Zach from Gilmore Girls says “David Byrne is a freak”. All respect to the freaks out there making weirdo art but this just didn’t do anything for me. Not particularly fun or interesting to listen to, just odd.
Fun record, simple yet fun. At parts it makes me think of what the Smiths might sound like if they enjoyed funk and were a bit happier. Psycho Killer is a great track
Decent album. Not a style of music I like
Psycho killer and a bunch of filler - most of it pretty pish. It doesn't help that David Byrne can't really sing that good (at this point in his career). Interesting though, and important due to the stature and influence of the band. A tricky one to score - forgive me for bottling it a bit!
Not my sound at all.
Was a chill album, didnt know it
Catchy. Puts you in a good mood. High 3.5 and low 4
Good bass and guitar
I enjoy Talking Heads, but this album sounds too immature to me. David Byrne's use of his voice is the most interesting component, while a lot of the instrumental work a bit boring and subdued. The more energetic tracks also happen to be the best but it's a few and far between. Best Songs: No Compassion, Psycho Killer, Pulled Up Listen Again: Not Really
Could not wait for this one to end. Only redeeming song is Psycho Killer, obviously.
yup!
Some bangers. Some snoozers. The Talking Heads always strikes me as a talented band trying real hard to be boring. Every now and then they fail and record something great, but a lot of it is just repetitive.
Punchy, quirky, sometimes catchy. A product of its time. But not something I'd repeat listen much.
W E A K
The rest of the music isn't nearly good enough to get over the voice.
The heads are talking I guess.
About what I would expect from the 77th album of the Talking Heads
Жирнющий образец нью-йоркского андера 70х. Такое ощущение, что нью-йоркский рок - это почти всегда эксперимент. Это классический рок-звук с новаторскими выкриками, фальшью в вокале, нетипичной перкуссией и провокационной лирикой со вплетением французского языка. Я отчетливо вижу место Talking Heads в нью-йоркской рок тусовке. Это более дерзко, чем The Velvet Underground, но, разумеется не так альтушно, как Sonic Youth. Альбом в списке заслуженно. Из музыки точно есть развитие в богозданные альт и панк. А так же есть развитие и в попсу с цепляющими эндлибами. Да ну и Psycho Killer просто убивает меня своим стилем. Добавил 5 треков
Delightfully strange choices all around on vocals and musically.
Nothing stood out at all
Solid album
I don't hate this album (mostly because I have a bit of a soft spot for David Byrne). This is a strange alternative punk record. Definitely not my favorite.
"Talking Heads: 77" is a remarkable debut album by Talking Heads, released in 1977. This avant-garde punk and new wave blend introduced the world to David Byrne's distinctive vocals and the band's quirky, intellectual lyricism. Tracks like "Psycho Killer" and "Uh-Oh, Love Comes to Town" stand out for their unique, angular sound and thought-provoking themes. The album's minimalist production complements its artistic intent, creating a distinct atmosphere. While it may not have achieved the commercial success of later Talking Heads works, "Talking Heads: 77" remains a pioneering statement in the post-punk movement. It earns a solid 4/5 for its groundbreaking and influential nature.
Really unique. Really fun. Makes me want to listen to more of them
I really like the Talking Heads and this album is no exception. Just solid songs from front to back.
One of the greatest debut albums in rock history. Unique, fun, and new.
It took me a while to enjoy this album. It took me a while to enjoy the Talking Heads as well. The expanded version of this album is better than the original version. The four songs (not including the acoustic "Psycho Killer") that are added in the expanded version are as good (and probably better) than the 11 original songs. I am definitely more of a "hits" Talking Heads fan than I am an album fan. I think this is an important album to hear even if you don't "get it."
An all time favorite album and for me, an all time debut album by a one of a kind band. Tina's basslines are just chunky as hell all over this record. I have gone blue in the face attempting to sign along to Book I Read and just about every other track on this one.
I generally like the Talking Heads, but this album wasn't as enjoyable to me as most of their other work. I was only familiar with "Psycho Killer," and that was easily my favorite track on the album. The guitar playing was fantastic throughout the entire album, and I love David Byrne's vocals too. Several songs had elements that I liked: the steel pan on "Uh-Oh, Love Comes To Town," the fluctuating tempo of "No Compassion," and the percussion on "First Week/Last Week... Carefree." Overall though, without those little elements, most of the songs on this album were pretty middle of the road for me. I still enjoyed listening to this album, but it's not a part of the Talking Heads' discography that I'll revisit.
Struck by the well defined Post-Punk aspects of this album, but how clearly headed towards the advent of New Wave they already are on their debute LP. I enjoyed this as someone who really doesn't dig New Wave (afaik!)
Not my jam.
groovy
I mean, Psycho Killer is cool. I'm not sure how much I like anything else on this album. I question how much I would like Psycho Killer without previous familiarity.
Decent 1st album; would listen again.
Already a banger, five outta five.
I didn’t know any of the songs other than “Psycho Killer,” but overall I liked the album. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I think David Byrne’s musical/vocal choices are so interesting, in a good way. I enjoyed comparing this early album to the Talking Heads’ later work.
3 talking heads albums so far, hope it’s front loaded because I’m not sure how many more albums I can handle. This album seemed a little better than Food & Buildings, but not much. It seemed like the lyrics are what I do when I don’t know the words to a song and just start making them up to sing along. I thought it was his voice that might irritate me after a while but I went back and listened to “Remain in Light” album and that wasn’t the case. There is something about these albums that I just don’t appreciate I guess. Remain in Light seems on a different level.
Talking Heads definitely have a really unique sound. But I think sometimes their unique sound gets kind of old. The songs on this album were all pretty good, but they kind of felt monotonous to me. I can see why Psycho Killer is one of their most popular songs though!
Psycho killer stood out.
UGH I love this album.
Legal porém meio subpujante dado os próximos álbuns
I love the Talking Heads so it was a treat to listen to this album all the way through. 5 stars!
Great album overall and the songs feel timeless. Psycho Killer is of course one of the greatest
Thisnshit sucked
paar banger sind dabei
This is what I'm doing this for. I knew of Talking Heads, but had never listened or been interested in listening to them, but now I've listened to this I have found a new favourite band. This is just a really great album, start to finish.
Pretty good. Not feeling it but its good music
dont like talking heads that much but they're starting to grow on me
It's not terrible, but aside from Psycho killer it really isn't anything worth returning to.
The albums's okay. Very much sounds like what I imagined early Talking Heads would sound like, having listened to the better albums first. Dunno if I'll spin it at a later point.
Pretty nice alt rock with hints of punk inspiration. I can appreciate it but it's not my jam.
You can hear how it influenced lots of the 80s. David Byrne may have started the whole new wave genre just by himself. I respect that. But I don’t like new wave. 3 stars
Probably their easiest album to get in to and my second Favourite after remain in light
Super Debütalbum, noch nicht ganz den Stil gefunden aber viel Verschiedenes, manchmal Hit or miss
gute laune
the talking heads. upbeat tunes with david byrne’s offbeat vocal style and quirky lyrics. kick ass bass lines. this album is a fun listen. highlights: “tentative decisions”, “no compassion”, “psycho killer”.
There are a couple of songs by the Talking Heads that I would not want anyone else to sing. Most of the rest, I'd want anyone else to sing.
3/5
I can agree with some of the folks saying that this is mid-tier Talking Heads to a degree, it's no Fear of Music/Remain In Light imo. But one band's 4th best album is still way the hell better than anything most bands could hope to put out. 🤘
I had heard several of their songs throughout my life not knowing the name of the band, or that they were from the same band All excellent and well heard. "Oh yeah! I know this song!"
Fun I'd listen to this again.
Fucking love the Talking Heads. What a debut album. To make objectively weird music patterns sound this tight is the biggest mark of a talented band you can possibly get. I think my favorite part about Talking Heads is how it sounds like they could break out into a jam session at literally any moment on any of their tracks. Favorite track: The Book I Read
Lame, except for ‘Psycho Killer’
not bad. Psycho Killer is the best track, no surprise. IDK if this really ranks 3 for me but I'll round up
Album rock new age, pas mon trip, mais je comprends. Voix un peu dur d'accrocher mais bonne musique, si un peu répétitive à mon goût
I wasn't sure about this album at first, but weirdly, the songs seemed to keep getting better toward the end of the album.
Talking Heads album! It’s also my brother’s birthday but this far outweighs that. Even though this isn’t even my first. Whatever Talking Heads are my band right now. I hadn’t heard this one before (outside of the obvious ‘Psycho Killer’, plus ‘Uh-Oh, Love Comes To Town’) but this is great; poppier, but still retaining elements of their best work. Some of my favorite songs other than the ones I had already heard are ‘No Compassion’, ‘The Book I Read’, and ‘First Week/Last Week….Carefree’. Though not the best of their albums, still amazing.
Very identifiable Talking Heads sound, iconic vocalist. Strange lyrics and sounds, but all around enjoyable. “Psycho Killer” will forever be a must listen. 3/5, no other tracks that I plan to come back to, but happy to have heard the album.
Funky new wave. It all kind of sounds the same. 3/5
Talking Heads is one of those bands that I did not appreciate when they first came out. I think many people see them as love 'em or hate 'em. They've grown on me over the years. Glad to revisit this album. A wonderfully weird debut album. "Psycho Killer" is likely the only song most people have ever heard of. The rest of the album is very good too.
Psycho killer is great, but the rest of the album doesn't reach their potential of what they will become in later albums
Very basic with one redeeming song.
Consistent all the way thru, unique sound, very charming and fun. Like an interesting weird guy beckoning you to follow him thru a mysterious door, behind which lies the rest of the Talking Heads' catalog.
Nice consistent album. Would go so far as to say I really enjoyed it and would listen again. This is an album that can be listened to as a single experience.
So far it's fun but maybe not living up to my premade expectations. Listened twice and nothing really jumped out at me.
Vocals not quite my taste Nice guitar/drum combos No Compassion/Psycho Killer/Sugar on my Tongue all bang
Really funky music, kinda a vibe, so many guitars Upbeat
Not my vibe. Didn't finish.
3
Talking heads
5/5
Love talking heads. And can’t argue against their debut being on the list, but they have a few better albums than this one that I tend to go back to more
Great guitar riffs, interesting lyrics, voice too much
Pretty enjoyable, standout track was the closer "Pulled Up"
Aquired taste. Some songs awesome. Knew it already.
I don’t vibe to it.
Hell yes. I've been listening to this for years, but sometimes their early albums sound like "the juvenalia leading up to Remain in Light". Actually this is an audacious good debut album. Arty weirdo rock that stays wildly carefree and fun. I love how the the lyrics, the voice and the music all have a tendency to tailspin into free association, then come back again. It's an incredibly satisfying record from front to back, and if the Talking Heads had stopped here it would still be a landmark album. 5*
Weird ngl
Great
just so so
Good vibes. Classic talking heads weirdness. Bit boring and background music. Enjoyed it, but didn’t capture my imagination.
I have never been a Talking Heads fan, but there really has been no one like them. A completely unique sound.
Ahead of their time for a US band, this album reveals the way forward for a nation trapped in country music and AOR.
Amazing, love David Byrne
It’s been a talking heads couple of days! I didn’t realize how not mainstream popular they were.. like they reached top 100 but not very high. I really like the talking heads. Not in a way that makes me want to listen to them with any regularity, but in a reverent and entertained way. It’s good stuff haha
Not fav th album but a good one for sure
Classic intro
Interesting early album, and quite a disco-oriented sound in parts (not on Psycho Killer though!). Striking, original, and would have sounded pretty out there in 1977 I imagine.
3.5
The two last tracks are really nice. The rest is meh. Not my type of music.
-omg its THE TALKING HEADS -very excited for this -i do know one song on this album (psycho killer) but thats it -this is a pretty short album compared to others i’ve listened to -this is pretty chill and groovy so far -this is nice to listen to but i don’t Love it, enjoying it tho -his voice has this strain to it that i kinda like -overall a 3 star for me
Love it love it love it
bangin
skoj
Was upbeat and cutting edge back when released. calypso synth pop
Let me tell you a story. At the beginning of this year, I was at a music camp, and we had a movie night at the camp. We watched David Byrne's American Utopia, and, well ... it blew my mind. Every moment of it was just so impactful. His lyrics were so simple, yet so meaningful. I knew one song, "Road to Nowhere," which he closed with. I'd already gone from being ambivalent towards the song to liking it, but it was only that night that I started loving it. I knew all the words, though, and sung along loudly. "Road to Nowhere" is such a classic. It's almost as good as it gets .... but only almost, because there was another song I heard that night, a song which I'd never heard before, that moved me even more. It was an a cappella vocal arrangement piece that, judging from the lyrics, I think was probably called "Better Days" (I didn't even look it up afterwards .... I can't believe myself!). It had tears streaming down my face. Anyway, as you're probably aware, neither of those songs are on this album. In fact, I'm not even sure if "Better Days" is a Talking Heads song (I'm thinking it might be a solo song of Byrne). Even though I had been meaning to get into Talking Heads ever since, I never ended up listening to any of their music. So I was really happy when this album was recommended to me. I wouldn't say I was wowed by the album, but I did enjoy parts of it. Their style is very unusual and can take a little getting used to for me. It can seem simplistic on the surface but when you dig deep, there's actually a lot going on. For me, the bassist is the absolute star of this album. I really appreciate creative bass playing, and the bass here is as innovative as it comes. To be honest, I don't know if I've ever heard bass this unusual, or interesting, or dynamic. Of course, Byrne is also great. Having watched his American Utopia, of course, it isn't surprising how much presence he has. But it's still incredible. I also just really like his voice. He's got this dramatic, operatic style that I have a tendency to really enjoy in singers, but never strikes me as too pretentious either. I just think that, while they felt brilliant in American Utopia, here, his lyrics feel like they were what had the least effort put into them. Not all his lyrics, though, mind you. And I'm well aware he does the "deceptively simple" thing and I might just be missing the point ... but there were several songs on here that just felt like uninspired love/sex songs. Of the type that too many rock bands on this list do. I'll use this, however, to segue into the fact that I did recognise at least one song from American Utopia. "Don't Worry About The Government" was one of my favourite songs in the movie. It's a perfect example of the "deceptively simple" thing I mentioned above. Is it satire? I think it is, although I'm not entirely certain. Either way, there's something weirdly moving about how detached the lyrics are. Come to think of it, I actually enjoyed most of the songs, although some only for the bass. The ones where I enjoyed the lyrics too were my favourites, though, because I'm a lyrics person ... and also because the bass was usually still great on them. I remember liking the song "No Compassion," which explored some interesting lyrical themes. I feel obliged to talk about "Psycho Killer," since it was the hit. What a weird song. I can't for the life of me figure out what it's about, but it's still a whole lot of fun. A whole lot of mindless, iconic fun. I sure hope there are more Talking Heads albums on their list. This album alone isn't enough for me to want to do a deep dive into their catalogue just yet, but I still want to hear more of their music and see how they progress. As this is only their first, I have a feeling they get, well, fa fa fa fa fa fa fa fa far better. Favourite tracks: Don't Worry About The Government, No Compassion
Classic rock is classic but this is something else. It’s not peak Talking Heads but goddamn is it first wave New Wave heaven. Pour it all over me.
4+/5
I always think of MTV when I see/hear Talking Heads, specifically the Once In a Lifetime song. At the time, I thought it was good, but now that we have listened to a couple albums by these guys, I don't really get it. Even the "big" hit Pyscho Killer is just OK. Nothing made me excited and nothing made me want to revisit or download. Found myself getting a little annoyed at his voice too. They do have a few very good hits. Swamp is absolutely a classic, along with And She Was. Outside of those, there is nothing else I find to be a must listen. Not for me. 2
77 features my favorite Talking Heads song: Psycho Killer! I heard that song for the first time during the credits of some shitty horror movie mockumentary that I can never remember the name of. Leslie Vernon maybe? Doesn't matter. Not much of the rest of this album holds up quite as well as Psycho Killer does. It has all of the Talking Heads tropes though which I know Luke hates! Not as catchy as their later work but it's listenable for sure. Psycho Killer earns it one star on its own. So I guess that means 4.
1.5 Speaking of the late 70s CBGB scene, here’s the worst group it has to offer. While I’ve never been the biggest of theirs to begin with, if there’s one thing this list has affirmed for me, it’s that I don’t like The Talking Heads. I swear they just write funk music for white people, and paired with David Byrne’s vocals, I’m beginning to find them unbearable. I don’t really have much to comment on these songs other than that the vast majority sound similar and are annoying. This very much has the feel of a debut album in sound and scope, and I have no idea why it made this list other than the fact that music critics seem to have a hard-on for these guys (and gal). The best track here is Psycho Killer, but that’s kind of by default - generally speaking, I would say the song is just okay. The only good thing it really has going for it is that it inspired the name for one of my favorite punk bands, who, when covering the song and not knowing what David Byrne was saying in the chorus (tbf neither do I), improvised the lyric “Hüsker Dü”. So, at least quality music was inspired somewhere down the line. Also, can we talk about how the first song is just a rip-off of Come and Get Your Love by Redbone? Monumental debut my ass. For all good things Lou Reed has created, this is not one of them.
1st song is very groovy. The marimba is an interesting addition. 2nd songs intro is good. 3rd song is not bad but a bit simple. Still funky chunky. Over time it gets better. Piano solo is 🤌🤌🤌. Not sure about happy day but it still is alright. Who is it? Is a bit better. No compassion is alright. Don't really like the book I read. The ending is alright. Psycho killer is a good classic. I like pulled up a lot. Love - building on fire is alright. Alot of repetition. I wish you wouldn't say that is pretty funky in a good way. Above average. I feel it in my heart has a funky groove behind it. Instrumentation is peak. Vocal brings it down a bit, but it's not too bad. Sugar on my tongue is pretty shit. Overall 4. The filler songs brought it down
definitely not as good as the other one
Definitely an album that broke down barriers for rock. Psycho Killer is an all time classic but the rest was a bit forgettable. Essential tracks: Psycho Killer (added to playlist)
8/10
Really good, with a bunch of classics in it.
He's enormously pleased with his own shtick.
Good, enjoyed it, "Psycho killer" was the highlight for me.
Faktisk nice
I was a big fan of Talking Heads during my very young years but never really dug deep into them, just always appreciated them. Fave track is easily Psycho Killer. I love the Carribean vibes on Uh-Oj Love Comes to Town, and Happy Day stands out for me.
Not as familiar with this album as some of their others - I guess, being their debut, their schtick is less polished. Fave track - I mean, "Psycho Killer" is an absolute choon, and holds a pretty iconic place in the culture at large, right!? Of the tracks that aren't so ubiquitous, "No Compassion" stood out on these listens....
ну сойдет.
Phenomenal band, but an ordinary album until Psycho Killer hit. Also really liked Love -> Building on Fire
Great album. New wave at it's finest.
Can’t stand David Byrne’s voice but the rest of the band is pretty tight. Credit them for taking the punk spirit with an arty approach without the nihilist attitude.
Sounds impressively contemporary for an album that's nearly 45 years old. A bit more polished and easy on the ears than I maybe expected for a debut (given that I only really knew Psycho Killer) but that's no bad thing.
I've been a fan of the big three (Fear of Music, Remain in Light, Speaking in Tongues) for 25 years. Other than Psyco Killer I've stayed away from records before and after, deemed too poppy by yourself truly. Problem is I've recently developed an affinity for 70s-early 80s pop. Obviously this is a supreme entry in any discography with just as much experimenting and quirky introspective lyrics.
Liked a good chunk of the tunes. 7/10
Meh. nope.
Great stuff, and my first time listening to their debut!
At some point singer's wailing seemed the one i overheard last week at the dentist. Didn't enjoy it.
nice
Another band I need to give more time to - this was excellent, chaotic, fun, punchy
Some resistance popped up as soon as I read "Talking Heads." I'm going to give this album an unbiased listen...here we go! Already grooving on the opening track, "Uh-Oh, Loves Comes to Town." The lead singer's voice isn't my favorite but let's see if it grows on me. Despite not liking the voice, these tracks are funky and have my body grooving. But grooving wasn't enough - I find the lead singer's voice very annoying, and I'm not a fan of the straightforward lyrics.
Love the new wave
Was actually quite enjoyable, strange lyrics and a bit whimsical but I’ll have to give it another listen - 7.2/10
fajn
Boring
I enjoyed this album. The lyrics and 70s style sound were pleasantly entertaining.
sounds a lot better than their other album. better constructed sound that works well. some catchy beats not necessarily a huge fan of the lyrics but they at least sounded good with the music. actually enjoyed some tracks. listened to the last track twice accidentally and didnt mind at all.
p382. 1977. 3.5 stars Musically there's lots to like here - new wave meets dance - but I can't be doing with David Byrne's voice, he sounds like he has a hernia. On the plus side, its short. Bonus point for Psycho Killer.
Interesting to learn about the formation of the band and how they grew out of the mid-70's NYC scene. Best fact is that Lou Reed told David Byrne to never wear short sleeves on stage because his arms were so hairy. It's eccentric and fun, was very unique upon release. Tina Wheymouth is such a good bass player and I was happy to hear a lot of her style on the album. Listening to the bonus tracks added a lot more depth to the record
Energising tunes accompanied by interesting lyrics. Fun music whilst dancing, cooking or cleaning.
Really found their sound early. Later albums get more introspective but damn.
Enjoyed seeing how many tracks I could listen to before playing Psycho Killer. It’s like a personal challenge, and not because the other tracks are weak. I also think that Who Is It? followed by No Compassion is another big bright spot in the album. Really fun overall.
Very much the shape of things to come. It’s impressive to hear a band kind of mail their sound on the first outing. That being said, large chunks of this album felt like filler. But there’s enough classic material that I’ll continue to come back to this one again and again. Not my favorite Talking Heads, but still a great record.
Great stuff. Not their best but definitely a blueprint. Pulled up is underrated!!
Similar to my listen of The Bends, it’s a lot of fun hearing the raw elements of the distinct sound of this great band prior to them really developing and merging with other influences. This album is much heavier on the art-rock genre stead of the deep New Wave of later releases. Some of the album cuts aren’t up to snuff with the quality of the rest of the album, but that’s because it’s a GREAT album! Songs like New Feeling, Pulled Up and Who Is It? are all time Talking Heads tracks and I feel like they’re very underrated. Yeah I can do without like First/Last Week but it’s not like tracks like that are BAD. Overall, great listen.
3.5
Good bops, but a lot of meh
Original, fresh, punky, funky for what feels like the origins of new wave music. Great listen! So ahead of its time for 1977. You could almost see them playing with Blonde and the Ramones on a triple bill at CBGB's.
Not my thing. The first album I turned off halfway.
Consistently danceable and witty, with a dose of urban anxiety. A fun record, with loads of songs I’d never heard before apart from Psycho Killer, but a set that really seems to establish the ethos of Talking Heads as bright, talented musicians who came to have fun.
Day 116 The Talking Heads are easily one of my favourite bands ever; those who know me well know that I don't drop "favourite" and "ever" within the same sentence that easily. And '77 is also one of my favourite debut albums ever. I know some may say that their following albums were "better"; in my opinion those other albums only improved on their formula, but this is a very accomplished debut, the band sounds fully formed, and all the elements of the next few albums were already there: steel drums and calypso rhythms on the opening track Uh-Oh, Love Comes to Town and more Latin on Tentative Decisions, the funk on New Feeling and Who Is It?, reggae and afro on First Week/Last Week... Carefree. And then the overall quirkiness, and especially the neurotic histrionics of Byrne, Psycho Killer being an all time classic, while No Compassion might as well be the perfect new wave song.
I found the quirks to be more annoying than interesting
I've always found David Byrne's voice walks that very fine line between quirky and annoying but as time goes by I'm very much on the side of enjoying it. I think it gives life to repeated listens to their songs that might grow stale sooner. Psycho Killer still sounds really fresh to me because i just really enjoy listening to his weird tics and phrasing
Perfect
Great album that epitomizes the post-punk, new wave genre. Psycho Killer is such a great song, with a driving bass line. Overall a great album
Very fun, I love the vibe. Not necessarily me but I liked it
‘Uh-Oh Love Comes to Town’ maybe set the bar too high as a first song, I was ready to announce a 5 straight away. That being said it’s a high 3, the whole album was enjoyable and whilst some songs were less memorable or the vocals got a bit grating it was still one I’d listen to again.
I like a lot of bands that were influenced by them, but I don't like the Talking Heads themselves as much. Singing is annoying. Songs are too monotonous. Not terrible, but it doesn't stick. Favorite song: who is it
Generický happy-go-lucky zvuk, vše zní stejně. Neurazí, ale ani nenadchne. To byl můj první dojem, ale upřímně, i když texty jsou celkem generické, zpracování je občas docela funky, takže si to udrží mou pozornost. Prostě to jen není styl, který bych byla schopná poslouchat celé dny. Některé písničky jsou docela zapamatovatelné, to jim nechám. Celé to evokuje nějakého trochu sociálně labilního jedince, který hledá lásku a je někdy trochu stalkerish, což není moc můj vibe. Ale i když se mi nelíbí text, může se stát, že melodie mě chytne (Sugar On My Tongue). Celkově asi chápu appeal této skupiny, ale já se vracet často nejspíš nebudu. Nejlepší písničky: Who Is It?, Psycho Killer, Sugar On My Tongue Nejhorší písničky: vše ostatní, co mě nijak nezaujalo Hodnocení: 7/10
Good, I know the album well. But I do feel I need to be in the mood for Talking Heads. Which I wasn't.
no le pude prestar atencion , pero solo conozco psico killer jeje, parece tener buen sonido
Talking Heads are the best band of their generation I reckon. Possibly till I remember another one and praise them similarly, but they are just on another level to most. The perfect blend of the best elements of a great record: jangly, art/punk/rock, intense, chilled, weird, strange, normal, all at once. Maybe not normal, they’re anything but normal. But they make the strange seem normal. I fell in love with Talking Heads after watching Stop Making Sense. They’re a bit like Sparks in a way where you need to see them to believe ‘em. That live show totally changed my outlook on music and nailed what it was I always liked about music but couldnt put down. I think this was their debut, which is mental for me to comprehend. They were young, in a world of punk, motown and glam rock, and they came up with this. Absolutely class. I also came up with what I think is the best football chant ever to the tune of Psycho Killer, all about the Sunderland defensive unit of 2011-2012, but alas it never caught on and would now require a lot of players coming out of retirement to ever see the light of day. I like to think David Byrne would be proud.
Completely on the talking heads train now. I bet all music critics constantly describe them as "irreverent" and there's a good chunk of my favourite bands that fall into that category. Was already giving it a 5 before psycho killer but that is the best track.
I think my music taste must have changed. I had heard this album before, some years ago, but when listening now I found it not nearly as exciting or interesting as I thought I was. A little disappointed. New Feeling and Love -> Building on Fire were irritating, The Book I Read meandering, Don't Worry About the Government lame. I did like Love Comes to Town, and Happy Day though. +1 star boost for Psycho Killer though, as it should be.
I don't get talking heads, really doesn't do anything for me. It's not like it's terrible, but just doesn't grab me. Too be fair, this was probably better than I was expecting, but still don't think it's for me and won't be going back 2.5
Really refreshing to hear this after a long time, not their best but it still rocks
It sounds like a Talking Heads album. Maybe I just wasn't in the mood today, but I got a bit bored.
The debut album from the Talking Heads, is a true classic of the NYC OG new wave error. This is stripped down, artsy, new wave at its best. It's weird and quirky at times, but that's what Talking Heads in 1977 were all about. By the time the 80s rolled around, the Heads had adopted world music pretenses and, while producing classics of the MTV era, were a very different kind of band. This is the Talking Heads at their most raw and most pure.
4/5 - Liked the grooviness. Vocals were interesting. I got kinda sick of it toward the end. But an artist I would explore more.
American new wave doesn't sound much different than British new wave. Generic, mediocre, and annoying.
banger after banger
Ya dije lo que tenia que decir la mezcla de funk, rock, jazz, un poco de todo que genera la new age, lo pioneros y estandartes de ser artists en este tenero y epoca. Un dusco que no va mas alla de lo que es, por lo simple h por lo concreto, pero consciente de eso delivera una gran performance 7/10
"Psycho Killer" an obvious high point here. Don't Worry About The Government is also great. A solid album, but Talking Heads hadn't quite hit their stride yet.
another one already in my library. 5 stars obviously
it's a nice album... music sounds good.. but it left absolutely zero impression on me. I don't even know how to rate it. three, i think... psycho killer is good but the acoustic is better. i can't remember any other song and they all sounded samey to me.
This was better than I expected! Way better. Wacky and really varied. 4/5
Let's be real, everyone only really knows Psycho Killer by Talking Heads and everything else is supplementary. All honesty, if it wasn't for how popular that song is, there wouldn't be that nostalgia that there is for them. Despite this Talking Heads 77 is a decent debut, with the sound of Brit Rock/New Wave, whilst being an American band. Best: Psycho Killer Worst: First Week/Last Week… Carefree Note: Spotify only had the Deluxe Version, I listened to the original 11 tracks from the album
Pretty decent early new wave/art-punk album. Nothing too memorable besides Psycho Killer, though.
This is the "art rock" template, at least as far as the general population is concerned. Incredibly innovative and catchy. Later records of theirs sold more, and perfected they're sound and concept, but this was the first.
This album must have been a big influence on some favorites of mine: Devo and They Might Be Giants. David Byrne has a unique voice that I find very appealing. Talking Heads is punk for clean cut kids.
Psycho killer la siento como una canción fuera del álbum, se siente diferente y es la que más me gustó.
'Psycho Killer' is still amazing and the rest of the album is pretty solid
Unique vocalists tend to be a hit or a miss, so when Byrne first opened his mouth, I felt apprehensive. "Uh-oh, Love Comes to Town" ended up being a strong opener - I love the tropical vibe - which assuaged my worries. For the most part, Byrne's vocals work well with the compositions, though there were moments where my enjoyment seemed to dip - "Happy Day" may just be what kept me from giving this the big ol' 5 star rating - though there were also moments that went above and beyond. "Psycho Killer" is delightfully devilish.
Hi there old friend! Man this album is just a really good time. There’s so much positivity in the music, and the majority of tunes here are crazy catchy. While certainly not the best Heads album, it’s a great debut and an absolute staple of new wave.
I haven’t quite cracked the code on why I can’t quite get behind Talking Heads, but it’s quite clear there no answers to be found in their sleepy debut.
talking heads' debut album released in 1977 has a cute title: talking heads: 77. but the actual album itself wasn't too exciting for me. my review for another of their albums allowed me to realize that i enjoy their hits but not much more. that holds true here, too. "psycho killer" is a certifiable bop of a song, but what sticks out the most is that talking heads replicate various aspects found in "psycho killer" into their other songs but nothing is as good or catchy. i did find myself intrigued because there's more funk than i expected (not mad about it).
I think I liked this Talking Heads album more than the previous one I received, but I am still not very enamored with them. I'm not sure what it is, but they just mostly come off as boring and sleepy to me. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love everything about "Psycho Killer"; it has been my long-standing favorite Talking Heads song, but the rest of the album just didn't live up to the hype that this song gives me. I will say, Talking Heads have always sounded very distinct to me, and on this debut album, that sound is just as present for them as it is on later albums. So again, props to a band who knew their sound from the very beginning. It just turns out that I'm discovering that that sound is mostly not for me. If I was JUST reviewing "Psycho Killer", this would be an easy 5 stars, but unfortunately the rest of the album drags the rating down for me.
I rank this album fifth best among the eight albums they made as a band. You'd think that a condemnation, but no -- this album is incredible. It's just that they kept getting better. The band sounds tight here, and with their signature herky-jerkiness already in place. But while Byrne's songwriting is already very good, it is clear that this is a debut; the songs are smart and interesting, but not as catchy or danceable as the output to come. They would go on to refine themselves, both as performers and songwriters, through a prolific amount of live performances. But this is where it started.
No es lo mejor de TH, hasta Psycho Killer tiene una mejor versión en vivo.
ganske ait
Not really my thing
Probably an unfair rating, but this is my least favorite band of all time. In college, when I would stay over at my girlfriends, a group of guys across would come home after a late night driving. They would proceed out onto their balcony and turn on their huge speakers and blast psycho killer. They did this every weekend. I hate that song.
Genuine amazement.
Love the Talking Heads, and "Psycho Killer" is an undeniable classic. The rest of the album doesn't measure up to that level, but it's the Talking Heads, so that still means the album's better than most. Rounding up from 3.5.
I remember having a Talking Heads phase & knew no one that enjoyed the band. They quietly became one of my favorites & I've appreciated them ever since. The whole album feels like one piece with Burning Down the House as it's standout. The video for that song was a core MTV moment for me. I remember trying to figure out the faces on the side of the house - what did it all mean? Talking Heads made great music. 4 stars
Not bad, but not great.
Ok, this is my second Talking Heads album now, and I’m no further forward with them than an asthmatic ant carrying some heavy shopping. I just…don’t get it. What’s the fascination? What do they bring? Why should this be blowing my socks off? Why doesn’t it? Why do I feel so nonplussed by it? I’m sure there will be another 300 of their albums to plod through so maybe better luck next time?
I like Talking Heads, I really do. However, during the fifth song, I thought “wow, the first track on this album is very long”. So there’s that.
I respect the vibes I just don’t exactly like them
todo un clásico
2/5. I understand the vibe and the crazy jump in rock music but the songs are just not super fun to listen to. You can tell there is potential for sure but David Byrne doesn’t feel like he knows what he’s singing about. Like someone told him to sing these songs. They’re fine but some can be quite annoying. Best song: Psycho Killer, New Feeling
Love talking heads but honestly let down. when their songs are bad they’re legit bad but their good ones are nice
Would have been a 4 if they didn't sound...nah I'm not going to say it.
I have a good buddy named Max who confuses the hell out of me sometimes. Some days I'll read a text he sent me and think to myself, "What in the name of Jesus Christ was going on in his head when he sent this?" It's never anything bad, just strange commentary. Up until this day I lived in eternal confusion. But now, I've finally figured it out - his brain is operated by a record player that only plays Talking Heads 77. Let me explain. It always starts with a very basic statement of what happened that day, is repeated to the point where you sense there's added significance to this basic statement, and then becomes oddly introspective and profound. Take the song The Book I Read, for example. "I'm writing 'bout the book I read; I have to sing about the book I read; I'm embarrassed to admit it hit the soft spot in my heart; When I found out you wrote the book I read." Now imagine that said to you unironically, without any musical backing. Max, you are an enigma, but that's what I love most about you. Keep being you.
C Uh-Oh, Love Comes to Town - 2 New Feeling - 3 Tentative Decisions - 3 Happy Day - 3 Who Is It? - 2 No Compassion - 1 The Book I Read - 3 Don’t Worry About The Government - 2 First Week / Last Week… Carefree - 3 Psycho Killer - 3 Pulled Up - 3 I don't really like the Talking Heads or this album, but it had some good moments. There were some low moments too. All in all, I don't understand the Talking Heads hype.
Just an alright record for me. I didn't actively dislike anything really but I didn't see any great reason to listen to this apart from the 2 best tracks - Psycho Killer which is cool but played so much throughout my life it's hard to not see it as radio filler/halloween novelty - Don't Worry About The Government which is legit an interesting song with a good hook and vibe
Good album couple of hits
This contains punk ethics, but abandons the abrasive & harsh tone sounding, adds much more intellectual stance delivered with very dancey shaking, and, even something or more that I'm not really able to recognize at first listening. Plus, within this formal rock group set up, the guitar isn't lead instrument anymore, and even soloing would be left out permanently in their later records. Fav Track: The Book I Read
Definitely much more my vibe than Remain in Light. Enjoyed the vocals more and the melodies were easier to follow this time around. Can definitely see myself listening to this album again.
25.05.2023
Ccccc
I wish I liked Talking heads more. Psycho Killer is a banger. But a lot of this was good, but same sounding.
This doesnt sound like a 70s album. There's no electronic like in later releases, but the whole album is undeniably Talking Heads. That said, the band has never struck a chord with me directly. I appreciate how good their sound is, but there isn't much making me want to listen again.
Geggjuð plata!
Love it
It's a five from me. Aside from the obvious banger Psycho Killer and Psycho Killer acoustic (which we managed to get the 1 year old to sing along to 🎶 ) I loved the debut album, Sugar on my tongue, First Week/Last Week and Pulled Up we're bangers too. I'm going to go listen to more and rewatch some YouTube Clips of them 🫠
knew Psycho Killer from RB2 and always thought it was a weird yet kinda enjoyable track. the rest of this album is exactly that but it got kinda tedious.
Would have loved to have heard this at the time. Talking Heads just totally did their own thing, didn't they?
Fantastic album
minne meg om vgs
Like kje Talking Heads, syns Psycho Killer e irriterande