Talking Heads - Speaking in Tongues
Following the dense, experimental polyrhythms of Remain in Light, Talking Heads returned in 1983 with Speaking in Tongues – an album that retained their signature art-rock intelligence and rhythmic complexity but channeled it into arguably their most accessible, funky, and commercially successful collection of songs. It was the sound of the band shedding some of their cerebral intensity for pure, physical groove.
Finding the Funk
While the Afrobeat and funk influences were present on previous albums, Speaking in Tongues embraced them fully. David Byrne's often cryptic lyrics took on a more abstract, chant-like quality, focusing on rhythm and sound as much as meaning. The core quartet – Byrne, Chris Frantz, Tina Weymouth, and Jerry Harrison – was augmented by an expanded lineup featuring stellar guest musicians like guitarist Alex Weir, percussionist Steve Scales, and keyboardist Wally Badarou (known for his work with Level 42 and Grace Jones), adding layers of funk and R&B sheen.
The result was an irresistible fusion of new wave, funk, pop, and world music influences. The interplay between Weymouth's infectious basslines and Frantz's tight drumming created deep, danceable grooves, while Harrison's keyboards and Byrne's rhythm guitar added intricate textures.
Anthems of Abstract Joy
The album yielded the band's biggest American hit, "Burning Down the House." With its nonsensical yet catchy chorus, driving synth hook, and explosive energy, it perfectly captured the album's blend of artistic quirkiness and pop sensibility. It became an MTV staple, aided by a visually striking music video.
But the album is far more than its lead single. "Making Flippy Floppy" is a masterclass in syncopated funk. "Girlfriend Is Better," with its iconic oversized suit moment in the concert film *Stop Making Sense*, delivers a slinky, insistent groove. "Slippery People" incorporates gospel harmonies (provided by Nona Hendryx) into its hypnotic rhythm. The ethereal "This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)" stands out as one of the band's most beautiful and heartfelt songs, a surprisingly straightforward love song built around a simple, repetitive synth pattern.
Art Pop Perfection
Speaking in Tongues marked a commercial peak for Talking Heads without sacrificing their artistic integrity. It proved that intelligent, unconventional music could also be incredibly fun and successful. The album's abstract lyrics, complex rhythms, and infectious grooves created a unique listening experience that was both mentally stimulating and physically irresistible.
It remains a high point in the band's celebrated discography, a perfect blend of art-school experimentation and pure pop-funk pleasure. A landmark album of the 80s.