TALKING HEADS Vinyl & CDs

Review: Talking Heads proudly reintroduce their iconic debut album, Talking Heads: 77, with the extensive Super Deluxe Edition, available in a comprehensive 3xCD + Blu-ray + Book format. This edition features a fresh AAA remaster cut directly from the original master tapes, ensuring that the album's unique sound is presented in the best possible quality. This release documents the evolution of the band, originally formed by David Byrne, Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth and later expanded with the addition of Jerry Harrison from the Modern Lovers. From the outset, Talking Heads: 77 distinguished itself within New York's vibrant CBGB scene, characterised by Byrne's distinctive, high-pitched vocals and the band's tightly wound yet dynamic instrumentation. Key tracks like the haunting 'Psycho Killer' and the upbeat 'Pulled Up' stand out. Spanning nearly three hours, the Super Deluxe Edition includes many rarities such as outtakes and unreleased alternate versions, along with a never-before-heard recording of their final CBGB performance on October 10, 1977. The accompanying Blu-ray features an immersive Atmos mix and various remastered formats. Housed in an elegant 80-page hardcover book, this edition includes new liner notes and rare photos, celebrating the band's influential legacy.

Review: The 40th anniversary deluxe reissue of Talking Heads' Stop Making Sense is a brilliant and complete package that truly is a tribute to this monumental release. Encompassing a double CD + Blu-ray set, it celebrates the enduring impact of Jonathan Demme's iconic concert film soundtrack. David Byrne reflects on how the live energy and audience inspiration infused these performances with a dynamism that often surpasses the studio recordings. The reissue brings this excitement to the forefront with improved mixes and sound quality for a next-level experience. This edition stands out with its Dolby Atmos soundtrack, mixed by Jerry Harrison and E.T. Thorngren, enhancing the auditory experience. Tracks like 'Psycho Killer' and 'Once in a Lifetime' pulsate with renewed vigor, while the inclusion of bonus tracks 'Cities' and 'Big Business/I Zimbra' adds to the appeal. This reissue not only revitalises the original live album but also introduces it to a new generation with unparalleled sound clarity. It's a fitting tribute to Talking Heads' innovative and electrifying performances.