Full album reaction for Aja out on Patreon: www.patreon.com/posts/55622332 Feels good to hit more talking heads, especially from this live performance!!! What’s next to hit from them?! 🔥🙌🏻
This is gonna be a boring response, but anything from Stop Making Sense because the versions from that movie are always better than the album versions. If I were to choose two more from SMS, I'd go with "Slippery People" and "Girlfriend Is Better".
Guys, I have been waiting for you to do Aja for ALL THE MINUTES - but I can't get into your patreon!! They won't let me reset my password. I just wanted to see your faces during Steve Gadd's drum solo!!! I'll keep at it.
PETER GABRIEL is the guy you want for live theatrical performances. Interesting stage presence and also some of the best music videos ever ! Truly fun. "Sledgehammer" is good place to start. As far as THE TALKING HEADS my clear favorite song is "THIS MUST BE THE PLACE (NAIVE MELODY) " which had a mild resurgence when the Ryan Gosling movie "Lars and the real girl" came out in the mid 2000s. Great song.
David Byrne is one of a kind. He’s like if the weirdest, nerdiest kid in school moonlighted as the cool, charismatic leader of a funk band. I’m so glad you guys are finally going to watch this incredible film.
This happens before the midway point of the movie. The final trio of songs - Girlfriend Is Better, Take Me to the River, and Crosseyed and Painless - is absolutely stunning. You've only scratched the surface of the movie so far. You definitely want to see the whole thing.
Often in the midst of the chaos of the Talking Heads it is easy to forget that Tina Weymouth is truly an amazing bass player that lays the foundation for their music, often providing the "melody".
she is one of the reasons I taught myself to play bass. psycho killer is probably the first song I learned. her style is very different but her, McCartney and John Paul Jones are 3 of my favorite bassists. Byrne treated her like shit and that's ultimately what broke the band up. apparently he's a real asshole.
This film is one of the weirdest great things ever captured on film, by a masterful director. I would say just go into it cold, and move with the experience. Catch the lyrics later. Talking Heads are a complex art thing, so you simply cannot absorb it all in one go. They are unique. The clubs they mention were the New York scene they played in early days, while building a cult following.
Yes a dive bar they used to live on top of pretty small venue that had everything from country to punk I saw the Ramones there a couple of times 10 songs in a half hour CBGB Country Blue Grass Blues a lot of people that were or would be famous used to hang out there.
@@mikewoodrow5878 The theater near my old place outside Boston played The Last Waltz, Gimme Shelter, and this, Stop Making Sense, in a 3 shot. This one closed out the night and people were going nuts in the theater, kind of like it was just a real Talking Heads concert.
@@sydhamelin1265 I used to love those double and triple bill movie theatres. Heavy Metal/Wizards or Kids Are Alright/ Quadrophenia or Monterey Pop/Woodstock “nights slash mornings”. Those were the days. Peace from Toronto!
"Life During Wartime" is a *deadly serious* song wrapped in an *incredibly fun, life-affirming* groove. The same could be said of many Talking Heads songs. This band, simply, was comprised of lyrical and musical genuises, and as shown here, they were one of the best live bands ever (with crucial help here from Parliament-Funkadelic's great keyboardist and other top-tier musicians).
This band was a huge influence at that time. Movie soundtracks, clothing style, the slightly frantic vibe of those days. David Byrne is still performing. He’s a phenomenal artist.
To Andy's comment about them dancing during the video: It came off as joyful but they were running (mostly running in place), in line with the lyrics about trying to escape etc.
And the drum claps sound like explosions and gunfire, which "startle" the protagonist as he sings, while the keyboard solos are almost like air raid sirens.
@@ericwillison1389 lol. Not sure, i do not remember you from another channel. but i am guessing we have talked before from your comment. Not too weird, there ain't that many good ones. We are probably about the same age. I am 55.
"Stop Making Sense" has been praised as one of the best, if not THE best concert films ever made. And don't get too hung up on the lyrics, guys, you can usually make out what he's singing. Yes, they're fun, creative and often provocative, but it's really all about the vibe.
I disagree. Stop Making Sense is a great concert film, possibly the greatest, but it's not Taking Heads at their best live. The concert in Rome in 1980 is far superior, less 80s, much more raw and dangerous sounding. That version of Crosseyed and Painless is much better.
@@ptolemyauletesxii8642 You can't disagree. Both of my statements concerned personal preference. There was no objective fact for you to disagree with. But thank you for sharing your opinion.
@@throwabrick Then why didn't you tell Bob he can't agree? I was actually disagreeing with Bob, to be fair, but it was my mistake not responding to his comment.
"This Must Be The Place" where David explores the uneasiness of getting married and settling down. All the doubts that come with it..."I guess we must be having fun".
"They are weird but in such a cool way." Congrats Alex, you just described the Talking Heads perfectly. This was an outstanding reaction gents. Psycho Killer next.
They've done two Talking Heads songs and haven't really liked either of them. Psycho Killer, a demo version, and Burning Down the House. They need to hear more from Fear of Music and Remain in Light. Those might make them Talking Heads fans.
Some friends took me to see this movie in an independant theatre in Melbourne Australia. I was 24 and just discovering Talking Heads. We sat down and watched the previews, then the movie started. 50 people, including us, got up and moved to the front, and danced for the whole movie. Was an awesome experience I'll never forget.
“Stop Making Sense” is maybe my favorite concert film ever. David Byrne’s attention to detail is so exact that even the mic stands were painted flat-black. Truly a magnificent film - would be a great reaction Patreon moment.
Still remember David Byrne on Letterman describing the opening song where he is by himself. He had programmed a beat into a boom box and every time the drums hit, he does this violent full body twitch. Letterman looks at him and says "You may need a complete check up."
It was such a chaotic time, the tail end of the 70's erupting in messy spatters into the 80's. It was a constant state of catch-up, your hair was wrong, your clothes were ill-fitting and out of place and music was changing by the hour. What was cool yesterday was hopelessly passe the next. All of a sudden, people started popping up with boatloads of money, all shiny and glittering and dripping with gold. It was a drug fueled, manic frenzy and you could try to keep up or be lost by the wayside. This song perfectly encapsulates that time.
Finally. This is what we've been telling you guys. You gotta *experience* Talking Heads not just listen. They are performance art, rock, punk, funk, dance, all rolled up into one. And yes the energy is maintained pretty much the entire movie. The band is unbelievable, and the brilliant eccentricities of David Byrne is mesmerizing throughout. Total command of the stage. Definitely do it on Patreon. Give me a reason to come back (even though I have the movie). Would love to see your reaction.
"This ain't no party, this ain't no Disco, this ain't no fooling around". No truer words have been sung....ha ha. "Burning Down The House" is my favorite from them.
All Talking Heads performances are entertaining like that. Burning Down the House is my favorite, but Once in a Lifetime or Psycho Killer are great tracks.. and yes you always need to read their lyrics. Great songs.
The Talking Heads are the "Quintessential 80s Alt Band That Started in the 70s". They truly defined (and kinda led) that cutting edge, alt-rock aesthetic of the heady 1980s.
"Stop Making Sense" is definitely in the top five, maybe even top three best movies of a single band performance live. However it's Martin Scorsese's "The Last Waltz" that is the film that set the bar really high. Very different musically and atmospherically then this, but came first and is equally remarkable. The Simon & Garfunkel Live At Central Park is far less cinematic than these two, but I know many friends that would vote for it as it too is another great show registered in film, that marked a moment in time for many people.
@@marcribe6483 Yes, there's an element of taste here. I've seen The Last Waltz and I would never argue with someone putting that as the best. Stop Making Sense was so riveting. It was like an unforgettalbe experience. To me it will likely always be the best.
@@RonD108 Yes, we are talking about something subjective like "top favorites". Just would like to add that I did see both movies in the cinema at the time of release thus taking part of all the atmosphere and relevance of its time. I imagine that this factor might help weigh in favor moreso than taste itself. I mean, I have more Talking Heads records than The Band records. To my mind its not about how much I'm loving the band. It's about the impact made at the time and on me in particular. Still very subjective and there is always some level of taste involved, be it musical, cinematic, or what-have-you. But like I said in the beginning, Top 5 if not Top 3; both of them. So we're not so far apart either. Stay safe, stay healthy, stay well.
You have to watch Stop Making Sense even if you don't review it, what a great show! Seeing David Byrne in the Big Suit is priceless. And Tom Tom Club, two for one!
The original nerdy hipsters I was at one of these shows at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, December 1983. It was one of the best concerts I've ever been to. The seats were empty, because everyone was up on their feet dancing.
I was just in Hollywood last week! Got family in Orange County and the San Diego metro. We had an auction to attend in Hollywood so stayed there for a few nights. Got to see a concert at the Troubadour! I was so excited. Historic night club.
@@burmajones803 That’s really great Eric. Yessir. The Troubadour was where the Laurel Canyon folk pop scene was buzzing back in the sixties. A lot of artists played there. I saw a few shows there in the eighties, but I don’t remember who I saw. My excuse is I saw so many concerts in Hollywood, I forget which venues I saw which artists at. Example, I always mix the Whiskey-a-Go-Go up with the Roxy, which are on the same block on Sunset Strip, and a tad bit similar interiors. Fun times!
The song, while lyrically talking about "life during wartime" is metaphorically about life on the road as a touring band, doing major shows, changing hairstyles to fit trends, being "large then life" and not really being yourself but the "star". Sleep during the days on the tour buses, work nights doing the shows. They aren't a "small" band anymore doing clubs (CBGB's) in their home town, but doing big shows all across the USA. Stay away from windows to avoid photographers, so busy they don't have time to do what they love (listen to music, write music, etc...). Lots more metaphors in the lyrics comparing being in a touring band to being on the run during a war.
If you wait a couple of months to watch the greatest concert video ever filmed you will ask yourself, "why the hell did we wait so long?" The concept is like nothing you've ever seen before and each song shows the genius that is David Byrne. Visually, aurally and conceptually, this concert stands at the very peak of the mountain of live performances.
@@Ivehadenuff Really? You think? I dunno man, the first verse is about selling weapons on the down low and hearing violence going on nearby. Doesn't sound like "band tour" reality, to me..
@@brianegendorf2023 listen again “This ain’t the Mudd Club, or CBGB’s (two dive bars inNYC that many famous bands played at the start of their career), I ain’t got time for that now”. I used to go to CBGB’s. It was gross and the band room was worse.
@@Ivehadenuff Yeah, but when you frame it with the rest of the lyrics and how many times he's changed his appearance and gun fire and not being smart to be near windows.. that one line is just mean to indicate that what he's doing is serious business and not having fun..which going to a concert would be.
Lyrically, many of Talking Heads songs are stream-of-consciousness....Life During Wartime being a possible exception....but everything is compelling. You won't be disappointed by the rest of Stop Making Sense!
I was a college student in the early 80's. We all feared that the world would be destroyed in a nuclear holocaust. A lot of punk/new age music reflected that. At the same time, we were all about dancing and partying as an escape. So it wasn't unusual for songs with doomsday lyrics to have a great dance beat. I saw the Stop Making Sense concert movie in the theater. All my friends were blown away, and we played the album nonstop.
This is the greatest American rock band of all time in my opinion. Not my favorite, but I think they were the best. They were ahead of their time and will still sound contemporary 50 years from now.
@@HamiltonRb other bands might connect with me more, and thus are my favorites, but I don't necessarily consider them to be the best from a critical standpoint. The Replacements and the Clash are my two favorite bands, and I think they both are quite good, but I don't think either of them are the greatest band of all time. It isn't really a difficult concept to grasp, is it?
@@burmajones803 I wouldn’t put any of those three bands in my top ten, but everyone has their own taste in music I suppose, and possibly coming from a different era factors in too
Found this concert about a year ago and find myself revisiting every month or so. Simply brilliant! Don't get caught up watching David too much but listen to the great music the band is putting out. Thanks for posting! I love it!
so glad you'll be checkin out the movie...David is a genius in his own quirky way...he once wired an abandoned warehouse and tied it all into a keyboard so you could literally play the building like an instrument...a performance artist/master musician....spot on gents....peace
Your 2nd comment: "Where do you go from there ... where do you start before there?" pretty much sums up Stop Making Sense. I'm a theatre director and watching this movie early in my career taught me so much. This song appears about 1/2 way through - and without giving it all away, your question is basically the premise of the movie. You'll see how they start, and how it builds. The takeaway is an invaluable lesson in artistic composition, regardless of medium. Absolutely brilliant movie/performance.
Talking Heads were artists first, musicians second… and that’s not taking ANYTHING away from the music. What a fresh, quirky, important band. Groundbreaking.
I saw this movie in the theater the weekend it came out. Full surround stereo turnt all the way up. The infectious on screen energy totally transferred to the in-theater audience. One big party! Everyone came out grinning bopping and feeling like we had been to a live concert.
David Byrne - so often weird, always cool. My daughter, who is 37 now, saw Talking Heads in concert maybe 10 years ago in New York and she said it was the best show she had ever seen, and she's been to a LOT of shows.
Had the pleasure of actually being there during this filming. Got my boyfriend tix for his birthday. (A happy accident that his gift is now memorialized on film. 😊🎂)
Arguably the best live concert video. I saw this when it came out and the entire theater was dancing almost through the entire movie. Nothing but joy and smiles.
I was there! They were my favorite band in the late '70s-early '80s. The expansion of the band from a four-piece to about a 10-piece came as a shock to everybody in the audience. I had seen them numerous times before that. David Byrne was very entertaining. Best song: The Great Curve.
I got to see David Byrne solo in concert once in a small club in Dallas, and I got to stand right up front and center about 20 feet in front of him and on the same level as the stage. It was like he was doing the concert for me. Incredible.
The keyboard player from Talking Heads and the drummer from The Cars got their start in a band called Modern Lovers, you should definitely check them out at some point "Pablo Picasso", "Road Runner" or "Astral Plane" would be good starting points.
🤯 I'll never forget seeing them in the early 70's at CBGBs singing "This ain't no Mudd Club or CBGBs", 😂 we all shouted back "YES IT IS" which made David smile! 😏 #TrueFact IZIMBRA was my 1st Talking Heads 45', cause it was on CBGBs jukebox! 🤦🏿♀️ I'm old 🤷🏿♀️ do they still have jukeboxes in bars? 🤦🏿♀️ Im real old... 🐰
Have seen David Byrne 3 times, in late 90s, then about 6 years later, and lastly about 2018. All 3 are among the best concerts I've seen. First time I saw him the percussion section was like 6 people and totally blew me away with the latin-inspired stuff they were doing. Last time there was no kit, the drums were done like a marching band drumline. Weird in a cool way is right!
Glad you guys got to this. This was one of my favorite songs as a teenager The energy level of the concert is amazing. As for the lyrics. They are from the perspective of urban terrorists David Byrne will often give unusual perspective in his lyrics much Randy Newman or Warren Zevon. Also the drummer and the bass player are married. They had a side project called the TomTom Club. A couple of those songs show up in this concert. As for reading lyrics ahead of time it might not be a bad idea. If you can do a little research on the songs without hearing them. But most of all just enjoy the party.
Thanks for giving Talking Heads another chance. Loved watching this. The movie Stop Making Sense, where this clip is from, has been a midnight movie classic in theaters across the country since the movie came out in the mid-80s. In lots of places the film ends up becoming a dance party, which is why it's still shown in theaters today. Check it out at a theater if you ever get a chance.
I saw them in NYC when they had just started as a trio, David on acoustic guitar . I visited their loft. It as on Christie Street. It was a HUGE empty concrete room. Two sheets hanging from the ceiling made their bedrooms . I even told David that I wanted to join Talking Heads. He and I jammed in his tiny railroad apartment shortly later, and I was so nervous that I totally blew it, coulda been Jerry Harrison. It still haunts me.
You have to do the whole thing on Patreon. You'll see they have lots more. It's completely choreographed - Chris Franz had to drum based on a click track because the final film is a composite of several performances.
I saw the heads when they toured building this show up. David climbed up on top of a stack of speakers at one point, realized they were not strapped down (he was probably 15 feet up in the air), he smiled and started dancing from the waist up for a couple of seconds, then carefully climbed down. Without a doubt, best concert I've ever seen.
You absolutely must review the entire film. This song closed the first set. Everything that came before built to this moment. In the second set they start over, and then build to an even higher, more creative and more manic conclusion. This is the ultimate concert movie. I was privileged to see them on this tour. The film captures the live experience precisely.
Love this performance. Glad you got to see it Tina the bass player wrote all their songs. I love at the end how he says "any questions?" and then the lights go out. Your question ain't getting answered, it's wartime.
This is "core" Talking Heads, not the later hits that got played on MTV. Concentrate on the first four albums: '77, More Songs..., Fear of Music, and Remain the in Light. All classic weirdness
Yes! I was surprised and bummed by your reaction to Burning Down The House -- my favorite TH song -- but I'm happy you gave them a second chance and "got it." I have this album, it's quite good.
From an interview - keep in mind the song was released in '79: 'Byrne’s vision of the future, as expressed to NME at the time of the record’s release, was striking in its accuracy: “There will be chronic food shortages and gas shortages and people will live in hovels. Paradoxically, they’ll be surrounded by computers the size of wrist watches. Calculators will be cheap. It’ll be as easy to hookup your computer with a central television bank as it is to get the week’s groceries.”'
"Weird in such a cool way" is the perfect description of Talking Heads. To hear them at their peak, check out their two best albums: Fear of Music and Remain in Light. "Life During Wartime" comes from Fear of Music; "Paper", "Memories Can't Wait", "Air" and "Heaven" are other standouts. Remain in Light is much funkier, with one great song after another, including megahit "Once in a Lifetime", as well as featuring the electrifying guitar work of Adrian Belew (who can make his stratocaster sound like any animal in the zoo).
Definitely the movie is the way to go with Talking Heads. When we had a film festival here, pre Covid, Stop Making Sense was played on the giant outdoor screen to open the festival each year. People came to see it and dance along. Often the same people every year.
“Stop Making Sense” is (only saw it once) permanently stored in my memory… you’ll never see anything like this again. “Burning Down the House” is incredible, and then, it just gets better. I must find the time to watch it again… ☮️
When this movie came out, it was widely regarded as THE GREATEST CONCERT FILM OF ALL-TIME! Decades later it MUST STILL be in the TOP 5 of anyone who has ever experienced it in it's entirety. The staging of it itself is part of the choreography. Starts with just Byrne, an acoustic guitar and a small ghetto blaster on the floor. One instrument Is brought out over time to slowly add performers to the stage, eventually the Drum riser is rolled out, all executed brilliantly!THIS is the1st Talking Heads Heads Song I ever heard in way back in 1979, from the Album "FEAR OF MUSIC". David Byrne is a Bona Fide Genius, as you will soon discover by taking a deep dive into one of the foundational Acts that built NYC's CBGB'S! OMFUG!
The best concert film of all time. Definitely check out the whole film. It starts with just one man, David Byrne, alone on the stage. and throughout the show the band grows around him, one instrument at a time, with more and more stage elements, lights, video, intensity, etc. being added continuously throughout the 90 minutes. And this song here is only about halfway through the show. As you said, It's all very organic as the "choreography" started out as improvisation which stuck as they did the show over-and-over during their tour. The storytelling comes more from the construction of the concert as a whole. And it is increadibly energetic and fun to watch the whole way through. Definatly a great concert to check out all in one go. I think I suggested it on Patreon a few months back. Regarding the lyrics, I think most of the lyrics are pretty easy to understand... although maybe going through them after watching the film? But chopping up the concert would really impair the experience of the show I think.
This concert is the best example of what can happen when you put four art students together and form a band. The full concert has a creative concept, the music is super energetic and genuine, and the visual aspects are amazing -- I just can't rave about it enough. What's also amazing is that David Byrne is still performing at this level, nearly four decades later: American Utopia on Broadway. I wasn't alive during the Stop Making Sense tour (soo thankful they filmed it), but I did see American Utopia and it is most definitely on par. Seeing David Byrne live should be on everyone's bucket list!
Full album reaction for Aja out on Patreon:
www.patreon.com/posts/55622332
Feels good to hit more talking heads, especially from this live performance!!! What’s next to hit from them?! 🔥🙌🏻
The Great Curve from their 1980 Rome performance. An astounding show. Their best in my opinion.
Next? Nothing from them. They suck!
This is gonna be a boring response, but anything from Stop Making Sense because the versions from that movie are always better than the album versions. If I were to choose two more from SMS, I'd go with "Slippery People" and "Girlfriend Is Better".
Guys, I have been waiting for you to do Aja for ALL THE MINUTES - but I can't get into your patreon!! They won't let me reset my password. I just wanted to see your faces during Steve Gadd's drum solo!!! I'll keep at it.
PETER GABRIEL is the guy you want for live theatrical performances. Interesting stage presence and also some of the best music videos ever ! Truly fun. "Sledgehammer" is good place to start. As far as THE TALKING HEADS my clear favorite song is "THIS MUST BE THE PLACE (NAIVE MELODY) " which had a mild resurgence when the Ryan Gosling movie "Lars and the real girl" came out in the mid 2000s. Great song.
"It was weird in such a cool way."
Alex described Talking Heads the way we all felt back in the day.
Amen brother
I think it is cool in such a weird way.
Like DEVO
… pretty much all of the 80’s
David Byrne is one of a kind. He’s like if the weirdest, nerdiest kid in school moonlighted as the cool, charismatic leader of a funk band. I’m so glad you guys are finally going to watch this incredible film.
I’m stealing your perfect description of David Byrne. Perfect.
David Byrne is a genius on how he combines sound and visuals. The songs need to be viewed to get the full expression.
He’s admittedly on the autistic spectrum. Explains a lot. Incredibly creative. Still is.
This happens before the midway point of the movie. The final trio of songs - Girlfriend Is Better, Take Me to the River, and Crosseyed and Painless - is absolutely stunning. You've only scratched the surface of the movie so far. You definitely want to see the whole thing.
True that! This is up there with The Band's "The Last Waltz"(1978) and "Jazz on a Summer's Day" (1959) as far as great lve concert films.
Beyond fabulous.
Crosseyed and Painless is an off the rails brilliant live performance.
@@sydhamelin1265 This song, that tour and that album changed my life.
Definitely one of the best concert films ever. You have to watch the whole thing. Words cannot convey.
Often in the midst of the chaos of the Talking Heads it is easy to forget that Tina Weymouth is truly an amazing bass player that lays the foundation for their music, often providing the "melody".
Tina Weymouth rules.
I just said the same thing...more or less
Made even more amazing to think she only took up the instrument as a favor to the drummer, who she eventually married.
she is one of the reasons I taught myself to play bass. psycho killer is probably the first song I learned. her style is very different but her, McCartney and John Paul Jones are 3 of my favorite bassists. Byrne treated her like shit and that's ultimately what broke the band up. apparently he's a real asshole.
@@ucanbobonthis Apparently he was like that to all the band members.
"Does anybody have any questions?" Gotta love David Byrne. Your cardio has to be on point to play with Talking Heads.
It's well known that the Heads were substantially augmented with Bolivian marching powder throughout this tour.
@@daveguy11 yup lots of nose candy
I think they invented the running man dance
This film is one of the weirdest great things ever captured on film, by a masterful director. I would say just go into it cold, and move with the experience. Catch the lyrics later. Talking Heads are a complex art thing, so you simply cannot absorb it all in one go. They are unique. The clubs they mention were the New York scene they played in early days, while building a cult following.
Couldn't agree more. The boys shouldn't be hesitant about this. Take a friggin' chance, already! The film is amazing beginning to end.
Yes a dive bar they used to live on top of pretty small venue that had everything from country to punk I saw the Ramones there a couple of times 10 songs in a half hour CBGB Country Blue Grass Blues a lot of people that were or would be famous used to hang out there.
My whole dorm saw this at the theater back in the day. Everyone danced in the aisles throughout the movie.
This is a classic movie "Stop Making Sense". Every song is different and the creativity of the movie is off the chart from beginning to end.
Directed by Demme - considered to be as strong a “concert film” as The Last Waltz.
@@mikewoodrow5878 The theater near my old place outside Boston played The Last Waltz, Gimme Shelter, and this, Stop Making Sense, in a 3 shot. This one closed out the night and people were going nuts in the theater, kind of like it was just a real Talking Heads concert.
Yeah, every song is somehow its own thing and just as great. Start to finish.
@@sydhamelin1265 I used to love those double and triple bill movie theatres. Heavy Metal/Wizards or Kids Are Alright/ Quadrophenia or Monterey Pop/Woodstock “nights slash mornings”. Those were the days. Peace from Toronto!
Had the pleasure of being there at the filming (unknowingly). Had bought my boyfriend tix for the concert for his birthday. A happy accident.
"Life During Wartime" is a *deadly serious* song wrapped in an *incredibly fun, life-affirming* groove. The same could be said of many Talking Heads songs. This band, simply, was comprised of lyrical and musical genuises, and as shown here, they were one of the best live bands ever (with crucial help here from Parliament-Funkadelic's great keyboardist and other top-tier musicians).
This band was a huge influence at that time. Movie soundtracks, clothing style, the slightly frantic vibe of those days. David Byrne is still performing. He’s a phenomenal artist.
You MUST MUST watch Slippery People video from this movie. The vinyl version not as good in my opinion ❤️❤️❤️
I saw him just a couple of years ago. Still weird and amazing! Loved every minute, couldn't stay seated.
I think the slightly frantic vibe of those days had something to do with cocaine. Certainly did with the Heads.
@@garyschill7923 yeah we all loved our speed back then.
@@joannasunday Makes me wonder what we were in a hurry to do?
Stop Making Sense is PURE JOY from start to finish. I can't express how much I love it.
100%!
To Andy's comment about them dancing during the video: It came off as joyful but they were running (mostly running in place), in line with the lyrics about trying to escape etc.
Ahaa! Thx.
well, that, and they were all geeked out on lots of cocaine for this.
@@olpossum5186 As was the entire audience...
And the drum claps sound like explosions and gunfire, which "startle" the protagonist as he sings, while the keyboard solos are almost like air raid sirens.
Per David Byrne: “I wanted to write a song about the daily life of an urban guerilla…”
Brilliant show! Top 5 ever!
"So weird, in such a cool way". You just nailed the Talking Heads.
As soon as he said that I had the same reaction.
Is it surreal that we are reacting to the reactors?
@@ericwillison1389 lol. Not sure, i do not remember you from another channel. but i am guessing we have talked before from your comment. Not too weird, there ain't that many good ones. We are probably about the same age. I am 55.
Finally, you're giving the Talking Heads the respect they deserve ...
Something to note: your first ever listen to Talking Heads best single only happens once in a lifetime.
Good one.
"Once in a lifetime" ... nice reference! 😁
😂😂😂
We see what you did there. 😆
This must be the place for a naive melody as well.
"Stop Making Sense" has been praised as one of the best, if not THE best concert films ever made. And don't get too hung up on the lyrics, guys, you can usually make out what he's singing. Yes, they're fun, creative and often provocative, but it's really all about the vibe.
Absolutely the greatest concert film ever IMO
I would say Woodstock and The Last Waltz were the two greatest, but we all have our preferences
Between that and the last waltz.
Only if you like the band to begin with…
you mean "unless you hate the band to begin with".
Stop Making Sense is a Top 10 movie for me, any genre.
The finale, "Crosseyed and Painless" still gives me goosebumps it's so good.
Agreed. “Crossed and Painless” is possibly the greatest finale of any concert I’ve ever been to.
I disagree. Stop Making Sense is a great concert film, possibly the greatest, but it's not Taking Heads at their best live. The concert in Rome in 1980 is far superior, less 80s, much more raw and dangerous sounding. That version of Crosseyed and Painless is much better.
@@ptolemyauletesxii8642 You can't disagree. Both of my statements concerned personal preference. There was no objective fact for you to disagree with.
But thank you for sharing your opinion.
@@throwabrick Then why didn't you tell Bob he can't agree?
I was actually disagreeing with Bob, to be fair, but it was my mistake not responding to his comment.
@@ptolemyauletesxii8642 Adrian Belew is godlike in the Rome film. And Tina floats above it all like an angel.
"This Must Be The Place" where David explores the uneasiness of getting married and settling down. All the doubts that come with it..."I guess we must be having fun".
"They are weird but in such a cool way." Congrats Alex, you just described the Talking Heads perfectly. This was an outstanding reaction gents. Psycho Killer next.
They did the studio version a couple of years ago and did not like it.
@@TheBTG88 I didn't remember that. I guess the live performance was a difference maker.
They've done two Talking Heads songs and haven't really liked either of them. Psycho Killer, a demo version, and Burning Down the House. They need to hear more from Fear of Music and Remain in Light. Those might make them Talking Heads fans.
@@darrens2558 Just to clarify, he was pointing out that Andy and Alex reacted to the studio version of Psycho Killer, not Life During Wartime.
@@clintonsmith5163 gotcha...I didn't realize they did any Talking Heads songs.
Some friends took me to see this movie in an independant theatre in Melbourne Australia. I was 24 and just discovering Talking Heads. We sat down and watched the previews, then the movie started. 50 people, including us, got up and moved to the front, and danced for the whole movie. Was an awesome experience I'll never forget.
My friend Ednah is one of the background singers
"Social Commentary Zumba" should be the alternate title to this song 😆
Great reaction Gents!
I'm too old to know what that means
@@vincentschmitt7597 Zumba is a dance-based workout. Social commentary is self-explanatory.
I must be too old. I thought it was Zoomba.
@@JSBIRD69 I might be too old and misspelled it LOL!
@@junietunes2148 Nope, I just checked and you are correct.
OMG...I've never been wrong before...the shame!
“Stop Making Sense” is maybe my favorite concert film ever. David Byrne’s attention to detail is so exact that even the mic stands were painted flat-black. Truly a magnificent film - would be a great reaction Patreon moment.
The Last Waltz comes in second. It was the last concert of The Band. There’s some fine performances like The Weight.
"Weird in such a cool way."
That should be the title of Talking Heads' box set.
Still remember David Byrne on Letterman describing the opening song where he is by himself. He had programmed a beat into a boom box and every time the drums hit, he does this violent full body twitch.
Letterman looks at him and says "You may need a complete check up."
"And She Was" is my favorite Talking Head's song.
yeah
Yep
A true story about dropping acid next to a Yoo-hoo factory.
I believe that was a Car's song
More Talking Heads: “Girlfriend is Better”. More music that was way ahead of its time: “Love is the Drug” by Roxy Music.
@Allison Reed. YES! Love is a Drug by Roxy Music!
@@catbutte4770 Bryan Ferry solo, too!
Thumbs up for Roxy Music.
Yes - Roxy Music!
It was such a chaotic time, the tail end of the 70's erupting in messy spatters into the 80's. It was a constant state of catch-up, your hair was wrong, your clothes were ill-fitting and out of place and music was changing by the hour. What was cool yesterday was hopelessly passe the next. All of a sudden, people started popping up with boatloads of money, all shiny and glittering and dripping with gold. It was a drug fueled, manic frenzy and you could try to keep up or be lost by the wayside. This song perfectly encapsulates that time.
It sure was I grew up in Hudson County NJ about 5 miles from Manhattan and I saw some great musical acts in small venues.
Finally. This is what we've been telling you guys. You gotta *experience* Talking Heads not just listen. They are performance art, rock, punk, funk, dance, all rolled up into one. And yes the energy is maintained pretty much the entire movie. The band is unbelievable, and the brilliant eccentricities of David Byrne is mesmerizing throughout. Total command of the stage. Definitely do it on Patreon. Give me a reason to come back (even though I have the movie). Would love to see your reaction.
There's music that you are ready to hear....and then there's the Talking Heads. Byrne is a genius! He will always surprise!
"This ain't no party, this ain't no Disco, this ain't no fooling around". No truer words have been sung....ha ha. "Burning Down The House" is my favorite from them.
Think you meant to say sung…..
@@waynecox3958 thanks
All Talking Heads performances are entertaining like that. Burning Down the House is my favorite, but Once in a Lifetime or Psycho Killer are great tracks.. and yes you always need to read their lyrics. Great songs.
I always liked "and she was" but I think that was written after this concert.
The Talking Heads are the "Quintessential 80s Alt Band That Started in the 70s".
They truly defined (and kinda led) that cutting edge, alt-rock aesthetic of the heady 1980s.
Was a BIG THRILL seeing them 1st time on SNL. "Take Me To The River" Al Green
"Stop Making Sense" absolutely the best concert film of all time.
I was going to say this, it absolutely is!
"Stop Making Sense" is definitely in the top five, maybe even top three best movies of a single band performance live. However it's Martin Scorsese's "The Last Waltz" that is the film that set the bar really high. Very different musically and atmospherically then this, but came first and is equally remarkable. The Simon & Garfunkel Live At Central Park is far less cinematic than these two, but I know many friends that would vote for it as it too is another great show registered in film, that marked a moment in time for many people.
@@marcribe6483 Yes, there's an element of taste here. I've seen The Last Waltz and I would never argue with someone putting that as the best. Stop Making Sense was so riveting. It was like an unforgettalbe experience. To me it will likely always be the best.
@@RonD108 Yes, we are talking about something subjective like "top favorites". Just would like to add that I did see both movies in the cinema at the time of release thus taking part of all the atmosphere and relevance of its time. I imagine that this factor might help weigh in favor moreso than taste itself. I mean, I have more Talking Heads records than The Band records. To my mind its not about how much I'm loving the band. It's about the impact made at the time and on me in particular. Still very subjective and there is always some level of taste involved, be it musical, cinematic, or what-have-you. But like I said in the beginning, Top 5 if not Top 3; both of them. So we're not so far apart either. Stay safe, stay healthy, stay well.
You have to watch Stop Making Sense even if you don't review it, what a great show! Seeing David Byrne in the Big Suit is priceless. And Tom Tom Club, two for one!
I freaking love Tina Weymouth’s bass style.
The original nerdy hipsters I was at one of these shows at the Pantages Theater in Hollywood, December 1983. It was one of the best concerts I've ever been to. The seats were empty, because everyone was up on their feet dancing.
I was just in Hollywood last week! Got family in Orange County and the San Diego metro. We had an auction to attend in Hollywood so stayed there for a few nights. Got to see a concert at the Troubadour! I was so excited. Historic night club.
@@burmajones803 That’s really great Eric. Yessir. The Troubadour was where the Laurel Canyon folk pop scene was buzzing back in the sixties. A lot of artists played there. I saw a few shows there in the eighties, but I don’t remember who I saw. My excuse is I saw so many concerts in Hollywood, I forget which venues I saw which artists at. Example, I always mix the Whiskey-a-Go-Go up with the Roxy, which are on the same block on Sunset Strip, and a tad bit similar interiors. Fun times!
Totally jelly of both of you to have been able to see shows in frickin' LA
The song, while lyrically talking about "life during wartime" is metaphorically about life on the road as a touring band, doing major shows, changing hairstyles to fit trends, being "large then life" and not really being yourself but the "star". Sleep during the days on the tour buses, work nights doing the shows. They aren't a "small" band anymore doing clubs (CBGB's) in their home town, but doing big shows all across the USA. Stay away from windows to avoid photographers, so busy they don't have time to do what they love (listen to music, write music, etc...). Lots more metaphors in the lyrics comparing being in a touring band to being on the run during a war.
One of the best concert films of all time. I saw them on this tour - I still can't believe what I saw, and the sounds was perfect.
If you wait a couple of months to watch the greatest concert video ever filmed you will ask yourself, "why the hell did we wait so long?" The concept is like nothing you've ever seen before and each song shows the genius that is David Byrne. Visually, aurally and conceptually, this concert stands at the very peak of the mountain of live performances.
Completely agree…. From start to finish this film is incredible
No explosions no elaborate props just a band firing on all cylinders. The whole concert is a treat. I was lucky enough to see this live.
How cool! Where was this filmed?
@@peterz4427 this was filmed in Hollywood. I saw the show in Chicago. Poplar Creek in Hoffman Estates a Chicago suburb. 1983, I turned 21! LOL
Youngster...lol I was...thirty something... when this came out. Almost saw The Heads in Boulder but ended up at a Frank Zappa show instead.
The song is about someone who is a spy during war time, when shit is constantly getting real..
This song is about touring while being famous.
@@Ivehadenuff Really? You think? I dunno man, the first verse is about selling weapons on the down low and hearing violence going on nearby. Doesn't sound like "band tour" reality, to me..
I always read the main character as someone in the resistance/underground
@@brianegendorf2023 listen again “This ain’t the Mudd Club, or CBGB’s (two dive bars inNYC that many famous bands played at the start of their career), I ain’t got time for that now”. I used to go to CBGB’s. It was gross and the band room was worse.
@@Ivehadenuff Yeah, but when you frame it with the rest of the lyrics and how many times he's changed his appearance and gun fire and not being smart to be near windows.. that one line is just mean to indicate that what he's doing is serious business and not having fun..which going to a concert would be.
Lyrically, many of Talking Heads songs are stream-of-consciousness....Life During Wartime being a possible exception....but everything is compelling. You won't be disappointed by the rest of Stop Making Sense!
Yes, the lyrics are abstract and conceptual, the boys are trying a little too hard to make "sense" of them.
I remember an interview where Byrne said they wrote the music then used words that fit the groove.
I was a college student in the early 80's. We all feared that the world would be destroyed in a nuclear holocaust. A lot of punk/new age music reflected that. At the same time, we were all about dancing and partying as an escape. So it wasn't unusual for songs with doomsday lyrics to have a great dance beat. I saw the Stop Making Sense concert movie in the theater. All my friends were blown away, and we played the album nonstop.
I had it on cassette. Wore the tape out.
This is the greatest American rock band of all time in my opinion. Not my favorite, but I think they were the best. They were ahead of their time and will still sound contemporary 50 years from now.
Trying to figure how you think they were the greatest, but not your favourite?
@@HamiltonRb other bands might connect with me more, and thus are my favorites, but I don't necessarily consider them to be the best from a critical standpoint. The Replacements and the Clash are my two favorite bands, and I think they both are quite good, but I don't think either of them are the greatest band of all time. It isn't really a difficult concept to grasp, is it?
@@burmajones803 I wouldn’t put any of those three bands in my top ten, but everyone has their own taste in music I suppose, and possibly coming from a different era factors in too
Found this concert about a year ago and find myself revisiting every month or so. Simply brilliant! Don't get caught up watching David too much but listen to the great music the band is putting out. Thanks for posting! I love it!
Talking Heads in Rome, 1980 is another pro-shot concert film. Adrien Belew in the band at that time.
My favorite concert from them
so glad you'll be checkin out the movie...David is a genius in his own quirky way...he once wired an abandoned warehouse and tied it all into a keyboard so you could literally play the building like an instrument...a performance artist/master musician....spot on gents....peace
Rolling Stone has called this the best concert movie ever filmed.
Last Waltz is better
Lol Andy this is what we did in the 80's. We danced, jumped, ran and flew! It was awesome.
You must do "Take me to the River" from the same concert. Incredible. The back-up singers come forward, unreal.
Real like that song
'Weird in such a cool way'. Now that sums up Talking Heads perfectly. The whole movie is well worth watching. You'll love the big suit.
That entire concert/movie is incredible
Your 2nd comment: "Where do you go from there ... where do you start before there?" pretty much sums up Stop Making Sense. I'm a theatre director and watching this movie early in my career taught me so much. This song appears about 1/2 way through - and without giving it all away, your question is basically the premise of the movie. You'll see how they start, and how it builds. The takeaway is an invaluable lesson in artistic composition, regardless of medium. Absolutely brilliant movie/performance.
This entire concert is nothing short of amazing. It's a roller coaster ride that you'll want to take over and over and over again.
Talking Heads were artists first, musicians second… and that’s not taking ANYTHING away from the music. What a fresh, quirky, important band. Groundbreaking.
I saw this movie in the theater the weekend it came out. Full surround stereo turnt all the way up. The infectious on screen energy totally transferred to the in-theater audience. One big party! Everyone came out grinning bopping and feeling like we had been to a live concert.
David Byrne - so often weird, always cool. My daughter, who is 37 now, saw Talking Heads in concert maybe 10 years ago in New York and she said it was the best show she had ever seen, and she's been to a LOT of shows.
Had the pleasure of actually being there during this filming. Got my boyfriend tix for his birthday. (A happy accident that his gift is now memorialized on film. 😊🎂)
That's very cool! Congrats on the very happy accident.
Arguably the best live concert video. I saw this when it came out and the entire theater was dancing almost through the entire movie. Nothing but joy and smiles.
I was there! They were my favorite band in the late '70s-early '80s. The expansion of the band from a four-piece to about a 10-piece came as a shock to everybody in the audience. I had seen them numerous times before that. David Byrne was very entertaining. Best song: The Great Curve.
I got to see David Byrne solo in concert once in a small club in Dallas, and I got to stand right up front and center about 20 feet in front of him and on the same level as the stage. It was like he was doing the concert for me. Incredible.
Turn on CC/subtitles (if available) to see the lyrics while the movie plays. First 3 songs of Remain in Light will rock your world.
The keyboard player from Talking Heads and the drummer from The Cars got their start in a band called Modern Lovers, you should definitely check them out at some point "Pablo Picasso", "Road Runner" or "Astral Plane" would be good starting points.
I love Bowie's take on "Pablo PIcasso".
I agree on all of this.
Stop making sense is one of the best concert movie's ever
Talking heads was the thinking mans dance band. This track was more or less in the middle of the set.
🤯 I'll never forget seeing them in the early 70's at CBGBs singing "This ain't no Mudd Club or CBGBs", 😂 we all shouted back "YES IT IS" which made David smile! 😏 #TrueFact IZIMBRA was my 1st Talking Heads 45', cause it was on CBGBs jukebox! 🤦🏿♀️ I'm old 🤷🏿♀️ do they still have jukeboxes in bars? 🤦🏿♀️ Im real old... 🐰
Have seen David Byrne 3 times, in late 90s, then about 6 years later, and lastly about 2018. All 3 are among the best concerts I've seen. First time I saw him the percussion section was like 6 people and totally blew me away with the latin-inspired stuff they were doing. Last time there was no kit, the drums were done like a marching band drumline. Weird in a cool way is right!
Oh wow. I should have spent more money on concerts. Big regret.
The needle is pinned on the genius meter from start to finish.
I like how, at 6:12, the guitarist aims his guitar in a weapon-like manner at the running singer, akin to a soldier shooting down an escapee or enemy.
Glad you guys got to this. This was one of my favorite songs as a teenager The energy level of the concert is amazing.
As for the lyrics. They are from the perspective of urban terrorists David Byrne will often give unusual perspective in his lyrics much Randy Newman or Warren Zevon.
Also the drummer and the bass player are married. They had a side project called the TomTom Club. A couple of those songs show up in this concert.
As for reading lyrics ahead of time it might not be a bad idea. If you can do a little research on the songs without hearing them. But most of all just enjoy the party.
One of my favorite Talking Head lines, "I've changed my hairstyle so many times now, I don't know what I look like".
Tina is queen of the bass. That is all.
Without a doubt! Love Tom Tom Club, too!
Got to see "Talking Heads" in mid '79 on Oahu in a dive of a nightclub called Little Orphan Annie's. They opened with "Psycho Killer"; it was great!
Wow. Wow
Thanks for giving Talking Heads another chance. Loved watching this. The movie Stop Making Sense, where this clip is from, has been a midnight movie classic in theaters across the country since the movie came out in the mid-80s. In lots of places the film ends up becoming a dance party, which is why it's still shown in theaters today. Check it out at a theater if you ever get a chance.
I saw them in NYC when they had just started as a trio, David on acoustic guitar . I visited their loft. It as on Christie Street. It was a HUGE empty concrete room. Two sheets hanging from the ceiling made their bedrooms . I even told David that I wanted to join Talking Heads. He and I jammed in his tiny railroad apartment shortly later, and I was so nervous that I totally blew it, coulda been Jerry Harrison. It still haunts me.
You have to do the whole thing on Patreon. You'll see they have lots more. It's completely choreographed - Chris Franz had to drum based on a click track because the final film is a composite of several performances.
Interesting! Thanks
You'll notice in the film that Chris holds a speaker to his ear just before starting songs. That gives him the tempo.
Stop Making Sense is one of the best concert films ever
Echooo, echoooo. I've never seen this video so this is cool. 😺
I saw the heads when they toured building this show up. David climbed up on top of a stack of speakers at one point, realized they were not strapped down (he was probably 15 feet up in the air), he smiled and started dancing from the waist up for a couple of seconds, then carefully climbed down. Without a doubt, best concert I've ever seen.
Yeah, you MUST do the full video on Patreon. You won't regret it.
You absolutely must review the entire film. This song closed the first set. Everything that came before built to this moment. In the second set they start over, and then build to an even higher, more creative and more manic conclusion. This is the ultimate concert movie. I was privileged to see them on this tour. The film captures the live experience precisely.
"Social commentary Zumba". Best description ever.
Love this performance. Glad you got to see it Tina the bass player wrote all their songs.
I love at the end how he says "any questions?" and then the lights go out. Your question ain't getting answered, it's wartime.
Where did you get the idea that Tina wrote all their songs? David was the principal songwriter who wrote or in select instances, co-wrote all of them.
Talking heads have one of my favourite rhythm sections, the combination of the bass and drums is just infectious.
One of the best concert performances ever. The whole show is worth a watch.
This is "core" Talking Heads, not the later hits that got played on MTV. Concentrate on the first four albums: '77, More Songs..., Fear of Music, and Remain the in Light. All classic weirdness
Especially Fear Of Music and Remain In Light. Steeped in that Heads/Eno weirdness, and almost all genius.
Best diet plan is to be a part of Talking heads show! Dam the energy to do all that and perform!
Yes! I was surprised and bummed by your reaction to Burning Down The House -- my favorite TH song -- but I'm happy you gave them a second chance and "got it." I have this album, it's quite good.
From an interview - keep in mind the song was released in '79: 'Byrne’s vision of the future, as expressed to NME at the time of the record’s release, was striking in its accuracy: “There will be chronic food shortages and gas shortages and people will live in hovels. Paradoxically, they’ll be surrounded by computers the size of wrist watches. Calculators will be cheap. It’ll be as easy to hookup your computer with a central television bank as it is to get the week’s groceries.”'
I remember when Take me to the River came out on late night radio. It totally floored me. Been a fan since 78 baby.
"Weird in such a cool way" is the perfect description of Talking Heads. To hear them at their peak, check out their two best albums: Fear of Music and Remain in Light. "Life During Wartime" comes from Fear of Music; "Paper", "Memories Can't Wait", "Air" and "Heaven" are other standouts. Remain in Light is much funkier, with one great song after another, including megahit "Once in a Lifetime", as well as featuring the electrifying guitar work of Adrian Belew (who can make his stratocaster sound like any animal in the zoo).
77 and more songs about buildings and food were good too. artists only is one of my favorite songs.
Definitely the movie is the way to go with Talking Heads. When we had a film festival here, pre Covid, Stop Making Sense was played on the giant outdoor screen to open the festival each year. People came to see it and dance along. Often the same people every year.
Killer song. Talking Heads were truly avant-garde.
“Stop Making Sense” is (only saw it once) permanently stored in my memory… you’ll never see anything like this again.
“Burning Down the House” is incredible, and then, it just gets better.
I must find the time to watch it again… ☮️
One of the best live bands in the 80's. Saw them twice back then.
When this movie came out, it was widely regarded as THE GREATEST CONCERT FILM OF ALL-TIME!
Decades later it MUST STILL be in the TOP 5 of anyone who has ever experienced it in it's entirety. The staging of it itself is part of the choreography. Starts with just Byrne, an acoustic guitar and a small ghetto blaster on the floor. One instrument Is brought out over time to slowly add performers to the stage, eventually the Drum riser is rolled out, all executed brilliantly!THIS is the1st Talking Heads Heads Song I ever heard in way back in 1979, from the Album "FEAR OF MUSIC". David Byrne is a Bona Fide Genius, as you will soon discover by taking a deep dive into one of the foundational Acts that built NYC's CBGB'S! OMFUG!
The best concert film of all time. Definitely check out the whole film. It starts with just one man, David Byrne, alone on the stage. and throughout the show the band grows around him, one instrument at a time, with more and more stage elements, lights, video, intensity, etc. being added continuously throughout the 90 minutes. And this song here is only about halfway through the show. As you said, It's all very organic as the "choreography" started out as improvisation which stuck as they did the show over-and-over during their tour. The storytelling comes more from the construction of the concert as a whole. And it is increadibly energetic and fun to watch the whole way through. Definatly a great concert to check out all in one go. I think I suggested it on Patreon a few months back.
Regarding the lyrics, I think most of the lyrics are pretty easy to understand... although maybe going through them after watching the film? But chopping up the concert would really impair the experience of the show I think.
This concert is the best example of what can happen when you put four art students together and form a band. The full concert has a creative concept, the music is super energetic and genuine, and the visual aspects are amazing -- I just can't rave about it enough.
What's also amazing is that David Byrne is still performing at this level, nearly four decades later: American Utopia on Broadway. I wasn't alive during the Stop Making Sense tour (soo thankful they filmed it), but I did see American Utopia and it is most definitely on par. Seeing David Byrne live should be on everyone's bucket list!