Stop Making Sense

Released

Stop Making Sense was a concert film like no other, one that documented a stage show designed specifically to be filmed. It found Talking Heads using different stage configurations, props, and costume changes (including the notorious Big Suit) to bring a new dimension to the career-spanning setlist, and the result was not just an enjoyable document of live performance but also a great movie. Even without the visuals, the soundtrack album is similarly outstanding. Byrne is in top form here, indulging his weirdness but always in a controlled way; highlights include a tender rendition of “This Must Be the Place (Naïve Melody)” and a stirring take on the band’s mid-career hit “Once in a Lifetime.” And when the band morphs briefly into the Chris Frantz/Tina Weymouth side project Tom Tom Club for “Genius of Love,” it acts as a lovely palate cleanser. This is actually one of Talking Heads’ best albums.

Rick Anderson