Talking Heads' second studio album More Songs About Buildings and Food was released in 1978. After gaining much attention for their critically acclaimed debut, their second album was produced by Brian Eno, who would produce their next two albums as well. Unlike their debut, which was mostly unsuccessful commercially, More Songs peaked at number 29 on the Billboard charts, thanks to the success of the band's cover of Al Green's "Take Me to the River."
Because their debut showcased a weirdness that need to be refined not scaled back, I'm upset that the fuller sound and more traditional melodies divert so much attention away from David Bryne. Before I hoped that lyrics so upfront would become more colorful or thematic or funny; on this album, I barely notice their content (which might be for the best because, as the album title suggests, Byrne's favorite subjects haven't seen a shift). Nevertheless, the band's collaboration with the famed producer has resulted in a much more satisfying album altogether. From the synthesizers provided by Eno to the country influence on the final track to a surprisingly great soul cover, More Songs harbors several great tracks that see them expanding their parameters and succeeding with ease. A-
