In Burning Down the House: Talking Heads and the New York Scene That Transformed Rock, author Jonathan Gould provides a well-researched history of the Talking Heads and the downtown New York art-rock scene that nurtured them. From their scrappy beginnings at CBGB in the mid-1970s through their evolution into one of the most adventurous bands of the era, Gould weaves together biography, cultural history, and musical analysis.
One of the book’s strengths is its sharp sense of time and place: the gritty streets of Lower Manhattan, the art school roots of the band, and the collision of punk, funk, and other influences. Gould paints a compelling backdrop for the band’s unconventional rise. Fans will appreciate the depth of detail, retelling how songs came about and the meaning of various lyrics. Gould artfully navigates the various phases of the band, such as the “Expanded Heads” that included a larger ensemble cast, as well as the band’s later phase that more resembled a pop rock band in the mid and late 80’s.
That said, the book is not without shortcomings. The fact that none of the core band members sat for interviews with the author leaves certain shadows and gaps. Gould often retells stories and patches together a narrative of the band’s unique interpersonal dynamic and its relationship with lead singer David Byrne. However, the book celebrates Talking Heads’ artistic ambition and how for a good decade they were on the forefront of progressive rock and new wave in the United States.
MY RATING: 4
