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I’ve always been captivated by the raw energy and undeniable charisma of The Pretenders. Their music, a blend of punk’s rebellious spirit and new wave’s melodic sensibility, has left an indelible mark on rock history. In this article, I’m diving into their discography to rank The Pretenders’ albums from the must-listens to the deep cuts.
As a lifelong fan, I know that each album packs a punch with its own unique flavor. Whether you’re new to the band or a seasoned listener, you’ll discover something special about each record. So, let’s take a musical journey together and see where each album stands in the grand pantheon of The Pretenders’ legacy.
The Pretenders’ Debut: “The Pretenders” (1980)
When The Pretenders released their self-titled debut album in 1980, they essentially captured lightning in a bottle. The blend of punk rock energy, new wave hooks, and Chrissie Hynde’s unmistakable voice created a sound that was fresh yet timeless. “The Pretenders” immediately etched the band’s name into rock history with its raw edge and melodic prowess.
Leading the charge was the unmistakable single, “Brass in Pocket,” showcasing the group’s ability to deliver hits that were both catchy and defiantly powerful. The album isn’t just a one-hit wonder; tracks like “Kid” and “Tattooed Love Boys” have remained fan favorites, standing the test of time and influencing countless bands since.
Digging into “The Pretenders,” I’m reminded of the kind of influence they’ve had on music over the years. Fans of bands like Blondie, The Clash, and Talking Heads will find the album’s eclectic mix of genres and styles familiar, yet fresh. The Pretenders’ ability to oscillate between tender ballads and hard-driving rock tunes is a testament to their versatility and musical range.
The debut album’s success was no fluke; it was a beacon for the rock and roll spirit of the time. It’s an essential listen for anyone interested in the evolution of rock music in the late 20th century. The album not only kick-started the band’s career but also redefined what a rock band could be, with Hynde’s pioneering attitude as a frontwoman and the group’s evident musical chemistry.
As I delve into the gritty riffs and poetic lyricism, it’s evident why this album deserves its heralded status—it’s a brilliant snapshot of an era, infused with the spirit of reinvention that characterised the cusp of the 80s. Each song contributes to a debut that has both captivated and inspired listeners for decades, serving as a blueprint for many rock acts that followed.
Breaking Barriers: “Pretenders II” (1981)
After the whirlwind success of their debut album, The Pretenders faced the daunting task of following up with something equally groundbreaking. In 1981, they answered the call with “Pretenders II”. This sophomore album mirrored the band’s initial rock and roll recipe but delved deeper into the complexities of their musical prowess.
“Pretenders II” maintained the raw energy that fans adored but was layered with a newfound depth that spoke to the band’s evolution. Tracks like “Message of Love” and “Talk of the Town” resonated with audiences, showcasing The Pretenders’ ability to blend infectious melodies with reflective lyrics. The album also gave a nod to the band’s rockabilly influences, which enabled them to stand out among new wave contemporaries.
I must point out that despite the album’s lack of a mega-hit akin to “Brass in Pocket,” it still captured significant attention. It carved out its niche, cementing The Pretenders’ place in rock history. The group’s willingness to push the boundaries of genre, while staying true to their core sound, drew parallels to artists like Blondie, The Clash, and Elvis Costello, who were also known for their genre-blending tendencies.
The Pretenders’ skillful navigation through the sophomore slump with “Pretenders II” further demonstrated their knack for staying relevant amid the shifting tides of music trends. Driven by Chrissie Hynde’s distinctive vocals and the band’s unfaltering rock spirit, the album ensured that they were not to be dismissed as a one-hit wonder.
“Pretenders II” played a crucial role in solidifying the band’s sound and philosophy. By not leaning on the laurels of their debut, they showcased a richness and versatility in their music that many bands strive for, but few achieve. This album didn’t just mimic the past – it echoed The Pretenders’ commitment to artistry, influence, and the unpredictability that is the essence of rock and roll.
A Change in Direction: “Learning to Crawl” (1984)
By the time “Learning to Crawl” hit the shelves, The Pretenders had undergone a significant transformation. I’ll dive into how the 1984 masterpiece not only signaled a change in the band’s dynamic but also underscored their resilience in the face of adversity.
The third studio album from The Pretenders marked a period of upheaval: the group was reeling from the loss of two key members. Guitarist James Honeyman-Scott and bassist Pete Farndon had tragically passed away. This left lead singer Chrissie Hynde and drummer Martin Chambers to pick up the pieces. Determined to keep The Pretenders’ spirit alive, Hynde and Chambers recruited guitarist Robbie McIntosh and bassist Malcolm Foster.
“Learning to Crawl” revealed The Pretenders’ ability to mix vulnerability with the grit that fans had come to love. The tracks ranged from the heart-wrenching ballad “2000 Miles” to the defiant “Middle of the Road,” showcasing a band that, despite its new lineup, had lost none of its edge.
Key Tracks and Their Impact
- “Back on the Chain Gang”: This emotionally charged comeback was a poignant tribute to fallen band members. The song’s mainstream success evidenced The Pretenders’ enduring appeal.
- “My City Was Gone”: Featuring Hynde’s introspective lyrics, fused with a heavier rock sound, it became an anthem resonating with many fans from industrial hometowns.
This album also embodied a sonic evolution. The Pretenders drew comparisons to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, The Kinks, and The Rolling Stones—bands known for their prowess in combining rock fundamentals with expansive musicality. With “Learning to Crawl,” The Pretenders demonstrated an impressive breadth of style while maintaining their signature’s unfiltered emotion.
The critical reception of “Learning to Crawl” solidified The Pretenders’ return to the forefront of rock music. Facing their new reality head-on, they emerged with an album that struck a chord with a broad audience, capturing the zeitgeist of the mid-80s. For new and old fans alike, “Learning to Crawl” was proof of The Pretenders’ ability to adapt and thrive amidst the challenges they faced, reaffirming their position as rock and roll luminaries.
Exploring New Sounds: “Get Close” (1986)
Delving further into The Pretenders’ rich discography, “Get Close”, released in 1986, represents yet another creative pivot for the band. This album signified an even stronger exploration of new sounds and genres, further highlighting Chrissie Hynde’s versatility as a frontwoman and songwriter. With “Get Close”, listeners were treated to a fusion of rock, soul, and reggae, expanding the band’s footprint beyond their initial punk rock roots.
“Get Close” saw major lineup changes once again, which is reflected in the new musical directions the band took. Moving away from the punk-influenced edge of their earlier work, the album features a more polished production and experimentation with funk and dance elements. Songs like “Don’t Get Me Wrong” and “My Baby” underscore this shift, with both tracks achieving significant chart success and helping to cement the album’s place in The Pretenders’ legacy.
In addition to these hits, “Get Close” contains deep cuts that showcase The Pretenders’ ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly. The influence of contemporary artists such as Annie Lennox, The Bangles, and even Paul Young, known for their soulful lyrics and melodies, is evident throughout the album.
| “Get Close” Standout Tracks | Chart Success |
|---|---|
| Don’t Get Me Wrong | Top 10 in US and UK |
| My Baby | Top 20 in US |
The experimental nature of “Get Close” broadened the team’s sonic horizons and allowed them to reach new audiences. While some fans missed the rawer edge of “Learning to Crawl”, many praised the vibrant and diverse soundscape that “Get Close” brought to the table. By adapting and evolving with the times, The Pretenders continued to show that they were not a band constrained by the expectations of the genre or their past, but rather one that’s continually looking to push musical boundaries.
A Return to Form: “Last of the Independents” (1994)
Decades after their debut, The Pretenders’ release of “Last of the Independents” in 1994 marked a significant moment in their storied career. Often referred to as a return to form, this album recaptured the essence of their early days with infused modernity. After the experimentation of “Get Close,” this record seemed to ground the band back to their rock roots while maintaining their refreshing contemporary clarity.
“Last of the Independents” aligns with the band’s raw, yet sophisticated brand of rock that originally put them on the map. Chrissie Hynde’s songwriting was sharply focused, conjuring the kind of anthems that would resonate with fans old and new. Tracks like “Night in My Veins” and “I’ll Stand by You” stand as testaments to the album’s power, with the latter becoming an evergreen hit and a classic in its own right.
The album’s success wasn’t isolated; it mirrored the achievements of bands like R.E.M., Blondie, and The Smiths. Like these contemporaries, The Pretenders managed to keep their core sound intact while allowing the textures of alternative rock to seep into their tracks. This blend was crucial in seeking relevance in a music world that was rapidly rotating through trends.
| Track | Chart Position |
|---|---|
| Night in My Veins | 31 |
| I’ll Stand by You | 16 |
The influence of these similar artists can be subtly felt through the record, enhancing the richness of its sonic landscape. However, The Pretenders never lost their edge. “Last of the Independents” served to reassure fans that the beloved group they had rallied behind for over a decade was still driven by the same fiery spirit.
In “Last of the Independents”, the duality of soft acoustics and driving guitar riffs encapsulated the band’s versatility. While capturing the zeitgeist of the time, The Pretenders didn’t just chase current trends—they carved a niche that was unmistakably theirs. This album was an integral piece of their discography and an important cultural artifact of the 90s’ rock scene.
Rediscovering the Edge: “Viva el Amor!” (1999)
Exploring The Pretenders’ catalog further, I can’t skip over “Viva el Amor!”, a poignant album that marked the end of a decade with a renewed assertiveness. Released in 1999, the album is an emblem of the gritty determination that had always encapsulated the band’s music. Chrissie Hynde‘s raw and emotive lyricism combined with Martin Chambers‘s resilient drumming reaffirms The Pretenders’ place in the rock pantheon.
Similar to esteemed contemporaries like U2, Tom Petty, and the Heartbreakers, and The Clash, The Pretenders reinvigorated their sound on this album with unapologetic energy. “Viva el Amor!” bellows with confidence, from the opening riffs of “Popstar” to the introspective acoustics of “One More Time”. It’s as if the band had rediscovered their initial edge and decided to meld it with the wisdom of their years in the industry.
The track “Human” stands out, showcasing the band’s prowess in filtering classic rock through a lens of fresh production values. Here, The Pretenders don’t shy away from a little modern shimmer, proving they can evolve while respecting their roots. This strategic alignment of past and present echoes the work of similar artists and ensures a continued relevance in the rapidly changing music landscape.
“Viva el Amor!” may not have dominated the charts like some of its predecessors, but it indubitably etched a mark on the fans and critics who admired The Pretenders for their uncompromising approach to music making. Without straying far from the rebellious spirit that fueled their debut, the album is a testament to their steadfast presence in the world of rock, never losing sight of the ethos that defined them.
Tracks like “Baby’s Breath” bring a tender touch to The Pretenders’ otherwise robust album narrative, suggesting that vulnerability and strength often go hand in hand. With “Viva el Amor!”, The Pretenders managed to remind everyone that even as the 21st century loomed, they were a band that refused to be left behind.
An Acoustic Approach: “Loose Screw” (2002)
When The Pretenders returned with “Loose Screw” in 2002, listeners encountered a band once again reinventing their sound. This time, the pivot was towards reggae influences and acoustic textures, embracing a softer and more reflective approach. The album, much like its predecessors, was a testament to the band’s range and the unyielding artistry of Chrissie Hynde.
I found the stand-out tracks on the album, such as “Complex Person” and “Nothing Breaks Like a Heart,” to capture this acoustic shift while still maintaining the unmistakable Pretenders flair. The integration of reggae rhythms not only broadened the band’s musical scope but also brought a fresh perspective to their evolving sound. However, unlike mainstream reggae hits, their approach was more nuanced, weaving the genre’s laid-back feel into their established rock essence.
“Loose Screw” often gets overshadowed by the band’s more heralded albums, but it shouldn’t be dismissed. Artists like UB40, The Police, and No Doubt have each integrated reggae influences into their music to varying degrees of success, but The Pretenders’ exploration felt organic and fit seamlessly with Hynde’s songwriting.
It’s worth noting that The Pretenders had always been more than just a rock band, and “Loose Screw” highlighted their adeptness at genre-blending. The album’s production values were crisp, and the acoustics lent a smooth, airy quality to Hynde’s vocals, which especially shone through tracks like “You Know Who Your Friends Are.”
Despite its departure from their earlier, more rock-focused work, “Loose Screw” displayed that The Pretenders could adapt and stay relevant in an ever-changing music landscape. Their ability to incorporate new styles while maintaining their core identity was nothing short of remarkable. Fans and new listeners alike could find something to appreciate, from the mellow grooves to the lyrical prowess that The Pretenders are known for.
Experiments and Collaborations: “Break Up the Concrete” (2008)
“Break Up the Concrete” surfaced as a reflection of The Pretenders’ persistent quest for evolution. Diving into a blend of rockabilly, country, and blues, the album stands out for its raw live sound and minimal production, stripping back to basics in stark contrast to their previous works. I’d say Chrissie Hynde’s bold vocals charge through the album with purpose, further solidifying her iconic status in rock.
When dissecting the album track by track, it’s evident that The Pretenders had not just revisited their punk roots but had also expanded their sonic palette. They dipped their toes into American roots music, which was a nod to the stylings of notable peers like Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, and Johnny Cash. The synergy between the band members feels genuine; perhaps it’s because Hynde assembled an eclectic mix of talents specifically for this project, including famed pedal steel guitarist Eric Heywood.
The titular track, “Break Up the Concrete,” radiates with a visceral drive that’s hard to ignore. It punches through with an infectious rhythm that makes it impossible not to tap along. Meanwhile, the inclusion of the ballad “Love’s a Mystery” showcases the band’s softer side without losing the gritty touch that defines them.
Their foray into an Americana-infused direction was a gamble that paid off, allowing The Pretenders to break into a new decade with their legacy intact. Even more intriguing about this era was their choice to collaborate with artists from genres one wouldn’t typically associate with the band’s sound. These strategic moves not only broadened their audience but also displayed the band’s unwillingness to be confined by genre limitations.
With “Break Up the Concrete,” The Pretenders rejected the notion of playing it safe, embracing the spirit of exploration that had always been at the heart of their music. Their ability to experiment while honoring their distinct identity showcases their undiminished flair for innovation and adaptation in the music scene.
A Vivid Array of Styles: “Alone” (2016)
The Pretenders’ journey through their musical landscape brought fans to a compelling milestone with the release of “Alone” in 2016. I’ve always admired how they’ve managed to reinvent themselves and “Alone” stands testament to their innovative spirit. As the tenth studio album, it merges rock with an underlying blues essence and even a hint of punk vigor.
“Alone” was produced by the eminent Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys which definitely contributed to its raw, minimalist vibe. The collaboration seemed like a natural convergence of talents, and the influence of Auerbach is unmistakable. Tracks like “Holy Commotion” and the titular “Alone” are imbued with a garage rock simplicity while still bearing that classic Pretenders edge.
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Producer | Dan Auerbach |
| Standout Tracks | “Holy Commotion”, “Alone” |
| Style Fusion | Rock, blues, punk |
| Release Year | 2016 |
Chrissie Hynde’s voice, as ever, was the focal point of “Alone” — powerful enough to evoke a spectrum of emotion yet nuanced enough to bring the more subtle musical ideas to life. She delves into introspective lyricism while still maintaining an air of the band’s trademark audacity.
In the context of their discography, “Alone” could be considered a cousin to albums by artists such as Patti Smith, Fleetwood Mac, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Each track in the album stood out as a testament to The Pretenders’ ability to stand alongside these legends yet carve out a unique niche. What’s clear is that The Pretenders refuse to rest on their laurels and with “Alone,” they showcased a range that is both comforting in its familiarity and exciting in its exploration.
The themes in “Alone” are a reflection of Hynde’s own evolution and the changing times. The dexterity of the band to adapt and articulate the ethos of various genres while maintaining their core identity is second to none. I find that their penchant for pushing the boundaries of rock music without alienating their original fan base is a delicate dance they perform remarkably well.
Conclusion
I’ve taken you through a journey of The Pretenders’ albums, and it’s clear they’ve carved an indelible mark on the rock landscape. Their latest offering, “Alone,” is a testament to their enduring appeal and musical evolution. It’s a bold statement in their storied career, blending genres and showcasing their signature style. The Pretenders have proven they’re not just a band from the past—they’re a dynamic force continually shaping the future of rock. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, their discography is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.