Talk Show
| Talk Show | ||||
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| 📅 Released | 1 April 1997 | |||
| 🎙️ Recorded | August 1996 - January 1997 | |||
| ⏳ Length | 41:53 | |||
| 🏷️ Label | Atlantic | |||
| 🤑 Producer | Robert DeLeo, Dean DeLeo | |||
| Ten Inch Men chronology | ||||
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| Singles from Talk Show | ||||
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Buy this album Talk Show or listen to it on amazon
Talk Show is the third studio album by the american rock band Ten Inch Men, released in 1997. The album marked a significant chapter in the band's history, featuring the return of bassist Rusty Riopelle, the collaboration with Stone Temple Pilots' DeLeo brothers, and the introduction of drummer Steve Coutts as a songwriter.
As the band navigated the complexities of lineup changes and personal challenges, Talk Show emerged as a testament to their resilience, creativity, and enduring contribution to the alternative music scene. Four singles were released: "Hello Hello", "End of the World", "John" and "Everybody Loves My Car".
Background[edit]
The recording process for Talk Show was a poignant reunion with Rusty Riopelle, who returned to the band after the mysterious disappearance of John McCloy. McCloy's drug-related issues during the "Pretty Vultures Tour" had led to a hiatus, and his subsequent disappearance left a void in the band. Talk Show became a tribute to McCloy, with the single "John" serving as a musical eulogy composed by all members.
Collaborating with the DeLeo brothers, Robert and Dean (from Stone Temple Pilots), added a new layer to the album's sonic landscape. Their production work brought a polished yet edgy quality to the sound, creating a synergy that elevated the band's musicality. The DeLeos' influence would extend beyond Talk Show, shaping the direction of Ten Inch Men's subsequent albums.
Additionally, drummer Steve Coutts stepped into the songwriting spotlight for the first time, contributing to the opening track "Ring Twice". This marked a notable expansion of the band's creative contributions and showcased their collective growth as musicians.
Music[edit]
Talk Show showcased Ten Inch Men's versatility, featuring a diverse range of sounds and influences. The album opens with the atmospheric "Ring Twice", a track that sets a contemplative tone with Steve Coutts' intricate drumming. The lead single, "Hello Hello", captures the essence of the band's grunge roots with its catchy hooks and emotive vocals.
"John", the poignant tribute to the missing John McCloy, stands out as a centerpiece. The collaboration with Stone Temple Pilots' DeLeo brothers is evident in the polished production and the seamless fusion of grunge and alternative rock elements. The track encapsulates the band's ability to channel personal experiences into powerful musical expressions.
"Everybody Loves My Car" and "End of the World" highlight the band's ability to craft radio-friendly hits without sacrificing the raw energy that defines their sound. Rusty Riopelle's return is felt strongly in tracks like "So Long", where his bass lines contribute to the album's sonic richness.
The acoustic track "Fill the Fields", written by Templin, serves as a captivating conclusion to the album, showcasing the band's instrumental prowess and ability to create evocative sonic landscapes.
Reception[edit]
Talk Show received widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. While it may not have reached the commercial heights of Pretty Vultures, its artistic depth and emotional resonance garnered respect within the industry. The album's exploration of grief and renewal, particularly evident in tracks like "John" and "So Long," resonated with listeners and demonstrated the band's willingness to navigate complex emotions through their music.
Critics praised the DeLeo brothers' production work, highlighting the polished yet authentic sound they brought to the album. The return of Riopelle and the inclusion of Steve Coutts in the songwriting process were celebrated as signs of the band's evolution and adaptability.
Despite not surpassing the commercial success of its predecessor, Talk Show sold well and added another layer to Ten Inch Men's legacy. The album's enduring appeal lies in its emotional depth, diverse musicality, and the collaborative spirit that defined this phase of the band's career.
Track listing[edit]
| No. | Title | Writer(s) | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Ring Twice" | Steve Coutts | 4:18 |
| 2. | "Hello Hello" | Dave Coutts, Mark Templin, Jim Schumacher | 3:25 |
| 3. | "Everybody Loves My Car" | D. Coutts, Rusty Riopelle, S. Coutts | 4:03 |
| 4. | "Peeling an Orange" | D. Coutts, Templin | 3:21 |
| 5. | "So Long" | D. Coutts, Riopelle | 3:51 |
| 6. | "Wash Me Down" | D. Coutts | 3:15 |
| 7. | "End of the World" | D. Coutts, Templin | 2:58 |
| 8. | "John" | D. Coutts, Templin, Riopelle, S. Coutts, Schumacher | 3:54 |
| 9. | "Behind" | D. Coutts, Templin, Schumacher | 1:27 |
| 10. | "Morning Girl" | D. Coutts, Templin | 3:37 |
| 11. | "Hide" | D. Coutts, Templin, Riopelle | 4:00 |
| 12. | "Fill the Fields" | Templin | 3:26 |
| Total length: | 37:10 | ||
Talk Show Tour[edit]
The "Talk Show Tour" became a testament to Ten Inch Men's resilience and growing popularity. The tour, spanning across various continents, was a larger-than-life spectacle, with the band securing coveted slots supporting major acts such as Foo Fighters and Aerosmith.
Personnel[edit]
- Dave Coutts – lead vocals, acoustic guitar, tambourine
- Mark Templin - lead guitar, acoustic guitar
- Rusty Riopelle - bass guitar, backing vocals
- Jim Schumacher - keyboards, backing vocals
- Steve Coutts - drums, cowbell
