Talk Talk & Mark Hollis

08/03/22 • 34 min

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Inspired by the early electronic style of Brian Eno with his work in the band Roxy Music and artists like David Bowie, Talk Talk was formed in the early eighties by Mark Hollis, Lee Harris, Paul Webb ands Simon Brenner. Initially part of the synth-pop boom in the early eighties and sharing producers with acts like Duran Duran, Talk Talk began to see their early singles charting across Europe. They expanded further into art rock territory on their most successful album, The Colour of Spring which garnered gold certifications and hit singles for the group. Contrary to their labels hopes after finding success, the band shied away from the spotlight ceasing any live shows and almost all promotional prospects. Instead they dove deep into the avant garde with Miles Davis and ambient music becoming common touchstones for the band. They proceeded to hired dozens of session players and got to work on some of the most ambitious experimental music any mainstream group had made to that point. Commonly touted as a major influence for musicians as wide-ranging as massive arena bands like Blur and Radiohead to modern acts like Foals and Arcade Fire. In this episode of Influenced we explore the wide ranging career of Mark Hollis and Talk Talk and discuss their wide ranging influence.
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