Chrissie Hynde’s Duets Special: A Nostalgic Musical Journey
Coming off the best Pretenders album since the ’80s, Chrissie Hynde resumes her solo career with a new release, Duets Special. This album marks her fourth (or fifth, depending on how one counts 2010’s Fidelity!, credited to JP, Chrissie and the Fairground Boys) solo LP, showcasing her continued evolution as an artist.
A Familiar Yet Fresh Approach
True to her solo form, Duets Special is credited to Chrissie Hynde & Pals and features a collection of cover songs. This is a familiar territory for Hynde, who previously released the jazz standards album Valve Bone Woe in 2019 and the Bob Dylan tribute Standing in the Doorway: Chrissie Hynde Sings Bob Dylan in 2021. What sets this album apart is its unique pairing of Hynde with various singer friends across its 13 tracks.
A Blend of Styles: Soft and Spunky
Following the vibrant energy of her 2023 album Relentless, which reignited the Pretenders’ spunky side while embracing softer, sentimental themes, Duets Special leans more towards the emotional. Hynde’s ability to navigate between nostalgic love songs and her tough rock ‘n’ roll persona offers a revealing contrast. This emotional engagement underscores her artistic depth, challenging the stereotype of the hardened frontwoman who emerged from punk’s golden era.
Track Selection: A Double-Edged Sword
While the album features a mix of beloved classics, including a cover of “I Got You Babe” (originally a No. 1 hit in the U.K. with UB40), “Always on My Mind” with Rufus Wainwright, and the Beatles’ “It’s Only Love” with Julian Lennon, this familiarity may render the album a minor outing in Hynde’s extensive career. Many of these songs have been perfected by previous artists, leaving little room for innovation.
Unexpected Highlights
Despite the predictable track selection, Duets Special shines in its unexpected collaborations. A gender-bending rendition of “Me & Mrs. Jones” with k.d. lang, a heartfelt cover of Morrissey’s “First of the Gang to Die” featuring Cat Power, and Cass McCombs’ moody “County Line,” paired with Alan Sparhawk from Low, offer refreshing twists. Additionally, the cover of “Try to Sleep” with Debbie Harry injects life into the album, elevating it beyond mere B-sides or guest appearances.
Conclusion
As a transitional piece between her work with the Pretenders, Duets Special serves to warm up Chrissie Hynde’s soulful, interpretive side. While it may not redefine her legacy, it provides a pleasant detour, showcasing her enduring talent and ability to connect emotionally through music.
FAQs
What is the concept behind Duets Special?
Duets Special features a collection of cover songs sung by Chrissie Hynde in collaboration with various artists, emphasizing her interpretive skills and emotional depth.
How does Duets Special compare to Hynde’s previous solo albums?
This album continues Hynde’s tradition of covering classic songs, but it distinguishes itself by featuring a wide array of artist collaborations, offering fresh interpretations of well-known tracks.
What themes are explored in Duets Special?
The album explores themes of nostalgia, love, and emotional connection, showcasing both softer ballads and a few spunky tracks, reflecting Hynde’s versatile artistry.
Are there any standout tracks on the album?
Yes, tracks like the gender-bending “Me & Mrs. Jones” with k.d. lang and the cover of Morrissey’s “First of the Gang to Die” with Cat Power stand out as unique and engaging collaborations.
