As a life-long radio listener, so many of the Pretenders' classic tunes are now melded into my DNA. From “Brass in Pocket” to “Back on the Chain Gang” to “My Baby” and more, the band has churned out so many great songs on so many solid albums. Though Chrissie Hynde has pretty well carried the whole project on her back since the early '80s, she has never stopped the churning... and thankfully so... which is why 2020's Hate for Sale (and, honestly, 2023's Relentless, as well) is such a terrific testament to the woman who has powered one of the most iconic rock & roll bands of the past 50 years.
Halfway through the effort, a then-69-year-old Hynde croons, "Look at her now, she's centre stage. Too old to know better, too young for her age." With its gentle R&B sway, the song is “You Can't Hurt a Fool,” and the fool is... well, Hynde, herself. It's a little wink-and-nod of self-awareness.
Produced by Stephen Street, the album finds the Pretenders' touring band, including founding drummer Martin Chambers, in the studio doing what rock & roll bands do best... rock some and roll some. Hynde crafted the material with guitarist James Walbourne — who, it should be noted, was BORN in 1980, the same year as the band. The pair keeps it simple, but not simplified. While touches of reggae, New Wave, and soul all find their way into the mix, as AllMusic.com observes, “None of these sounds are precisely new, but they are executed with vigor and spirit by a band who seems to enjoy playing as a band again, which makes for a vivid contrast with Alone.”
Their 11th album marking their 40th anniversary, Hate for Sale found success among fans and critics, alike, climbing the U.K. charts to number 29. Maybe rock and roll ISN'T dead. Let's hope that's the case.
Hear the whole episode January 28 at 6 am, 12 pm, and 6 pm PT.
