Music
17 Jun 03

Loose Screw

Chrissie Hynde’s voice is as strong and distinctive as ever, but I find the songs here bland and uninspired, musically unadventurous and run-of-the-mill.

There’s not much to say about this record apart from the obvious: that is, if you’re a long-term committed fan of this quarter-of-a-century-old rock ‘n’ roll band, then by all means rush out and buy their latest album to add to your collection.

However, if The Pretenders and their traditional rock style (which barely seems to have evolved since the 1980s) aren’t your cup of tea, then steer a wide berth around Loose Screw. Chrissie Hynde’s voice is as strong and distinctive as ever, but I find the songs here bland and uninspired, musically unadventurous and run-of-the-mill. As outstanding artists with staying power (eg Paul Weller) know, music gathers moss unless you roll with the times.

The Pretenders’ latest is mossy music, and while devout fans will no doubt disagree, to these ears – accustomed to the inventiveness of contemporary rock – Loose Screw sounds insipid and flat.

Maybe it’s time The Pretenders let their music be influenced by the new.