Adrian Belew’s 1990 album Young Lions blends his signature experimental guitar work with pop-friendly rock songwriting. Though it features David Bowie on two excellent tracks, “Pretty Pink Rose” and closer "Gunman," it does not take away from Belew's opportunities behind the mic, finding a balance between the croon of Roy Orbison and quirk of David Byrne. He balances quirky, textured arrangements with strong melodies, making the album both adventurous and approachable. Lyrically, it touches on themes of modern anxieties and cultural shifts, filtered through Belew’s surreal perspective on UFOs,  government helicopters, and more, without being preachy or on the nose.

Songs In This Episode

Intro - Young Lions

22:17 - Pretty Pink Rose

29:30 - Looking For A UFO

38:44 - Heartbeat

Outro - Gunman

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