B-52's
Mesopotamia
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

1982 Mini EP Original. The B-52s’ “Mesopotamia” is a six-track EP released in 1982, marking a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution. Produced by David Byrne of Talking Heads, the project reflected a departure from the group’s earlier, raw surf-rock and new wave sound. During the recording sessions, creative tensions and production challenges arose, resulting in an EP instead of the originally intended full-length album. The title track and others featured more layered arrangements, polyrhythms, and funk influences, integrating synthesizers and world music elements that were less prominent in their previous work. The band’s quirky lyrical style remained, but the sonic landscape grew denser and more experimental under Byrne’s direction. Upon its release, “Mesopotamia” received mixed reviews from critics and confused some fans, but it has since been recognized as a bold and influential step in the B-52s’ discography. The record’s willingness to explore new textures and rhythms laid groundwork for the band’s later mainstream successes, particularly their 1989 album “Cosmic Thing.” Additionally, “Mesopotamia” captures the intersection of early 1980s art-pop experimentation, reflecting both Byrne’s and the B-52s’ mutual interest in blending genres. Today, it stands as a testament to the group’s adaptability and creative ambition during a period of transition.