Description
Pretenders – Packed – Compact Disc
Released on May 22, 1990, Packed! is the fifth studio album by Pretenders, led by the band’s iconic frontwoman Chrissie Hynde. Unlike previous albums, Packed! is essentially a Chrissie Hynde solo project, as she is the only original member featured, with various session musicians filling in on instruments. The album moves away from the gritty punk-rock edge of the band’s early years, embracing a softer, pop-rock sound that was more in line with late-’80s and early-’90s adult contemporary trends.
While Packed! didn’t achieve the same level of success as the Pretenders’ earlier albums like Pretenders (1980) and Learning to Crawl (1984), it still featured strong songwriting, melodic hooks, and Chrissie Hynde’s signature emotional depth. The album had one moderate hit, “Never Do That”, but otherwise received mixed reviews and was seen as a transitional record for the band.
On Packed!, Hynde moves further into radio-friendly rock, with production that leans toward cleaner, polished sounds rather than the raw energy of early Pretenders records. The album blends elements of pop-rock, folk-rock, and soft rock, often focusing on melodic, mid-tempo tracks rather than hard-hitting rockers.
Although Martin Chambers (the band’s original drummer) was absent, guitarist Blair Cunningham and session musicians provided solid instrumental work. However, the lack of a cohesive band dynamic made Packed! feel more like a solo album under the Pretenders name rather than a full-band effort.
Track Highlights
“Never Do That” – The album’s lead single, a melodic, introspective track that reflects Hynde’s signature mix of longing and resilience. The song reached #4 on the Billboard Modern Rock chart.
“Sense of Purpose” – A mid-tempo pop-rock song with smooth guitar work and Hynde’s unmistakable bittersweet delivery.
“Downtown (Akron)” – A tribute to Hynde’s hometown of Akron, Ohio, featuring a mellow, nostalgic feel.
“When Will I See You” – A heartfelt ballad with country-tinged influences, showcasing Hynde’s softer, emotional side.
“How Do I Miss You?” – One of the stronger rock-leaning tracks, with jangly guitars and a slightly edgier tone.
“Millionaires” – A satirical look at wealth and materialism, delivered with Hynde’s signature wit and biting humor.
“No Guarantee” – A soulful and moody track, dealing with themes of uncertainty and personal reflection.
“Sense of Purpose” – A mid-tempo track that blends melancholy with optimism, a recurring theme in Hynde’s songwriting.
While the album contains a few solid moments, some critics felt that it lacked the fire and energy of classic Pretenders records. However, compared to earlier records, Packed! feels less raw and urgent, opting for a more introspective and melancholic approach.
Packed! received mixed reviews upon release. Critics praised Hynde’s voice and songwriting, but many felt that the album lacked the energy and edge that made the Pretenders great. Commercially, the album underperformed, failing to generate a major hit beyond “Never Do That.” Many longtime fans viewed Packed! as a low point in the Pretenders’ discography, especially compared to their early work. Over time, however, some listeners have reassessed the album, appreciating its introspective lyrics and mellow, heartfelt moments.
Despite its lack of immediate impact, Packed! set the stage for the Pretenders’ return to form with Last of the Independents (1994), which featured the massive hit “I’ll Stand by You.”
While Packed! may not be the Pretenders’ most essential album, it remains an interesting listen for fans of Chrissie Hynde’s songwriting and vocal style. It lacks the punk bite of their early work but offers moments of melodic beauty and lyrical depth. If you’re a Pretenders completist or someone who enjoys softer, introspective rock, this album is worth exploring.
WEA Records 1990
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Song List
Never Do That
Let’s Make A Pact
Millionaires
May This Be Love
No Guarantee
When Will I See You
Sense Of Purpose
Downtown (Akron)
How Do I Miss You
Hold A Candle To This
Criminal
