"Break Up the Concrete" is the ninth studio album by rock group The Pretenders, released in 2008. This album marks their first studio release since Loose Screw in 2002. It features a blend of rock and country influences, aligning with the album's overall sound. The title track, "Break Up the Concrete," gained visibility by being used in the opening scene of an episode of House M.D. ("5 to 9," season 6, episode 14).
Several exclusive editions of the album were released, each featuring a countrified version of a vintage Pretenders song. The first edition included a unique touch: a small sheet of "handmade seed paper" that could be planted to grow flowers, adding an eco-friendly element to the release. The cover art of Break Up the Concrete humorously parodies the sleeve of Joe Jackson's 1979 debut, Look Sharp!.
This album is significant as it is the first Pretenders release since 1994's Last of the Independents not to feature drummer Martin Chambers. Lead singer Chrissie Hynde sought a different drumming style that she felt Chambers could not provide to her satisfaction. Session drummer Jim Keltner was brought in for the studio recordings, although Chambers later returned for the album's supporting tour.
There were conflicting narratives regarding Chambers' absence. Hynde stated that Keltner was recommended by Chambers and that he was aware of the situation, while Chambers claimed he was blindsided by the decision and was unaware that an album was even in progress until it was well underway. In a later interview, Chambers expressed his blessing for Hynde to proceed without him, acknowledging their differing approaches to songwriting and production.
Break Up the Concrete received positive reviews for its refreshing sound and solid songwriting, reaffirming The Pretenders' enduring legacy in the rock genre. The combination of catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics helped the album resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners.
