Packed!

I don’t think I’ve ever sat with a full Pretenders album before — mostly just the greatest hits. Packed! feels like a competent collection of rock/pop songs, solidly constructed but not always gripping from start to finish.

Chrissie Hynde has a sneaky great singing voice when she lets it breathe and avoids leaning too hard into the vibrato. There’s an understated coolness to her delivery that works best when she keeps it relaxed and direct.

“Never Do That” and “Let’s Make a Pact” are both strong — tight, punchy, and hook-driven without trying too hard. “When Will I See You,” co-written with Johnny Marr, has a crisp melodic sensibility that stands out. There’s a Hendrix cover in the mix that’s interesting as a choice, though it didn’t move the needle much for me.

The real gem, though, is the live version of “Criminal” that closes the album. It’s tender and emotionally grounded, and Hynde’s subtle delivery gives it real weight. The way the song builds around the chorus feels sweeping without being overstated, and there’s an authenticity there that pulls you in quietly but firmly.

Overall, this feels like a capable, professional rock record. It didn’t overwhelm me, but there are enough strong moments to make it worthwhile — especially when the band leans into energy over polish.