Reviews (page 5 of 8)
Hmmm. I really like Grass and Dear God. Some of the rest are slightly irritating. I find this with XTC, some good shit, some annoying shit.
I can absolutely understand why some people have a hard time enjoying XTC, most of their music is very self-indulgent art-pop, but I confess that's pretty much the main reason I love them. They grace this list twice (the other album, 99's Apple Venus Vol 1), and I'd argue that Kid Rock should be kicked to make room for at least one more album. Anyway, Skylarking is a delightfully fluid album with beautiful string arrangements, often bouncy melodies and cheeky lyrics. While the I find the second leg of the album to be a little lacking compared to the front half, there's still a lot to enjoy throughout the whole thing. If it wasn't for the monumental hit that is "Dear God", I would have maybe swapped this album out for Oranges & Lemons instead
Boring but not horrible.
It was fine. I’m sure I’ve heard XTC before and probably will again but won’t be seeking it out based on this album.
They’re an ok band. I skimmed all their early records; for me there’s too much keyboard and too many mid-tempo tunes. I don’t care for it, but I’m glad to have heard it.
Went into this only knowing Dear God, discovered an eclectic mix of tunes, ranging from cheery to existential. Captivating melodies and arrangements.
Really enjoy this when I remember to put it on. Some real highlights but some of the deep cuts are a little bit kinda wish-washy/fillerish. "Dear God" is a classic.
My knowledge of XTC stops at Senses working overtime. So I was interested when this album came up on the list. And you know what I quite enjoyed it. Wouldn’t say it was mind blowing but it was definitely steady with some great, good and a few bland tracks on there… now what album is Senses working overtime on cause that’s a banger….
It is funny that the previous album that I had to listen was also a british rock Pop album, and how I said that it was nice to have an album that feels different from the genre. But then I got this. I've already listen to 112 albums, and at this point, I just don't want any british Pop rock album from the 80's. Every single singer sings the same way and I'm so tired that every time that a have to listen to this type of singing, I immediately roll my eyes. So, is this album bad? I don't know, because I could hear some experimentation, and that is something I always appreciate. Is this album good? I don't think so, because I can't stand this type of music. It is unfair? Maybe, but it is definetely unfair that there's so much of this type of music in this list. So, I'm giving it 2 stars as a thanks to this list for making me hating this genre.
I now finally get it with XTC. Previously, they were a band who could produce impressive soundscapes, but the totality of the songs still left me wanting. It's all come together for me now here. The beautiful sound is retained, and now the songs all hold up cohesively. Great, great album
Not a fan.
Not sure who I was thinking of but I thought XTC was a hip hop band. This album was not bad considering I didn’t expect it. Some songs seemed like 69s sons. 1 song could have been a James Bond them. Interesting.
not too bad. i like a new-wave adjacent vibe. Dear God was probably the best track.
Kind of just okay. Most of the tracks seemed like a weaker Bowie/Tears for Fears/Duran Duran song
I like to imagine someone has used that “it’s your big day” song in their wedding
Had a really strong start but became to beatles-esque
One of the more fascinating albums I've had so far. A similar experience like with XTC's "Apple Venus Volume 1" (#102) in that I'm at loss as to how I should file this within my usual system (there is no such thing but you get the point) of determining whether I like something or not. Psychedelic, baroque, happy weirdo 80ies chamber pop? Statistically, I should hate this. So many ways in which this could go horribly wrong. But this music here somehow balances on a tightrope over a canyon of possible shit - it's super endearing! Often like the Beatles circa Revolver found a time machine, shot 20 years into the future, had a little walk, took in some sights and sounds and got cracking in the studio? And then something else entirely. And it... works. Played this three times today. Really nice.
Better album than XTC should be making. A lot of it sounds like John Lennon during Revolver but it's actually pretty okay.
So at first the airy waffty 80s vocals gave me a bad feeling. But after listening they have a lot of experimental sounds and instruments and I thought that was cool. The mermaid song was like that and also I think that dear god song kind of has pop vibes of modern songs
Skylarking would be an excellent EP or drastically pared down album. Summer’s Cauldron, Grass, The Meeting Place, Dear God, Earn Enough For Us, and Another Satellite anchor an album that tends to drift in to mediocrity with its bloated middle. Look to their Black Sea album for classic hits like General Majors and Respectable Street.
New wave. very upbeat
Perfection.
The singer is banal, the songwriting isn't anything special, and the overall sound is dated. It is not bad, but I'm not going to agree with retrospective praise as a classic.
It's fine. I always feel like I should like XTC more than I do.
Overrepresentation of new wave and this is not one of the good ones. They say it sounds like the Beatles and I think that’s an insult to the Beatles 😆
Some interesting musical ideas, but kinda bland overall.
I was clearly in the right frame of mind for this because I loved it. Why haven't I listened to more XTC?
This is weapons-grade levels of British pop whimsy on display here - fortunately I'm totally into that shit :) Also Dear God was apparently not meant to originally be on this, and they added it later once it was successful - and that definitely tracks, it doesn't quite fit with the rest of the album (but what a tune it is)
I enjoyed this album for the 80’s nostalgia. You can hear some Beatles influence on a few songs but it’s not heavy handed as some reviews would suggest. It’s a well written and crafted and a pleasure to listen to.
This is a good pop record with some good songs. I can hear the Beatles influences here. All the same not a huge fan.
Actually enjoyed this, no clue who they were before this
I HATE NEW WAVE ITS DISGUSTING 0.5
82% Best: The Meeting Place; Ballet For A Rainy Day; Earn Enough For Us; The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul; Dear God Must-Hear? Sure
Everything works on this album.
Only knew XTC from their excellent hits. Looked forward to an entire album. Altough it's good, it never lived up to my expectations...Dear God is 5+ stars worth of course!
I had high hopes for this but I did not like it at all. Some of the music was okay but I found the vocals so irritating, the guy's accent + singing style really grates for me at points (esp in Grass, Dying and Sacrificial Bonfire). 1 star given grudgingly
Fairly forgettable.
Not awful but I can't say I'll be going back to this at any point
Not for me. Something about this kind of sophisticated guitar pop sound just doesn’t work for me
Bit bland
Very English, sounding like a 60's concept album with a prelude to the 90's Brit sound. And all wrapped up in 80's production. Solid.
Good enough
I suspect that most of us can't think about the band XTC without also thinking about the song "Dear God". For me- It came out in a time of my life when I was literally a Catholic schoolboy. Hearing it for the first time had me clutching my proverbial pearls. Was this satanic? It didn't sound anything like the satanic panic bands of the era. But the song was so catchy. So goddamn catchy. It felt so wrong to love the song as much as I did (do). Eventually the lyrics began to resonate and I started to examine my own personal belief system. Sooner or later everyone needs to accept that change is hard, but there is no growth without change. So I think I owe a lot to this band for this song alone. I don't know if XTC is still making music but we could sure use a few more songs in the same vein. Here's a few suggestions: Dear responsibility - the drinking bone's connected to the drug bone. Dear political ideology - maybe I shouldn't be voting on whether or not Einstein got his math right. Dear bewildered - trying and failing is still progress.
Pretty different than a lot of the 80s stuff I have heard.
I've tried to listen to this 3 times, and got bored 3 times. Unsure why is this album on this list and what value it adds to the greatest albums but for me 1 star
XTC. Amazingly creative songwriting. Any song that begins, you know you're going to be served something interesting for the next 3-4 minutes.
Love the song Dear God which I discovered a few years ago, was interesting to hear more songs from the band. I also liked the songs That's Really Super Supergirl and Dying.
Couldn’t really get a handle on this one. At times I was very on board and could hear shades of Custard, Ben Folds, even The Monkees. Quite whimsical and jaunty. At other times I was like “what even is this” and felt it was way too kitsch. I think I’d need to listen a bunch more to make up my mind but honestly wasn’t motivated enough to do that. Favourite songs were Grass and Mermaid Smiled. (2.5 stars)
I really couldn't get a read on this album, but I will say there were many moments where I was hooked into a song with a catchy moment. Supergirl was a particular favourite. A curious 3.5, definitely one that's up for a re-listen.
One decent song, the rest were okay.
Not a bad album, I did find it a bit boring and sleepy in some places but there was good stuff on here, the last few tracks were fantastic! Favorite Tracks: The Main Who Sailed Around His Soul, Dying, Dear God, and 1000 Umbrellas.
A lot to chew on with this one. I can honestly say I’ve never heard a band with a sound quite like theirs. I was sometimes entranced and sometimes bored, but I was never not fascinated by their originality. Very much worth hearing, and even worth re-listening, even if I’m not a huge fan of it at the end of the day. Best song: Season Cycle
I like XTC. This is a good album. 4 stars.
I like the earlier XTC, especially their upbeat singles, full of catchy tunes and nervous energy. This, though, I find less to my taste; just a bit too polit and deliberately crafted. Someone once said that XTC, as they progressed in their career, their two main themes were semi-pastoral idylls and the travails of the down-trodden breadwinner. And their tone is often leavened with a sort of snarky "I'm the smartest man in the room" energy. This vibe often leaves a bitter aftertaste, and is especially apparent in "Dear God", to an extent that even Andy Partridge thinks is a bit too much. It's like Christopher Hitchins wrote a pop song. I can't fault the pop craftsmanship and production. The animosity between Andy Partridge and Todd Rundgren is legendary, but it hasn't hurt the record any, at least as far as I can tell. That said, the Colin Moulding songs are the ones I enjoy most ('Grass' especially). Generally, I find this type of middle-aged, willfully domestic-scale chamber pop just a bit too polite for my tastes. I love the Fossil Fuel: XTC Singles Collection 1977-1992. That is a compilation of 31 really fantastic tracks from go to whoa. Skylarking is a pleasant a listenable album, superbly crafted and played, but not a record I would choose to spin on any given day.
3.1 - Ah I really wanted to like this and was looking forward to it. Felt like first and last song where great and the rest was a bit filler
I like the way this album starts, the nice transition between Summer's Cauldron and Grass is very satisfying. From there the album begins to lose me a bit until Mermaid Smile, which has a cool intro, and I liked The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul. Fave Tracks: Summer's Cauldron, Grass, The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul. 3.7/5
Actually, that wasn't a bad album, in fact it was pretty good, possibly even enjoyable at times. I would definitely recommend this for background listening but if you are listening to this on your headphones while walking on the street, it would be a bit meh. Also, this definitely doesn't feel like a 1986 album, but instead like something from this century. The last song "Dear God" was the best one and it definitely improved my experience and rating because they left me with that song in mind, and it also has the most listens on Spotify, which I hadn't noticed until I started enjoying it a bit too much.
Not a fan at all. I felt like I was in a Children’s TV show.
I really liked this - good melodies, interesting chord progressions, and some fun noises
Ah, it's finally Skylarking day! I'd never listened to XTC until I reviewed Apple Venus Vol. 1 last year. I wasn't wowed by Apple Venus, but I could appreciate what XTC was trying to achieve. I know that Skylarking is supposed to be fantastic, so I'm excited to fire up this album today! Unfortunately, like Apple Venus, I appreciate the vision and artistry of Skylarking, but it's just not for me. XTC are clearly talented musicians, but there's just something about the sound of this album that I don't really care for on a personal level. I do like that Skylarking feels akin to Sophistipop, but with more focus, and with a sound that feels unique and unforced. There were a few songs that I did like though: "Summer's Cauldron," "Earn Enough For Us," and "Dear God" were really good. Their sound was really accessible to me, and they all had some additional musical elements that I liked. "Dear God" really resonated with me; watching the US slip towards a fascist dictatorship lately has really shaken my faith in humanity and a higher power, and as a husband and a father, I feel so powerless to do anything for fear of putting myself at risk. Sometimes I just want to scream, and "Dear God" was really cathartic. I think XTC just isn't for me, even though I really wanted to like them. I respect their unique sound and their artistry, but this isn't an album I'd come back to.
To the hard-of-thinking for whom this isn’t just an immediate 5 stars: please return your ears to the kiosk when you’ve finished messing around with them and let someone else have a turn.
This was pleasant to listen to. The vocalist reminded me a bit of Bo burnham oddly enough.
Just brilliant
Great songs, great production. Impeccable record
WOW!!!!! I’ve probably heard this whole thing before, and I’m certainly familiar with many of the tracks; listening to skylarking in its entirety was a sublime privilege!
Real nice harmonic content for a pop album, clearly Beatles and other psychedelia inspired. Need some more listens to dig in.
Some good music here ... I even marked one as a favorite (sacrificial Bonfire) so I could come back again. Also listened to some earlier stuff ... not as good .. so overall it was a good listen.
It's a tease. So much clever! Interesting arrangements, clean production Great backline. But only 3 real songs. The rest is frustrating, over-conceptualized, and affected. Dear God is pretty great though.
This review will not include the "Dear God" bonus track from the 2001 remaster. I've heard a few songs here and there from XTC, a group that has undergone some drastic stylistic changes over the years. These guys started as a new wave band and embraced more psychedelic pop by the end of the 1980s. We get a good sampling of that latter psychedelia on their ninth album Skylarking. This album oozes with inspiration from the more experimental late 60s music such as what the Beatles, the Beach Boys, and Pink Floyd were doing. Orchestral players were brought in to add a lively swell to the group's songs, such as the string arrangements that comprise the somber tone of "1000 Umbrellas", the mix of violin and guitar on "Grass", and the Beach Boys pastiche of "Season Cycle". Aiding that sentiment is the more free-form styled songwriting from Andy Patridge that captured a more emotionally resonant vibe, and Todd Rundgren's production chops which added the necessary warmth to these songs even as he was battling with Andy behind the scenes. My main problem with Skylarking is how wildly inconsistent in style and tone this album can get in trying to recapture the essence of what worked well for the psychedelic pop music of the late 1960s. Andy and his mates tried various arrangements and compositions without much to tie it all together thematically. This observation is especially noticeable at the start of the second half with the more standard power pop tune "Earn Enough for Us", the jazzy "Mermaid Smiled", and the beatnik "The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul". Some of these songs sound great on their own, but they lack cohesion when put together. All's to say that Skylarking is a solid compilation of songs that wears its influence on its sleeve, and made for a reasonably decent listen with that mindset.
Beatles melded with Tears for Fears - I actually quite like the first half of the album, the production is amazing. The second half feels like much of the same unfortunately. Altogether I'm glad I listened to it. Another 3.5.
Album starts off weak to me. I hate bubblegum/dreamy pop, and as much as this is a rock album, it is more pop to my ears and liking. I thought this was nothing special, but i'd have still preffered it over whatever the music they're blasting off in beach clubs nowadays. Then the end of the album hit, the melancholy of Dying, the hope of Dear God (And the kid sings really well!) and the overall vibe of The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul. Maybe it isn't the greatest album i've ever listened, but it definitely earned its way into top 10 easily with the last songs.
I just skimmed through this album because I had wisdom teeth surgery, every song sounded kinda the same to me in the first half of the album. I didn’t hate it but not really my thing. I think my mom likes this band so I’ll give them an extra star for that. 3/5
Very fun sounding music, and it was a really unique use of a lot of different instruments and very clever lyrically. That being said, I just never got super into any of the songs. 3/5 Fav song: Grass
Maybe I was missing something, but I couldn't really get into it. Didn't love his voice either.
Not exactly my personal taste per se, but there was some pretty clever lyrics, including the double entendre "It would shock you, the things we did on grass." Overall a very nostalgic vibe for an English group taking advantage of ALLLL the technology at hand in the 80s. Honestly enjoyed it more than I thought it would.
Sounds like a perfect spring day. Sadly, I got bad allergies
Liked these vibes!
One of those albums where it's really hard to form an opinion over a short space of time and then a simple score out of 5 feels too dry and reductive. I was pretty optimistic as XTC is quoted as being a big influence on Britpop and Blur in particular, and I definitely felt similarities to Parklife tracks. I was also optimistic as I 'met' Todd Rundgren last month on the challenge and really liked his solo album, and then read that he'd been brought in to channel the songwriting and arrangements here, and had wanted to build on the concept elements. All really promising before I'd even pressed play. So I was a little underwhelmed on the first listen but went away and found that bits of it had embedded themselves into my head. There are these great little bits of melody and hooks sprinkled throughout that really caught my ear. I don't necessarily think the 'concept' landed in the way that some albums nail it; songs run into each other quite seamlessly and there are noticeable lyrical themes, but it doesn't feel like a journey or experience to me. And the risk is that by running into each other, it can feel like a series of long pieces without enough definition. I'm probably being a bit generous and giving it more of a chance to 'click' with me as I want to like it, but I did find it really interesting and I will keep it in rotation a bit longer as some parts have really stuck with me. I feel like I'm still guessing at my rating at this point, and it might be one I amend later.
it's like if 00s emo made an album in 1986
Never heard of these guys, but really enjoyed the album, especially Dear God. Great album.
Just a three from me.
Skylarking by XTC. XTC (which I've now only just clocked is probably called ecstasy...am I just dumb) was a sleeper hit for me in this project, and this album hasn't disappointed me either. There's just something about it that makes it a real treat to listen to, I did occasionally find myself zoning out a bit but then it would all change up and engross me again
Highlights: The Meeting Place, Earn Enough For Us. In a nutshell: songs of life. You can tell that a few Britpop musicians were inspired by this album and XTC. It's not a bad thing. Overall: 5/10
I don't know what it is about this album that I like but don't quite love. I guess it's just a bit lacking in energy, and too conventional all around? Definitely very emotional and well put-together, not upset that I heard this
The production is superb throughout the whole album.
I like it okay for 80s - it doesn’t speak to me.
4.5/10
Certainly an interesting album to say the least. Much after the new wave, well "wave", of acts in the early 80's, XTC brings some unique instrumentation to the scene here. Everything flows well and Andy Partridge just has that quintessential 80's British pop voice ala Tears for Fears. It's all very fantastical. Perhaps the group tried to mimic The Beatles a tad much here and there, given the heavy influences of 60's psychedelia.
In its own way, Skylarking represents a musical throwback: an 80s version of 60s music. "Umbrellas" is interesting, and "Season Cycle" works for me. I agree with the decision to add "Dear God" - best track on the album. But that was about it. The other songs seemed kind of silly and not particularly well done.
Not my type
Pretty good british
couple songs not bad
Super interesting mix of new wave and Genesis-esque progressive music. With that said, some songs sounded like they could’ve been straight out of the nineties? I don’t care, I dug it.
I didn't know the album before, but I have to say I like it. The sound is calm and what struck me immediately was that it reminded me of the Beatles. Not the Beatles exactly, of course, but there's a certain Beatles vibe to it. I like it. It doesn't sound anything like "Making Plans Form Nigel", but it definitely has its qualities. The melodies are very beautiful and now on the second listen I've discovered a little bit of "Tears For Fears". All I can say is well done. I like the "Beatles", I like "Tears For Fears", I like "XTC", I like this album.
I hadn't really noticed that most of the albums I consider "great" are also pretty depressing. They might be ironic or heartfelt, but rarely just happy. I was surprised listening to this album how upbeat many of these songs are. And how much I enjoyed them. They remind me of Paul MacCartney's "granny" songs, which I also really enjoy. 4/5
didnt expect anything, was pleasantly surprised, Dear God is great song to end this banger of an album
Ok
love 1000 umbrellas
Don’t hate this, but it managed to be wowed without being interesting somehow
This rating just kept creeping up as the album went on. Solid finish. Really liked it and would listen to more.
I have only heard of one XTC song and it wasn't on here, which I was a little disappointed at, but I don't even think that song would have gained any extra stars.
Maybe I'm being generous but I really liked this, solid sound with a load of influences I could hear but it still sounded unique. Might listen to more of these guys.
2+ Stars (6/15)
Interesting
This feels like it should have been something I liked, but somehow it was just... meh
This would be a good soundtrack for a new Austin powers movie
raise your hands if it took you a while to get that xtc = ecstasy
3,5
Hated this one so much.
'Dear God' is the name of the last song, and also what I said to myself when I realised I had finally got there. I don't even think it's (objectively) bad, but I just honestly disliked listening to this and I don't exactly know why
I don't know, I guess this album is too British for me to understand it or something, because this album just sounds really boring to me. The songs just kind of meander around and he isn't a very captivating singer, so there isn't really much going for this album. If I wanted to listen to this type of music I would just pick Tears for Fears, since their songwriting is infinitely better (and they have a nice voice). I really had to stop myself some skipping some of these songs. Mid 2.
Actually quite tuneful 4?
This is a weird album for the 80s. There's a lot of 60s influence and it is a bit creative here and there but it feels pretty unfocused. I feel like there's a few strands here that could go into interesting places but nothing really came together for me.
I don't know why this is going in my ear holes. I need an album to turn things around. The days are getting longer, getting more sun, I should be in a better mood but we are on a run of mid albums. There are unequivocally better versions of everything they are doing here. Ahhh why!? Dear God, I know this one and it has something going for it. Okay, but one interesting song doesn't make this a good album or an album that you NEED to listen to before you die. I wanted badly to give this 1 star. Even tho most of the tracks felt like a waste of my time, there is some fine construction.
A bit cliche for a 1986 album isn't it? Thought it was released in the 60s. Phoney Beatlemania...
This is fairly good. There are songs on this album that sound, to me at least, pretty clearly inspired from others. I’m not sure if I would say that’s derivative or if it’s paying homage. It’s all about how much they use and for the most part it isn’t too noticeable. For example “The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul” has some clear “Nature Boy” vibes going for it. The line between respecting the original and building upon it and just taking and using is hard to discern. Other songs seemed to do it better so I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt. Otherwise, some songs could feel a little goofy, but wholly original and unique to the band. Especially instrumentally. Vocals aren’t the most groundbreaking thing I’ve ever heard, but they get the job done. I enjoyed most of it, but wouldn’t listen to the whole album again. Just specific songs and that’s alright. 4/5
An absolute masterclass in pop. Very 80s. Very British. A whimsical, psychedelic feast. Honestly, there's so much to devour here. The electric, brimming "Summer's Cauldron" leading seamlessly into the beautiful (and scandalous?) "Grass". "The Meeting Place", making a dreary industrial landscape lush. The precious "Ballet for a Rainy Day" turning on an instant into the manic "1000 Umbrellas". It's very much an album of it's time, but it's perennially fresh, and never dull. Of course, there's "Dear God", their massively successful single that was hastily slapped on the end of the album after release. It was a song that I really gravitated to when I discovered this album in high school, in my rather cringey anti-theist phase. It's still a good song and all, but over time it's lost a bit of its lustre for me. I actually think it's weaker than most of the other tracks. I prefer to end it on "Sacrificial Bonfire". All in all, an enduring classic. Absolutely love. Fav tracks: Summer's Cauldron, Grass, The Meeting Place, That's Really Super Supergirl, Earn Enough for Us, Big Day, Mermaid Smiled, Sacrificial Bonfire
I was not terribly familiar with this band and was very surprised how unique this album is. I'll keep listening for sure.
Ágætis 80's
I really like this kind of pop. I thought I could remember listening to XTC a couple of years ago and not being into it at all but this is great. Doing my best to avoid seeming obnoxious but there's an esoteric flair to it that keeps it interesting but catchy. Each track is distinct enough but they manage to maintain a consistent atmosphere through the album Great stuff. I want to come back to XTC's other stuff at some point 3/6/26 Edit: I'm putting this up to a 5 as it's by far the most I've come back to an album I hadn't heard before and I think XTC are becoming one of my favourite bands Highlights: Another Satellite, Summer's Cauldron, That's Really Super Supergirl, Grass, Big Day
Better start than ending. Grass is by far the best song of the album.
5/5. Every song on here is just so well written and catchy, front to back no skips. The album feels like a concept album but is mostly songs about life and death, not a specific one. I have listened to this album a few times before already and each time a different song stands out. There is a sense of naivety with Dear God but it honestly feels just very direct about its intentions and says just the right things to be valid in its conclusion. The many other songs are excellent of course, but it's always so funny the reactions to that specific song because there really is no argument, they are just upset someone is providing facts. Seeing that on the wiki article about riots because of the song was hilarious. Best Song: Dear God, 1000 Umbrellas, Grass, Sacrificial Bonfire
++: That's Really Super, Supergirl, 1000 Umbrellas, The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul +: Summer's Cauldron, Grass, The Meeting Place, Ballett for a Rainy Day, Season Cycle, Another Satellite, Mermaid Smiled, Dying, Sacrificial Bonfire +-: Earn Enough for Us, Big Day 7,2/10
ehkä yks fiksuimmista bändeistä pakko kyl sanoo! varmaan yks ehkä nerokkaimmista, älykkäimmistä bändeistä ootteko samaa mieltä? en kovinkaan montaa muuta bändiä pysty miettimään että olisivat nokkelempia kuin XTC. ei kovin moni osaa miettiä samalla aallonpituuksilla kun nämä heh, nimittäin aika fiksua porukkaa kuitenkin kyseessä... harvempi pysyy perässä näiden perässä harvempi pysyy sen verran kuitenkin ollaan pohtimassa.. pohtijapojat.. leuka lepäilee avoimella kämmenellä kun miettii hmmmmmmm sanoo XTC. ja sitten HEUREKA... tehdään kitara ja laulataan rummut pumtsika pum pum... one of the smartest british pop band to emerge from the punk and new ... summers cauldron
I expected more energy from a band named after Ecstasy. It was okay, but I won't listen to it again.
Brit Electro Pop, oder wie nennt man das? Manche Melodien ind ich nicht so gut, aber insgesamt n chilliges Album, also zum ruhigen Nebenbei hören. 3 Sterne
ganz ok. fand die erste hälfte besser, zweite eher mäßiger.
Medium, nichts zu meckern, nichts zu feiern. Songs der Playlist hinzugefügt: Keine
exciting fun & unique, though can drag in some parts of second half
I'm sure these guys are well known in Britain, but I confess that I'd never heard of them. That's good though, as it means I had very few if any expectations or prejudices going in. Huge psychedelic vibes on this one. Really unexpected from an album released in 1986. It really felt like, at moments, they were really Beatles-inspired. I guess that shouldn't be surprising, given that they probably grew up in the 60's/70's Britain. (A quick check of the Wiki article confirms this.) I think you can condense my opinion on this one into one thought - they try to emulate that 60's sound, but they just can't do it as well as it was done back then. It's unfortunate, because there's so many wonderful ideas here. But the entire thing felt more like a band trying to be something they weren't, and something that didn't exist anymore and couldn't be recreated. All of that said, I really liked this. Some of it was a little cringey by today's standards ("That's Really Super, Supergirl" really needed to not). But the creativity on display here, the riffs, the production all come together to make a perfectly listenable, if not derivative, album experience. I just wish they could've made it all sound a little more authentic and less like an imitation of a sound that wasn't their own. It also didn't need to be as long as it was. Easily could've been a 35 minute album and I would've liked it more. The fact that I didn't find any of the songs after the half way point worth adding to my standout tracks below is telling. Overall, though, three stars. Perfectly enjoyable, a nice throwback, easy listen. Standout Tracks: Summer's Cauldron, Grass, 1000 Umbrellas, Season Cycle, Earn Enough for Us
This wasnt unpleasant, but it fidnt blow me away. My 74 year old mother was here and she enjoyed the nostalgia as she was mid 30's when it came out. A good couple singles and a pleasant vibe
more mid britpop despite tantalizing moments of proto-deerhunter weirds O.o
This album has been so different, that i am unsure if i would be able to rate it fairly. Sound wise i am surprised, so solid and modern considering when it was released. Also a very fresh sound. Composition is diverse, which make it easy to hook on. I would love to give a 4 but i didn’t understand it fully. Will review it later.
Irrelevant.
Enjoyable.
It‘s ok
Not for me, just didn't get any vibes.
It was alright, not anything special.
I've never enjoyed this very 80s sound
Didn't mind it
Pretty good, some really good songs
This album grew and grew on me. A fine mix of pop, psychedelia and whimsy, reminiscent of, among others, the Beatles and Divine Comedy. Earn Enough for Us is a classic, so catchy.
It's weird and sometimes too much, but it's quite entertaining.
Again, a really odd album. I really want to like this album as it's has all the odd quirky elements, intelligent lyrics and is certainly unlike other bands. The problem is I just can't get into it.
Some wacky songs
Starts and ends strong (summers cauldron, grass, dear god) but the gooey center lets it down a bit
Meh.
I really like earlier XTC, but this just didn’t click.
The stuttering madness of the singing is a big turn off. Some songs are worth a relisten
XTC should stick to making plans for Nigel
One of those albums that just blended into the background and did little to stand out.
Inventive and well produced. Worth more listens.
Seems very British. Not bad. Dear God is the standout for me and it seems to not match the rest of the album.
Never heard of this group, but I liked them a lot! Grass is going in my downloads
I bought this - not at the time but later - and listened to it enough that going back to it every song was surprisingly familiar. This project has also given me a much deeper regard for it. An album of originality, musical experimentation and a heap of good songs. Having two songwriters creates a great contrast too. This deserves to be here.
Crazy, I didn't think I'd remember as much of this album as I did, so many melodies that just stick right in your head and never leave. Fantastic record. 50 minutes of complete bangers, there isn't a bad song on here. Production is amazing as well
I never listened to xtc despite friends being big fans. A great mix of tracks that sound like a lot of other artists
Not for me
2.5
Not bad. Again not my thing.
Not for me
It's a bit shit
Not really my thing but still pretty enjoyable! Season Cycle is probably my favorite, the whole album has a pretty nice easygoing energy, but it makes it a little lame? Weird point against it but its the best way I can put it. Absolutely worth a listen.
This album sounds like XTC wanted to make Pet Sounds their own way, and it’s pretty good!
Conociendo otros trabajos de XTC como "Drums and Wires" o "Oranges and Lemons", sabía que la banda de Andy Patridge era buena, pero "Skylarking" me dejó sorprendido. La producción de Todd Rudgren ciertamente ayuda, pero las composiciones de este LP son sumamente interesantes, ya que mezclan melodías pop con estructuras poco comunes que podrían haber sido sacadas de los trabajos más experimentales de The Beatles o David Bowie. Probablemente, mi disco favorito de XTC, y les aseguro que no saldrá de mis reproducciones habituales. Por favor, escúchelo.
It's not bad but super mediocre. Nothing special at all and it doesn't do anything for me.
A nice one, with lots of fun little melodies and recording tricks. Will look forward to coming back to it. 7/10
This was interesting. There were some moments when it honestly felt a little Beatles-y and I was really digging it, but then there were moments when it just felt whiny and kinda boring and predictable. Overall I did enjoy it, but I probably wouldn't listen again. Three stars.
Geweldig album,gave nummers, origineel
Every song sounds like a different genre or even totally different band at certain points. Interesting mix of all kinds of styles and instruments, done very tastefully. Last song, Dear God, is really good and kind of spooky to me but overall the album is too varied for me, I need something that kind of stays close to a lane, this album is swerving through lanes like they missed their exit.
quality pop rock album that is exceedingly bri ish. this was a great listen from start to finish.
My grandma has been wheelchair-bound for 6 years now. I decided to sit down and listen to this album with her; once “Dear God” started to play, she wheeled over to the speaker, picked it up, and threw it on the ground. She then preceded to wheel herself back and forth over the speaker, and, finally, emptied her catheter onto it. She’s never been happier.
Man, this was a cacophony of instruments and effects (i.e. birds chirping) that I did not need.
Yeah…no.
There were times as I was listening that I thought this might be an album I couldn’t into but then a song would come on that would erase that feeling.
Didn’t love it didn’t hate it. Reminds me of Cindy.
Wobbly moddy English late 80s pop
Skylarking is the ninth studio album by XTC, originally released in 1986. This is my first time listening to anything by XTC. I was expecting a much more 80s-sounding album. This record obviously takes a lot of inspiration from 60s music. I hear shades of The Beatles and The Kinks. There's even some psych callbacks on here with some sitar and tabla action. This is apparently supposed to be a concept album but I don't hear much of a concept at all. Overall it's some pretty cool 80s alternative rock.
is like a happier Elliott Smith at a festival
4+/5
Il doit me manquer un bout d'histoire car je n'ai jamais entendu parler de cet album ou de ce band et j'ai vraiment de la misère à voir en quoi il est si important. J'ai trouvé que je n'entendais pas grand chose de nouveau ou de marquant. Bonne production, bonne instrumentation, mais des compositions qui me laissaient sur ma faim. 4/10
I’m not sure if I really love it or if I really hate it but I’m tapping my feet so ?????
It’s fine I guess but was really nothing remarkable
3.5 stars. Alt rock/pop that is a bit baroque but works. Fun little melodic stretches and creative songwriting. A couple duds (including "Mermaid Smiled") but some standouts as well, "Earn Enough For Us" and "Dear God". Overall it is a different twist on standard pop rock that incorporates a lot of different sounds.
In-Depth Review of Skylarking by XTC Released on October 27, 1986, Skylarking is the ninth studio album by the English rock band XTC, produced by Todd Rundgren. The album is often hailed as one of the band's finest works and a landmark in the evolution of alternative rock, characterized by its lush arrangements and introspective lyrics. This review will explore the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, while also discussing its pros and cons. ****Lyrics Analysis The lyrics of Skylarking are a tapestry of personal reflection, social commentary, and whimsical storytelling. They explore themes of love, loss, nature, and the passage of time. Youth and Innocence: The opening track "Summer’s Cauldron" sets a nostalgic tone, evoking the carefree essence of summer while hinting at deeper undercurrents of change and impermanence. The lyrics capture the sensory experiences of summer—heat, sounds, and sights—while subtly introducing the concept of life's cyclical nature. Love and Relationships: Songs like "Mermaid Smiled" delve into complex emotional landscapes. Here, frontman Andy Partridge reflects on lost love with poignant imagery that conveys both longing and acceptance. The juxtaposition of upbeat melodies with melancholic lyrics is a recurring motif throughout the album. Mortality and Reflection: Tracks such as "Dying" confront themes of mortality and reminiscence. The sparse arrangement complements the lyrical content, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and introspective. Partridge's exploration of personal loss resonates deeply with listeners. Existential Themes: The album culminates in "Sacrificial Bonfire," which serves as a metaphor for endings and transitions. The lyrics reflect on rituals associated with change, symbolizing the end of summer and the inevitability of life's cycles. ****Musical Composition Musically, Skylarking marks a significant evolution in XTC's sound. It blends elements from various genres including art rock, psychedelic pop, and new wave. Psychedelic Influences: The album is heavily influenced by 1960s psychedelia. Tracks like "Another Satellite" feature lush harmonies and intricate arrangements that evoke a sense of dreamy nostalgia. Orchestral Arrangements: Rundgren's production adds depth to the music through orchestral arrangements and innovative soundscapes. Songs such as "The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul" incorporate jazz elements with rhythmic bongos and piano chords that create a unique listening experience. Cohesive Sound: The album flows seamlessly from track to track, with sound effects linking songs together to enhance its conceptual feel. This approach reinforces the idea that Skylarking is more than just a collection of songs; it operates as a cohesive narrative. ****Production Quality The production process for Skylarking was fraught with tension between XTC and producer Todd Rundgren. Despite these challenges, Rundgren's influence ultimately shaped the album's distinctive sound. Creative Tension: Partridge often clashed with Rundgren over artistic choices, leading to a difficult recording atmosphere. However, this tension may have contributed to the album's creative output. Rundgren's insistence on certain arrangements forced the band to refine their ideas. Innovative Techniques: Rundgren employed various studio techniques that enhanced the album's texture. His use of drum programming and orchestral elements added layers to XTC's sound that were not present in previous works. Final Product: The resulting production is rich and multi-dimensional, showcasing XTC's ability to blend complex musical ideas with accessible pop sensibilities. The clarity of each instrument allows listeners to appreciate the intricacies of the arrangements. ****Themes Explored The overarching themes in Skylarking revolve around nature, time, love, and existential reflection. Nature and Seasons: The cyclical nature of life is a central theme. Each song reflects different aspects of this cycle—from the vibrancy of summer to the introspection associated with autumn. Personal Growth: Many tracks explore personal development through relationships and experiences. The lyrics often convey a sense of maturity as they navigate love's complexities and life's inevitable changes. Cultural Commentary: XTC also touches on broader societal issues through their lyrics. While maintaining an intimate perspective, they comment on human behavior within various contexts—romantic relationships being one prominent example. ****Influence on Music Skylarking has had a lasting impact on both XTC's career trajectory and the broader music landscape. Critical Acclaim: Upon its release, Skylarking received widespread critical acclaim but was not an immediate commercial success. Over time, however, it has been recognized as one of the defining albums of its era. Legacy: The album influenced many artists in alternative rock and beyond. Its blend of introspective lyrics with sophisticated musical arrangements paved the way for future bands exploring similar themes in their work. Reevaluation Over Time: Initially dismissed by some critics for lacking hit singles, Skylarking has since been reevaluated as a cohesive masterpiece that stands out in XTC's discography. ****Pros and Cons Evaluating Skylarking, several strengths and weaknesses emerge: Pros Lyrical Depth: The album features some of XTC's most profound lyrics that resonate emotionally with listeners across generations. Musical Innovation: Its blend of genres showcases XTC’s versatility as musicians while pushing boundaries within alternative rock. Cohesive Concept: The thematic unity throughout the album creates an immersive listening experience that encourages repeated plays. Production Quality: Todd Rundgren’s production elevates the music’s complexity while maintaining clarity in each track’s arrangement. Cons Initial Reception: Some listeners may find it less accessible due to its lack of conventional singles compared to other albums from that era. Tension During Production: The conflicts between band members and Rundgren might have resulted in some compromises that could have affected creative freedom. Pacing Issues: Certain tracks may feel slower or less engaging compared to others within the album’s flow, potentially affecting overall enjoyment for some listeners. In conclusion, Skylarking by XTC stands as a significant achievement in alternative rock history. Its intricate blend of lyrical depth, musical innovation, and production quality creates an enduring work that continues to resonate with audiences today. While it faced challenges during its creation and initial reception, its legacy has grown over time—solidifying its place as one of XTC's most celebrated albums.
I read that this was the best of all XTC's albums. I sure hope that they don't have any more on this list. Meh
Well, this was dull. Even nude flautists on the cover can’t spice this album up.
Really didn't care for this one
Went into this completely blind, never heard of it and it was genuinely lovely almost the entire time.
I really enjoyed this! "Dear God" was particularly good, even though it wasn't originally on the album. I have never heard of this band, but I would definitely listen to more of them in the future.
I guess at least I finally learned who does the annoying child singing "dear God, " song
Really confused at how much I didn’t like this. Kept expecting it to get better. It did not.
They had a fun and interesting sound but it just felt like it was missing something.
I thought it would be better.
This bored me. No hooks, nothing to latch on to. I expected more pop lines tbh. Disappointing
Felt like something inventive from the early 70s but not an experiment that I think really succeeded. Middling 2.
Alternative band from the late 80’s/90’s. Music ok.
Unexpectedly I like it. Somewhat chill rock, good guitar, interesting lyrics. Voice is average.
I really dislike XTC and their happy go lucky sound
Very very good considering this is many albums deep in their career. The material here is very distinctive and inspired, it holds up very well for it. The band's charming quirkiness is still very present here. I prefer their earlier work overall but this did not disappoint 👍
The only track I remembered from this band was Only making plans for Nigel. Upon listening thought the album quite good. Musically and vocally sound and original in production. At times reminiscent of Roland Orzabal from Tears for fears vocally. Overall not a bad listen.
Haven’t given this a thought in 30+ years. Used to love it back then. After a full listen today, I know why I haven’t thought about it since then.
Mellow af
Another uninteresting album today. XTC did a great song once called "We're Making Plans for Nigel". But that song isn't on "Skylarker". The first 5 songs gave me hope that it's gonna be great. More tracks later, that hope was crushed. I'll give "Skylarker" 3 stars.
Interesting album. Didnt really get into it thought. Standout songs: Summers Cauldron Earn Enough for Us Dear God
good stuff, but not as good as i remember. dear god is still the standout
Hate to say it but them veering into a theological or spiritual direction just comes off as kinda dated and corny. Cool they explored new angles but it's not my fav side of them. Just can't help but wonder what Nigel's up to.. 2.5
Meh.
Just couldn't really get into it. It started promising, but it had lost me after a few tracks.
Skylarking is a fine album. The album honestly does feel like a new wave album even though that genre was not listed in this album's list of genres. The songs here are generally all pretty well done with some decent melodies throughout all of them. The sound of them did sound a little bit jarring at first but i got more used to it as the album progressed. My main issue is the seamless song transitions which would sound fine if done through an actual record/cassette/CD player but when I'm here listening to them on YouTube through the album's official playlist, it becomes fairly awkward. This album is a pretty decent addition to the library. Best Song: Season Cycle Worst Song: Grass
Interessantes und abwechslungsreich chaotisches Album der goldenen 80er. Es enthält mir “Dear God” Stilikone des Wave und Punkrockzeit. Insgesamt auch ein konzeptionell gutes Album; ich freue mich aufs Wiederhören.
Day279 - kind of an underrated band overshadowed by the big 80’s bands like the cute,rem and the smiths but they have some really good songs
The thing I thought most while listening to this was "I wish I was listening to the Beatles", closely followed by "I wish I was listening to the Beach Boys." It's not a good sign if I'm mostly daydreaming about other music while listening to your album. Am I meant to be impressed that you managed to replicate the sound of the 60s in 1986?
A couple of hits I like and a couple of new ones to me that I liked. But not memorable enough to keep in rotation.
Seems to be designed with as few redeeming qualities as possible
I wanted to like it more than I did. There are better 80's new wave examples IMO
insipid
A bit one note, was bored by the end
я долго внимательно слушала и ничего не помню на следующий день) вроде норм
Very good album. Seemed like music I'd actually listen to
Pretty inoffensive album but very forgettable. I mean it was ok; as middle of the road as you can get. 6/10.
silly silly stuff. show tunes adjacent frankly. i feel like this would be very appealing to a little kid. probably i could learn to like it if i listened to it enough but i am not gonna do that.
though not technically bad it was too hokie for me...kind of like joke music
I enjoyed the sound of XTC, I thought they were a new band for me but after checking their page I realized I did know “Mayor of Simpleton” (their Spotify #5) and could then hear it throughout. Another album I wish could have half-star ratings.. 3.25/5 rounding down as no tracks jumped out at me
5/5 This album feels really creative, yet also very comforting. The vocals are fantastically engaging, and the production is super tight. I love the orchestration and introduction of classical and retro elements while embracing new sounds. The parts where songs flow into each other work brilliantly as well, with the consistent themes creating a better experience. Overall, this is just an exceptional piece of music. Summer's Cauldron 4.5/5 Grass 4.5/5 The Meeting Place 5/5 That's Really Super, Supergirl 5/5 Ballet For A Rainy Day 5/5 1000 Umbrellas 4.5/5 Season Cycle 5/5 Earn Enough For Us 4/5 (LEAST FAV) Big Day 5/5 Another Satellite 5/5 (FAV) Mermaid Smiled 5/5 The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul 4.5/5 Dying 5/5 Sacrificial Bonfire 4/5
I was a big XTC fan in the 90s but am underwhelmed by their later stuff. Maybe its the vocals but I just can't see choosing to listen to this one again
XTC is really a great discovery in this project. Another great album and more of their typical sound.
When it comes to XTC, I’m not really sure if I’m a fan or not. I’ve only listened to most of their albums once, and usually just in the background. I’ve spent a bit more time with English Settlement, and it was a decent album, and now I’ve given Skylarking a couple of listens. This album is a big deal for them, probably their most well respected work. Personally, I’d say it’s slightly better than average. It’s a lush, colorful album from start to finish, and while it’s not bad at all, it doesn’t have many qualities that really make it stand out. After a while, it starts to get a bit boring. So overall, I’d give this album a fair, middle of the road rating.
Nothing really that special, but a solid album nonetheless.
I liked this album a lot. XTC is always a band that I imagine sounding completely different than they actually do; means I should listen more often. But this has some cool twists and turns and some theatricality that make it similar to Oingo Boingo. 4.25/5
Thought I heard this one before. Was pretty disappointed with it as I assumed I'd like it for some reason. It was nothing special and I was bored with it. 2/5
I need to get more XTC albums besides English Settlement. This is lovely stuff. B
I was obsessed with the follow up to this album, Oranges and Lemons. I still pull it up to listen to occasionally. While I have never listened to this album in its entirety, I certainly knew some of the songs - Dear God, most notably. I have always appreciated how the sound of XTC is so current but also throw back. It’s catchy pop with an alternative twist. Great stuff. This album is not as good as Oranges and Lemons, to me. I still really enjoyed it. It’s just happy music.
XTC is another one of those bands that I find interesting but have never dug too deep on. This album has a lot of interesting moments but Dear God sticks out and doesn't really fit, which I guess is why it wasn't originally included but it had to be because it's such a great song. Other songs I enjoyed were Summer's Cauldron, 1000 Umbrellas
Picking this over "Drums & Wires" has me 🤨. Still, though, it's a good XTC album - seeing some reviews talk about the different versions, I made sure to listen to one with both "Dear God" and "Mermaid Smiled" on it, though "Mermaid Smiled" didn't really strike me as an essential. I love these guys. Fave tracks - "Dear God" is the big one, and a fave to sing at karaoke if I get the chance - 2.40 on is great fun to sing. "The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul" is a fun jazzy departure from everything else. I really dig the opening run of "Summer's Cauldron" -> "Grass" -> "The Meeting Place" - really does instill a summery vibe over proceedings!
Sure
It's alright, I guess. I appreciate the concept and the cohesion, but it just doesn't grab me.
I had a hope that maybe after powering through the last 6 days, the universe would throw me a bone. And I am delighted to say that it did. I didn’t know what to expect, but I don’t think I could have asked for something better. The name XTC seemed oddly familiar to me for some reason. I’m sure it’s just because I’ve come across the name at some point on the internet. But I had never heard music from them. I saw new wave and post-punk being thrown around, but this album in particular was being labeled psychedelic pop rock. So I was intrigued to say the least. And it seems like the band intended to thrust the listener into this unique world very quickly. Unlike the music from earlier in their career, this draws heavily on the contemporary sounds of the 60s. Taking inspiration from Love, The Zombies, Os Mutantes, and of course The Beatles. 1000 Umbrellas could probably fit right in on Revolver. But they don’t entirely abandon their roots. Because the jangle pop and new wave foundations are still here. And somehow, they manage to make this undeniably strange combination work. And near flawlessly as well. This, to me, is the absolute best example of why I still love doing this even after all I’m put through. Finding new music that really blows me away like this makes it all worth it. This album balances lighthearted and super catchy songwriting with some amazing arrangements. The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul is straight up a jazz pop song, and it is way too fucking cool. It also has some spectacular production from Todd Rundgren. Although I’ll agree that the mixing could be a little more full in some places. I just really admire what they are doing here. Every song is doing something original and unique. And there aren’t any objectively bad songs that I outright dislike. It’s all around a very impressive effort. I’m just happy that I was able to end potentially the most lackluster week I’ve ever had on a strong note. Rating: 8/10
I had a very similar feeling listening to this one that I had while listening to "Apple Venus Volume 1" previously on the list. It starts very generic and without highlights but slowly grabs my attention, showing exciting songs with excellent arrangements and different instrumentation that definitively deserve a spot among the 1001 discs I would like to know before I die. I think "Apple Venus Volume 1" may be better, but now I can't finish this challenge without giving five stars to them in at least one album.
Found this one a bit annoying.
Meh, not really my thing. It’s competent, just not my taste.
5 estrelas !
Easily one of the best pop albums I have ever heard from the 1980s. The songs actually have depth and mystery as opposed to the artist finding the 1,000,001st way to describe the woman they are lusting after. The music is interesting and varied. It sounds like a mashup of Roger Waters and Ween to my ears, and that is a very good thing. A total surprise, and a positive reminder of why I am doing this project.
This record is like a mix of The Beach Boys and The Kinks. It’s breezy but still a bit odd. There are lots of layers and little quirks in the production. The songs drift between whimsical and melancholic, which keeps it interesting. Sometimes it feels a bit too polished, though, like the edges were smoothed out. Still, it has its charm in the melodies and quirky lyrics.
Cute, fun, enjoyable if a bit long and samey. Can see why people ate this up in the 80s.
Why does anyone like this band. They are so boring.
I like xtc but this album never clicked with me. I enjoyed a few songs but some are a bit corny. I really hate the kids voice on dear god. The album is interesting and different though.
Not bad
A strange and pleasant mix of Ben Folds and Elvis Costello and the Beatles and God knows what else.
Enjoyable, digestable, not overwhelmingly 80's or new wave. And also not showboaty, just decently crafted alternative pop tunes.
Whereas Black Sea would be a 4 or 5 for me, this is a 3 for me. Dear God is my standout choice. But the rest is too...trippy sounding. Too many trippy songs strung together is no so good to me.
XTC was a British band that made music in a range of style through their career. Through its evolution, the band consistently met with critical success, but never found the commercial success to match. Skylarking is the band's ninth studio album, and is regarded as the band's best work. Skylarking is a collection of elaborately arranged pop songs, with catchy lyrics and engaging melodies. XTC, and particularly Skylarking, is a great example of a confusing element of popular music: some incredibly good music does not become popular.
full djassskotið fyrir minn smekk. gæti vaxið á við aðra hlustun. fær því 3,5.
Beter dan de vorige iig
Adequate
This is a great example of an 'album's album' - every song flows together so incredibly well which makes it the whole a complete, perfectly rounded album. The production, the sound of the album is top notch, it was ahead of the time which doesn't sound too mid 1980s but rather later from the decade/early 90s. The songs are very British with lot of Beatles/early Genesis influences which I also like a lot. The album's length is pefection (not too long, not too short). I'd give it a 4.5 overall but the production is too mindblowing not to give it a 5.
Je vais commencer par une confession, XTC, pour moi, c'était une vieille connaissance un peu reloue. Je les avais croisés à la fin des années 80, avec des albums comme "Black Sea" ou "The Big Express". De mémoire, ça m'avait laissé un souvenir de pop anglaise un peu trop intello, un peu trop alambiquée, un peu trop... pas assez The Cure, en somme. Alors, pendant des lustres, j'ai soigneusement évité le sujet. J'ai rangé XTC dans la case "groupes surestimés par la presse" et je suis passé à autre chose. Et quelle putain d'erreur monumentale, quelle négligence coupable. Car en 1986, pendant que je devais probablement m'extasier sur le dernier album de The The, ces types d'Andover accouchaient d'un chef-d'oeuvre absolu, un disque d'une beauté et d'une ambition folles, "Skylarking". Un album conceptuel sur le cycle des saisons, de la vie, de l'amour, de la mort. Le genre de projet casse-gueule qui peut vite tourner au ridicule. L'histoire de sa création est déjà une saga en soi. Le groupe est envoyé à Woodstock, non pas pour un festival, mais pour s'enfermer dans une cabane avec le producteur Todd Rundgren, un autre génie au caractère bien trempé. L'accouchement se fait dans la douleur. Le leader Andy Partridge et Rundgren ne peuvent pas se supporter, ils se battent sur chaque arrangement, sur chaque note. Le chaos créatif. Et de ce conflit, de cette tension, naît un album d'une sérénité, d'une beauté pastorale absolument renversante. C'est le paradoxe des grands disques : la musique la plus apaisée naît souvent de la plus grande des guerres. Dès les premières secondes de "Summer's Cauldron", on est happé. Le son des grillons, la chaleur moite d'un été qui s'installe... C'est plus qu'une chanson, c'est une sensation. Le disque est un écrin de pop baroque, psychédélique et luxuriante. On pense aux Beatles de "Revolver", aux Beach Boys de "Pet Sounds". L'obsession de XTC, et surtout de Partridge, a toujours été de composer l'album pop ultime des années 80, celui qui pourrait se mesurer sans honte aux chefs-d'oeuvre des sixties. Avec "Skylarking", mission accomplie, haut la main. Chaque morceau est une merveille de composition. L'enchaînement "Summer's Cauldron" et "Grass" est d'une fluidité parfaite, deux odes à la nature et aux plaisirs simples, avec une ambiance psychédélique et relaxante qui vous transporte. Puis vient la pluie, la mélancolie, avec le diptyque "Ballet For A Rainy Day / 1000 Umbrellas". Les arrangements de cordes sont à pleurer de beauté, la solitude liée aux chagrins d'amour n'a jamais été aussi bien décrite. On sent l'humidité, on sent le coeur qui se serre. Et puis, il y a "Dear God", le coup de grâce. Cette chanson, initialement une simple face B, est devenue un tube underground aux États-Unis, forçant la maison de disques à la rajouter sur l'album. C'est peut-être, la meilleure chanson jamais écrite sur l'athéisme. Une lettre ouverte à un Dieu dont l'existence est mise en doute avec une colère froide et une logique implacable. C'est d'une audace et d'une force incroyables, surtout pour l'époque. "Skylarking" est le sommet d'un groupe fascinant, ambitieux, et, il faut bien le dire, trop souvent méconnu du grand public. C'est un disque qui ne cherche pas à être à la mode, qui existe dans sa propre bulle temporelle. C'est de la pop pour adultes, intelligente mais jamais pédante, complexe mais toujours accessible. C'est un album qui se révèle un peu plus à chaque écoute, un disque à emporter sur une île déserte pour y découvrir de nouveaux détails pendant des années. Alors oui, ce sera un gros 4 sur 5. Pourquoi pas la note parfaite ? Peut-être parce que mon coeur de vieux con aigri a encore un peu de mal à s'abandonner totalement à tant de perfection pop. Peut-être parce qu'il me manque ce petit grain de folie, cette petite once de danger que j'aime tant. Mais ne vous y trompez pas, c'est une note qui frôle l'excellence, c'est un disque indispensable, une perle rare qui prouve que les années 80 n'ont pas été qu'une décennie de synthés en plastique et de coiffures improbables. C'était aussi une décennie de chefs-d'oeuvre discrets et "Skylarking" en est le plus bel exemple. Si, comme moi, vous êtes passé à côté, je vous en conjure : réparez votre erreur.
Better than the other one from them.
Is alright
Liked it especially the first couple of tracks and the last one where it sounds like a kid singing the intro
Quite boring
Very ok. It had some decent moments and songs. I guess it's a 3. It's just so very unremarkable
Really good. They have better albums though.
Good stuff
Did not enjoy this album. Kinda found it like squeeze but without the humour.
Not for me. 1/5
HM! XTC...never heard of this or at least I don't think so...I don't really understand concept albums. I don't think I ever really even knew about the term until I started doing this. Or maybe when John told me about that Frank Zappa album. Trying to think who this reminds of. Kind of has some Police vibes? no not The Police..Talking Heads? It'll come to me. Duran Duran! That's who he sounds like! I don't know I didn't hate it but it's not AMAZING. 3 stars. The Man Who Sailed His Soul caught my ear. It's got a cool Jazzy tune to it. I would probably replay this track again sometime. OH! So they saved the best for last. Dear God. I have heard this before!
Not my thing but not too terrible
Maybe 2.5, I can see why people like this but it did nothing for me
Dear God really goes for it.
Noooope
An album packed with great interesting pop tunes. Heard it once before but definitely got more out of it on my 2nd listen here. Good range to it, doesn't stick to the same idea which keeps it fun.
Favourite tracks: dear god; grass; the meeting place; that's super, Supergirl
Feel like a high degree of difficulty and I liked it more and more as it went on. Ultimately not something I d likely need to listen to again.
Blind album and artist. Was a little underwhelmed throughout until that final track which i thought was really good.
Interesting album, I enjoyed the variety but overall the quality was a bit inconsistent.
I really want to like XTC and the production and lyrics are great but it does come across a bit twee.
This album was very intriguing to me. It started off as a pretty standard sounding 80s new wave record - nothing wrong with that. Then I started noticing some Indian or perhaps African style percussion instrumentation thrown in as well which was a surprise. Somehow it kinda worked! Then about halfway through the album the sound shifts to a very Beatles-sounding album akin to "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." A wide net of influences on one record can sometimes be jarring, but in a way it worked for XTC on this record. I was interested throughout - overall a good album! Notable Tracks: - The Meeting Place - That's Really Super, Supergirl - Ballet For A Rainy Day - Season Cycle - Dear God - biggest hit on the album 6/10
Very 80s. Couple of great tracks at the end but mired in garbage.
That shit was weird.
Had a few songs I thought were cool, but overall I didn't find this particularly interesting
Don't need to listen to this one. Definitely enough 60s music with chord changes going nowhere to cover all the bases already on the list. music: hated. (⌐■_■)
I like these guys. This one was less (a bit less) gooby than the last, and the Todd Lundgren mixing error lore is real interesting. Would like to hear that original mix. Like the last one, we’re riding the line of being too Preciously English here, but something about XTC makes it work to my ear. Quickly becoming One Of My Bands.
Better than I expected, but I would still put it in the "comfortable background music" category.
Hidden gem. Wonderful album. If you enjoyed listening to this album I really recommend you the video essay done by Trash Theory on XTC (available on YouTube, I didn't get paid for this mention, I just think this video elevates the experience of this particular record).
I really hated this.
Musically, perfect. Lyrically it struggles more than it should. Dear God is a very weak track, even as an atheist. However, 1000 Umbrellas, Earn Enough for Us, are some of their best work.
Interesting album. Not bad.
The sound is for the most part a pleasantly chill and experimental synth-pop, with some throwbacks to OG Merseybeat and singer-songwriter folk. The lyrics are generally delightfully unserious but occasionally cringy. Overall, this album basically achieves a similar effect to what some artists were trying to do in the 2000s where they used a variety of instruments and mixed alternative, folk, and their own artistic spin (sorry, I don't remember specific names off the top of my head). And then there is the last track, "Dear God", where the lyrics summarize the fundamental arguments against religion in a beautiful poetic form. The sound also changes accordingly; it is a straightforward guitar-based rock tune, with only the incorporation of a playful violin bit as a reminder that this song was made by the same band as the whimsical rest of the album.
Like when you've had too many treats and nothing after that is satisfying but you're bored and there's still tons of desserts and candy to sitting out that will go bad in a few hours and you can't waste it and you just have to keep eating and keep telling yourself you feel good, but you haven't felt good for a while but you have to eat all of this right now or be killed but you're not willing to admit to yourself that death would be an improvement from this point.
Skylarking by XTC showcases the band's versatility and musical evolution. Feeling rather Beatles-esque in style, it diverges significantly from their earlier post-punk work, such as the hit Making Plans for Nigel. The album is rich with lush, melodic arrangements and intricate production, thanks in large part to producer Todd Rundgren. Dear God stands out as an exceptional track, with its provocative lyrics and compelling composition. While the rest of the album may not reach the same heights, it still contains several noteworthy songs. Tracks like Grass and The Meeting Place offer a pleasant listening experience with their whimsical and pastoral vibes. Skylarking is a commendable effort that highlights XTC's ability to reinvent themselves while maintaining their unique charm. NUMBER OF BANGERS - 4 STAND OUT TRACK - Dear God
Certainly a bit too British for my tastes but the overall experience was a net positive. I love the playfulness of a lot of the songs and how experimental they get with a few different styles. It also gets bonus points for coming out in '86 and not sucking penis, so good job XTC. Favorites are Another Satellite, Grass, and Dear God
The first half of this flows really well together and is a bunch of super catchy pop songs. The second half, while not being as good still has highlights. Favorites were Grass, That’s Really Super Supergirl, 1000 Umbrellas, Season Cycle, and Dear God.
Maybe the most 80s album I have ever heard. Parts are catchy while some parts are cluttered and chaotic. I didn't hate it but I didn’t love it. 6/10
Pretty nice, never heard then before
Great opener, and the rest just keep passing the high bar. The cover of the pipers maybe at the gates of dawn hints at the orchestral and muted psychedelia that is to follow. The season cycle could be the theme song of the album. The light, casual breeziness hides the technical precision. One of their best.
I had forgot about this one. Still super enjoyable, and difficult to pigeonhole.
I can understand why XTC left Dear God off the first print of this album. However, I am truly thankful that it was reinstated. What a phenomenal song and deserves five all on its own. Every time I’ve listened to XTC on this project I have been surprised and excited that they are so much better than I remember. I can still hear the English whimsy but these songs are real growers. I was happy to play again and again and then I just stuck Dear God on repeat. That never grows old - the nuance, the beauty, the existential crisis. Still so resonant. And delivered with such heart.
I loved this. Another band of whose I owned one album but am mostly unfamiliar with the rest of the catalog. That said, a lot of this was familiar — and it reminded me of so many artists as it played. I was struck that this was reminiscent of the Beach Boys in a more adult way, and I really liked that (strange, considering I'm not super fond of the Beach Boys). Anyway, smart, understated pop. Great stuff.
Melodic bliss. I played the hell out of this album in college and then put it away for some unknown reason. So glad to revisit it today. Side two isn't quite as strong as one, but it's still pretty damn great. Nice production from Todd Rundgren. All-around a stellar effort.