Reviews (page 6 of 8)
Inoffensive 80s pop/rock. Nothing really stands out but wasn't desperate for it to end. Not in the right mood for it but probably won't listen again.
More like a 3.5 since the album sort of falls off after Earn Enough For Us
Sa sonne comme un centre d’achat
Sleepy daydream album - not really my cup of tea. The outlier was "Dear God" which is a much heavier track than the rest of the album. Musically solid, probably will only listen to "Dear God" again.
Cool
ganske chill, men ikke noen woaw faktor
Dit vind ik tof! Fijne eighties vibe en goeie songs
Some nice sounds. Pedestrian lyrics.
Ihan jepa!
The parts that weren't your generic 80's pop music were pretty cool!
Meh
enjoyed a lot of this, but also some was difficult for me… standout- summer’s cauldron
Some lovely and interesting compositions paired with rightly-lauded production. Varied, arguably progressive. Album opens with a two-part in Summer's Cauldron/Grass that feels as warm as that season's sun, complete with some birdsong. I'd describe it as baroque pop. The album closes with a run of varied tunes on introspection that sound a bit more like pop jazz (The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul), a modern composition of English trad folk (albeit with 1986 production - Sacrificial Bonfire) and a 60s folks protest song written to God instead of the government (Dear God). It's an effective album, and I can hear its influences now. Having said that, it remains somewhat ephemeral -- perhaps just a little bloated in the middle. Unlikely to get another full listen, but I'm glad I visited Skylarking.
Reminds me of a knock off of the Beatles at times. Makes me tired. Not my thing.
Weird
At its best, this album is reminiscent of a late stage Kinks record; at its worst, it sort of forgets what it is in its attempt to be whimsical and weird. Overall a fun listen with some catchy pop rock hooks that sound outside the new wave format.
If only this was a best of XTC album, I could probably give them a 4 or 5. They have some songs that I really love (many not on this album and from a bunch of different albums) but they're so all over the place. Their lyrics are usually very good, and this album is no different. In some ways I wish someone else got ahold of them and added different music to back up the vocals or changed the melodies altogether. Take That's Really Super Supergirl. So cheeky and clever, and so ahead of it's time (I think a lot of 90's rock had the song's sardonic MO) but the tempo and the instrumentation is just a bit off. It could really kick ass if remade with a different sound. Other songs, like Summer's Cauldron sound cool at times and then off other times - just as I'm getting into it I find myself saying why'd you do that/make it sound that way? They can do it (harmonize) because they have some nice segues from song to song (Summer's Cauldron to Grass, Ballet for a Rainy Day to 1000 Umbrellas), they're just inconsistent. Dear God is the one song that they really nail - the lyrics are both cheeky (I pray you can make it better down here, I don't mean a big reduction in the price of beer) and incredibly deep (did you make mankind after we made you? and the devil too?) and the musical accompaniment is so on point. Earn Enough for Us is another song where they seem to better match up vocals and music. All in all, like their whole catalogue, this album is an admirable but even collection of songs.
Album #8 This the first album/artist for which I have zero expectations. First impressions is that it sounds like 80s British music, but there's an odd, almost psychedelic and world fusion aspect to it. The sound is pretty airy with interesting samples of birds, clocks(?), horse trots and other sounds. Synthesized percussion as well. Pretty neat. Not my deal, but I can see the appeal. As the album goes on, it starts to feel more like rock album with clearer guitar, bass, and drum. The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul is pretty cool with its flute, horns, surf guitar and jazz groove. My favorite on the album.. Dear God is quite intense and almost doesn't fit the rest of the album. Seems like an atheist anthem. Despite the subject matter, it's quite good and powerful. I started with 2.5* but bumped it to 3*.
Not really for me but ok
BL: Never heard of XTC, interested to hear, like the album cover although it is incredibly 80s AL: I liked this. A very solid record. I did feel I would maybe appreciate it more on a repeat listen however the first time around it was very solid. FT: “Summer’s Cauldron”, “Season Cycle”, “Dear God” 3/5
J'ai toujours pensé que jouer de la flûte tout nu n'était pas un concept d'album assez fort pour se lancer dans une telle entreprise et je crois que ça s'est vérifié ici.
Decent album with a great closing track. Its a little stodgy, and not to my personal taste. 3/5
I'm doing dull repetitive stuff for work right now... this album got put on. I've not yawned this much in hours.
Een beetje een meh album. Er staat 1 nummer op wat me aan Blur doet denken, de rest is vergeetbaar. Maar niet heel vervelend.
Interesting as a concept album, but I just hate his voice. Sorry.
Chill och cool musik men idk inte helt min grej
Whimsical, 80s synth pop. Not really really it.
3.5/5. So I suppose this is proto-Britpop.
Lightweight sound, drenched with 80s feeling. Inoffensive but a bit boring
As with the 10cc album I got the main first impression I had was wow, Field Music owe a lot to these. Only knew Making Plans For Nigel by them. Stuck this on in the car in a rush to get to Stockport before the parts place closed, so I couldn't really hear it or concentrate on it much. Came back several weeks later, having heard Grass, excellent, lots of times slotted in between other stuff. I still drift away again for a few tracks after that high point but find 1000 Umbrellas catches my attention again, what a great song. Then I drift off again. I feel like I should be loving this more than I am. It's good, no doubt.
Kind of Genesis-y. I'd heard of XTC before and this is absolutely not what I was expecting. I enjoy being surprised. But also it wasn't that impressive.
An interesting album that I don't think is really my sound. Nonetheless, standouts lie in Summers Cauldron, Season Cycle, and Dear God.
Idk I generally like XTC and was actually thinking about listening to this one a few days ago, but it just doesn't click with me. There are some pretty instrumental passages here and there, but largely I just found a lot of the music itself more boring than anything. 2.5/5
I mean I have been really looking forward to see what this album was actually like for a while but honestly dear god is by far the best song and then it’s average 3/5
This is definitely one of the more unique albums I've listened to thus far. I was kind of ambivalent about it, though. I think I'll listen to it again as I had a hard time wrapping my brain around it the first time as I was somewhat distracted during the first listen through.
this is not the best xtc album and has adult contemp vibes at times. though i will say it has some interesting instrumentation and when it goes sparse it is electric, buzz buzz. they are more experimental with style and timing than most bands ie. insect sounds, combining rock with traditional folk styles, paired back instrumentation and pauses. i like xtc, but i would have picked a different album. still suffices.
banco igual mid 7/10
6,5/10
This was a surprise. After dreading yet another British 80s band, the first half of this album really roped me in. Excellent tunes and flow. Bit of a drop off though.
Jackson Pollock: Cant be fucked, sounds fine. Best: Worst: Overall:
I don’t know what I expected but this wasn’t it. I quite enjoyed the album enough to give it a 3*
Yeah it was fine.
I don't know. It has it's good moments, just not enough to get 4. Unfortunately as whole it does not sound very interesting
Very eclectic, over the course of the album I thought parts sounded like blur, madness, the Beatles, jazz and other stuff I've already forgotten. Really interesting for one listen but not sure it would grow on me.
Would I listen again? Probably not. Did I enjoy listening once? Absolutely. Creative and great use of layered, orchestral sound. Amazing flow across the album and some really enjoyable tracks. Favorite by far was The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul. Also good: That's Really Super, Supergirl; Ballet for a Rainy Day; Season Cycle.
Empieza bien. Pero por el medio se enrolla un poco. 3
English rock alright
I like the instrumentals in this album. The lyrics and singing style are kind of corny though. I normally love 80's cheese, but this was too much.
I thought I would need to give this another listen after the weekend but I don't want to haha! This was ok and I'd like to listen to something else from XTC maybe but this did not excite me. I can't remember anything standing out about this album and I cba to listen again - says it all.
I quite enjoyed this! Not as much as plans for Nigel era perhaps. Some were a little too jaunty and reminded me of Elvis Costello but on the whole I thought it was good
Yeah I liked this. Some bits were much better than others and there were a few duff ones but a pleasant listen.
Not a big grabber on this one for me, but I do love this vibe. It was fine background that deserves a closer listen.
Interesting, interesting. Not really familiar with this band. I liked some (the umbrellas tune), and disliked others. ("the man who sailed around his soul") Surprised by others - was that a kid singing the opening of "Dear God"? I hear stuff like this album and think: this is VERY British. But even I don't really know what that means. Sorry, Alex!
Just not too much into the 80s sound these days. This album had a nice relaxing feel though. I like the crickets chirping.
I mean, this is OK. I don't really have an opinion on it. 100% neutral. What is it that makes a man neutral, Kiff?
The individual songs are pretty and move along sprightly one to another making the album quite pleasant to listen to in its entirety, even if lyrically it is pretty grim. But ultimately there's nothing to really sink your teeth into. Most of the songs are in one ear and out the other, like the inane but (weirdly) cheerful That's Really Super, Supergirl. Grass is a lovely song and I can still remember something about it by the end of the album. I have always liked Dear God, so extra star for that. Not sure there's enough here to be top 1001 but I certainly don't hate it. 2.5
This is a fun, bright album. It has that little sour flavor that comes with all British music. Nothing really grabbed me or offended me.
What a strange album. Exists in some weird space between pop and rock with some orchestral elements thrown in. Not really sure what I listened to there. Standouts: Summer's Cauldron, The Meeting Place, Earn Enough For Us, Sacrificial Bonfire, Dear God
I thought that this album was interesting and conceptual with no boring parts. It wasn’t really my type of music, I have no complaints but it’s just something that I don’t love. I understand why people would listen to this- I would listen again but wouldn’t go out of my way to.
I’m confused
Dear God och Grass sticker ut. Haft den förstnämnda som tolvtummare.
Last one was the best
3.75
Lekker jaren '80. Het luistert allemaal wel prima weg, maar er is niets wat er uitspringt.
80s
Some tunes on here but feels 10-15 mins too long
I always liked XTC, but I didn't love them. I like this album well enough.
I think “Dear God” is an important song, and sure, hear it before dying. But if you’re going to hear one XTC album, I don’t know that this is the one.
Really struggled to decide which way to rate this album. Some really interesting and creative sounds, definitely unique but at the same time it felt a bit 2-dimensional and not something I'm in a huge rush to listen to again.
Started off fantastic, loved the first few songs, trickled off in quality down the stretch, but ended pretty good. 3.5/5
Meh, not my style. I liked the second half better.
Like XTC but this wasn't the best collection of their songs.
Highlights: That's Really Super, Supergirl, 1000 Umbrellas, Earn Enough for Us.
pretty catchy, but the lyrics did get on my nerves. 6/10
Fine I just don't think I like the instrumentation/production which I recognize was of its time and seminal.
Nothing really grabbed me but it wasn’t terrible either. I really have nothing to say about this one
It’s fine
A breezy 1960s-esque quasi-psychedelic soft rock record. Pleasant and enjoyable with nice harmonies and interesting instrumentation. Tailed off a bit towards the end. I thought the band name sounded like a mobile phone until I said it out loud. Now I get it. Rating: 3.5/5 Playlist track: Grass Date listened: 27/10/22
Stylish but the only read stand out for me was Dear God
Interesting listen. I'd heard the name of the band before but wasn't familiar with their music. It was interesting, pretty inoffensive stuff. Could be put on the background and let it fade. Nothing really stood out for me. Perfectly bland middle ground.
First listen. Never heard of them. Decent British stuff.
Pop treballat però afable, d'estiu crepuscular. No hi ha temes que destaquin molt per sobre dels altres, però és un treball elegant, sofisticat i d'escolta agradable. El treball de producció de Rundgren es deixa notar i és un disc d'aquells que millora a cada escolta
Expectations are a b. I knew Dear God and love the song. Knew nothing else about the band. Was expecting an angry punky gen x brit vibe and the album was a lot more like Sgt Peppers in the park on a Sunday. It was light and fun and the music was good. Wish the whole album had a Dear God vibe to it though.
Dear God is a beautiful ambitious song - hard to believe that they almost left it off! And the rest of the album is not too bad. Definitely original
Great XTC songs are true gems to be admired, but there is a quality to most of their music that is best described as "circus-like" which I cannot stand. Both are present in this record.
An odd'un. I enjoyed every minute of this album as it went past, but simultaneously don't remember much of it now it's passed. I love the idea of a song cycle as life span, and I *think* they succeeded here, but equally I can't remember if they did... It's mostly just nice, rather than mind blowing. But I can live with nice. Going to come back to it and see if it grows.
Like, don't love
A few enjoyable songs
Such mixed feelings. The album flows incredibly well but the album is kind of a mess. Then again, it is skylarking.
Weird but good
I swear I tried to like this but I find XTC one of those impossible bands that most of my friends love that I just don't get.
Not bad, but quite an "easy to forget" album. At least it ends with an absolute banger.
Some ok parts but nothing to write home about.
I find XTC weird...I didn't dislike anything, but I also just find everything a bit off-kilter in a funny way. I dunno.
3.4 - decent album. Good melodies and interesting transition from the beginning to the end. Really enjoyed the final track, “Dear God”.
Not unpleasant, but forgettable.
I can appreciate what their going for, but it's not my thing. A bit too poppy.
A few bops. Real fuckin 80s tho
It’s interesting, the many directions that the ‘new wave’ bands of the 70s wandered off in. This has a psychedelic, sixties, almost orchestral pop feel, with hints of the Beatles (especially Ballad for a Rainy Day followed by 100 Umbrellas). Dear God is a great song and I especially like bringing in a guest vocalist. It was the only song that caught my attention on the first lesson, but everything’s better second time around.
The jazz elements of the album stopped me giving it a 4 star.
Es interesante
I hadn’t listened to this group before. It’s a happy sounding album, even when the songs deal with misery, breakups and death. The lyrics are rambly and witty, with an interesting 60s-meets-the-80s feel to it all. The song I really liked I learned was left off of the original release and hastily re-added after its success as a B-side in the US, “Dear God.” Ironic because this is the song I see myself revisiting from this album. There were a variety of instruments and arrangements, but struck me with a sameness that felt less interesting to me than it should have. I couldn’t help but feel underwhelmed.
Dear God was a great story telling song! Also liked Sacrificial 🔥 Bonfire. Very interesting album, each song was different than the last one. Never heard of this band but found it intriguing to listen to. Super, Supergirl!!
This album was listed as alternative but it feels more like something you'd hear at some 80's dive bar or night club. Very interesting and quirky, like many of the others that have been popping up. I wouldn't consider this worthy of this list but it was enjoyable.
This reminds of that Prefab Sprout album, minus the emotional elevation that made it feel so triumphant. Yet another '80s britpop album on the list. Obviously I enjoy it to a certain degree, but it also becomes harder and harder for these to stand out. A few tracks on here I dug, even though the rest of it felt pretty bland. Hard to say what would have made this better, but it's still pretty good. Favorite tracks: Dear God, The Main Who Sailed Around His Soul, Big Day, That's Really Super Supergirl. Album art: Really like the colors on this one. The texturing is cool too. 3.5/5
Talking Heads vibes? I think? Or maybe I'm confusing with Flaming Lips? Either way, pretty fun and upbeat but not my usual style. 3.5
Sei não...
Never knew I knew any of these - quite enjoyed
Varied and energetic - I thought it might be along the Morrissey line, but it ended up being a bit more interesting in my mind.
Clever
This seems like a pretty accomplished and interesting album... but it's not really doing it for me. The lyrics are fascinating, the arrangements are fun, I like the singer's voice but overall it's not really my jam. I can't imagine ever listening to this for fun, or in fact, ever again...
alright. quite liked and then started to dislike it.
I enjoyed the listen, but I don't think I am going to revisit the album or the artist again.
Cest pas pire, mais pas plus. 3.15
Solid
Another easy listen that was very enjoyable
This album had some major hits and major misses, much like the entire 80s musical genre. Season Cycle gave me major Beach Boys vibes which I loved. 10000 Umbrellas had me confused. I would listen to a few of these tracks again but not the entire album.
Not bad
I'm not sure about this one at all really. I think I enjoyed it? Maybe? But also maybe not. Cool sounds but didn't love it.
It's pretty funny that right after a '60s influenced album from the '80s, I got another '60s influenced album from the '80s. But while I hated The La's self-titled album, this one is pretty good (note: The La's self-titled was released in 1990, but recorded in the '80s). It's another pop-rock album, with influences from the '60s psychedelic rock acts, Pink Floyd, Beatles, and most notably, The Beach Boys. As far as I can hear, this is most likely a Beach Boys-esque album. But that doesn't mean that the album only copied the styles and sound of other bands. It's has an entirely new sound. And that alone impressed me. I would love to enjoy this album, but unfortunately, '60s sounding pop-rock vibes are probably not my thing. But I can see why it is included in the list. The production and the instrumentals are all interesting, and it has a few personal highlights, particularly the fun first five tracks, the slightly trippy "The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul", and the originally unreleased and unsurprisingly controversial "Dear God".
Interesting album. Didn't love most of it, but had a couple really cool tracks ("Dear God").
Solid production but didn't take my breath.
Ganz cooles Album, aber schon crazy
Nicht schlecht aber auch kein wirklicher burner
I liked it, but its not for me... right now
I liked the way it started off. I got kinda bored towards the middle of the album as some of the songs felt samery, but it picked up again pretty hard near the end. I just didn't really enjoy the main singer's voice, and I thought it brought it down. I really really liked the instruments and sound that they had. Plus the album had a nice vibey energy to it. Overall though, I thought it was a decent album. Favorite track: The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul
I'll always enjoy some XTC, even if I discovered them in reverse via Shriekback and still think I prefer the latter group. There aren't too many standout moments here, with the exception of some of the melodic lines in Earn Enough for Us. It's a tad overstuffed, reminding me of Out of the Blue nine years earlier. However, the genre influences here suit better. In an alternate variety, it's XTC instead of Lennon that draws pointless ire.
Pleasant but alright
Some stand out hits like "Dear God" and "That's Really Super, Super-Girl", but the rest lyrically and vocally wasn't there for me. Some cool instrumentation though
2.7 Enjoyed it being in the background. But it wont earn a spot in the my memory as something I should listen to again. The last song I've played countless times without tying it to an artist.
I liked it, some interesting tracks and styles.
Probably my favorite XTC record. Quirky. 7/10
I dig how psychedelic this can get, but I don't love it. S'okay.
need to listen again
Extremely well produced alt-pop record here - I went reading into it on wikipedia and the story behind the production here and the relationship between band and producer is really fascinating, would highly recommend. The album is pretty good, with a few catchy tunes - but it's not really my thing.
New wavey and very British. It’s okay.
Pretty good, funny lyrics, listenable
New wave/prog crossover, pretty cool but kinda drags
Meh.
Enjoyable listen throughout, but not sure I would return too often
Interesting but nothing special
3. it's fine, pleasant enough. ends on one of their big songs which gives it a bit of a nice send off.
I quite enjoyed this. It reminded me of things I used to listen to in the early 2000s. Like Eels etc
Nice soft rock, interesting church sounds in some songs.
Ok
Very English in a Kinks/Beatles style. Listenable. Interesting to read about writing, production and release issues.
Not sure where this sits, some OK ideas but neither prog nor indie
This seems like an album that would need multiple listens to appreciate. On first listen it's alright but nothing special, despite the glowing critic reviews
I started off skeptical, not really interested, but as it continued I really got into some of it. Synthy and experimental. Another Satellite was catchy
80s bratty jangles
not a super memorable album. Starts off strong, but then bubbles into forgetfulness. British 80s new wave stuff.
"Super, Supergirl How you stopped the universe from dying But you're never going to stop me crying" (That's really Super, Supergirl) La verdad es que un poco meh, me da la impresión de ya haber escuchado este disco 20 veces entre los 1001 mejores.
Dudo que hay algo mejor del género early alternative.
un po' impersonale ma ascoltabile
it was pretty good
Está agradable pero no podría decir que me gusta. Lo que más me molesta es que ya llevo muchos tibios treses ultimamente. Sube a momentos arriba del 4 y luego cae a 1 o 2.
The Wikipedia page for this album compares it to both "Smile" and "Abbey Road." It's not nearly that interesting. My opinion of it improved after a second listen, but not appreciably so. Best track: Sacrificial Bonfire
Rock, 1986 -> 2
So many of these bands are led by a man who nobody is brave to tell they can’t be the singer because they’re not good enough. A bit like Tears For Fears but not good.
What a waste of an amazing band name. Wouldn't this be better served as being put on the best indie singles list? Because the rest of the album is garbage
At times during this album you're like wow this is a 5/5 album. Other times you're like wow this is a 0/5 album. The duality of Man. Highlight: Ballet For A Rainy Day
I was a huge fan of Apple Venus, but this one didn’t feel as impactful. Apple Venus felt both innovative and cunning, this record feels a bit more twee and a few stepping stones away. Mostly just a product of time, AV was released a dozen years after Skylarking. This felt a little more like typical new wave and art rock merged their mediocre bits to get a mediocre result. “Ballet For A Rainy Day” sounded like They Might Be Giants snuck back in time a bit to speak through XTC. Speaking of which, it makes sense that “Dear God” was a college radio success, this whole album has a college radio sound. 2/5 unnecessary
dear god is a great song but this rest of this is nothing
This is just bland, mid, 80s pop-pap. Just nothing to it.
Sloggy
Dear lord, will someone please make this stop?
2/5 - I've always thought I should like XTC more than I do. There's something just too precious with them that hasn't aged well for me. Dear God is a good song, but that's about all I have to say here.
This feels like a cross between the Beatles, Depeche Mode and maybe Beach Boys or Grateful Dead. I'd listen to any of those bands before this album. The only saving grace imo is Dear God but even then I love Sarah McLaughlins cover version 1k more.
Grateful for the song/lyrics that produced Dear God so Sarah McLachlan could cover it later. I had such trouble with this album. It was produced in the 80s, lyrics sounded like they were from the 60/70s, and what feels music meant to be just instrumental. Individual elements? Ok. Together? Meh.
This album paved the way for Sarah McLachlan's cover of Dear God, so it gets a star for that. Otherwise, this is a 80's produced album with 60s/70s lyrics and music that I would have enjoyed more as solely instrumental. Together it all felt disjointed.
Entirely unremarkable. The annoying parts of better bands, without any of the charm or skill.
War erst kein überhaupt kein Fan, vom Großteils des Albums bin ichs auch immernoch nicht. Der letzte Song, Dear God, slappt aber ziemlich brutal! Das kam unerwartet. Alles in allem 2.41 Sterne.
Meget beige.
Dear God I liked, the rest, what's this album doing on this list.
1.5
It verges on being more British new wave rock slop but there are enough interesting thing happening to keep one engaged.
I don't know what this album is going on about but I sort of enjoy its innocent confusion and how it erratically changes my moods. Was gonna give it a 3 but then remembered this fucker might have bumped Blink 182 off the list so bitterly rating it a 2.
Dear God is a classic, but the rest of this album is boring.
Ehhhh
I really didn't like Apple Venus Vol. 1, but was looking forward to this one because I had a few friends really hyping it up. But yeah, it's just not for me. I will say better than Apple Venus. 1000 Umbrellas and The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul are decent enough. I can do experimental music. I can do happy music. Happy experimental music though I can't do. Because it always sounds like music for children or something to me. Like it belongs in some sort of kids show or movie. I don't know why it sounds like that to me, but it does. So yeah. Didn't really like it. Better than Apple Venus, but not enough to get more than a 2.
p558. 1986. 2 stars. Limp 60s pastiche that is far too knowing and clever for its own good. No standout songs on it either. There are good reasons it was ignored when it came out.
Dit album bewijst voor mij weer hoe persoonlijk muzieksmaak is. Ik vond het een leuk album, zat goed in elkaar, maar de stem van de zanger... het lukt me niet om daar aan te wennen en het mooi te vinden. Geen match voor mij.
The title Skylarking might lead you to believe this was a reggae album rather than the 80s synth pop that it is. I think i'd have preferred some reggae, this really just didn't land with me at all musically making me sound nearly as depressing as the singer sounded most of the time.
XTC can change up a song in the middle. That didn’t happen enough on this album. Dear God is the real standout.
Weird having "Dear God" added on here, it wasn't on the original release. Feel about the same now as when this dropped, its ok but the whimsy is mostly lost on me, I'd rather just have better songs.
I dunno man
New wave. Talking Heads/Duran Duran vibes (heavier on the former). Not loving so far.
oh nice well Started nice, ended less nice ::)
An artist I’ve shocked got one entry yet alone two???? Very nothing but 80’s. Much like their album 13 years later
What in the pretentious rubbish is this? I guess this album meets "fooling around" because it clearly fooled Robert Dimery into putting it and his other album on this list. His voice is so annoying, and like plastic, this album features the most annoying parts of 80s music. It's overly produced, a bit safe and very boring.
4/10 Didn't really care for this but a full extra point for "Dear God" being apart of IT (2017)
Boooo 2/5
I dunno. Sounds like if Barenaked Ladies were British and also heavily influenced by The Beatles. I understand XTC comes before B-Naked Ls, I'm just saying that's kinda what they.....whatever. Like, I don't hate it but it does bug me. I don't really want to listen to it.
Dreadful
Flirted with “fuck these dorks” territory but not need up being catchy enough to save it.
1.9 Im knocking off a half point because I thought I had a bird stuck in the grill of my car while I was driving, listening to Summers Cauldron. It should be illegal to sample animal sounds and police sirens in a song,
#989. This is a big bowl of nothing. The only one that's even mildly interesting really is this pretty cringe edgelord anti-religion song, the rest is bland as shit. 2/5: weak
This is a very boring yet inoffensive record. I’ve forgotten it already.
I appreciate on one hand that they've made a record influenced by 60s psychedelia, a genre which yields the occasional gem, but on the other hand, it didn't grab me and I can't remember a single track. Won't return to it
This was not good at all. A poor example of not a great era in music.
the music is really cool, but it’s such a same the vocalist has that voice. listened to a couple tracks without vocals and it’s much better
it's alright, a bit forgettable
I will carry on the trend of meeting this album with indifference.
A few of the earlier songs were ok and interesting but did not enjoy overall.
Forgettable concept album.
extremely mid
Something very every day British. If Squeeze were dulled by merging with Spandau Ballet this would be it. Coronation St & Only Fools in music. Dear God is the nearest to a stand out & would have been better if they’d just kept to the opening / closing vocalist. Unfortunately other than that I couldn’t really recall a single track.
Damn, is this garbage ever hot. The plans for Nigel clearly fell through.
Yeah nothing special. Infeel this band is very overrated
Dear God is a cool song but the rest is just mediocre for me.
Really unremarkable.
Dit is voor mij heel erg van die aanstellerige muziek van die ene guy die zichzelf zoveel beter vind dan iedereen en daarom muziek maakt die wij gewone mensen "Toch niet begrijpen". Want dat dit moeilijk is om te spelen, dat geloof ik meteen. Maar is het dan goed? En ook heb ik gewoon een beetje het idee alsof dit muziek is die andere artiesten al gedaan hebben, en vaak ook beter. Heb dit echt geprobeerd, en buiten The Man who sailed around his soul heb ik me eigenlijk vooral zitten vervelen. Dit is nogal filmische muziek, gemaakt voor en door mensen die vast een stuk intelligenter zijn dan dat ik ben. Althans wel op het gebied van muziektheorie, wat natuurlijk helemaal prima is, maar wel een beetje jammer dat ik zo sterk het idee krijg dat ze het me continue in mn gezicht moeten wrijven. Dit is denk ik de minste ervaring die ik ooit met XTC gehad heb. In elk geval heb ik me nog nooit zo verveeld als deze keer... FAVO: The man who sailed around his soul
не знаю вроде норм но чет не зацепило
1.67
I was annoyed to get this (because didn’t I just get an XTC album?) and now I’m even more annoyed because I’m really enjoying it so far. …and then I got to the last song. I fucking hate this song.
"Dear God" saved the day...
what if we would try to be eclectic like queen, but fail miserably. +1 star for dear god
Couldn’t ever get into it, which is a shame because it has a lot of the things I’m into. Back to making plans for Nigel, for me. RYM: Y (#835) Saved a song: N
Kinda meh, it's all over the place (Also, who tf starts an album with 30 seconds of silence?)
I was not previously familiar with the artist or album. This is a pop/rock album with some ambient elements. The instrumentation is kind of off-putting for me and even some of the vocals I don't care for either. I would not come back to this one.
Completely faded into the background for me. Wholly unremarkable sadly
Nej för mig. Inget som fångade, tyckte inte heller om sångarens röst. Kniven mot strupen så tyckte jag att sista låten Dear God var ok. Albumtiteln gillade jag också förresten.
charming, but nothing wowed me. saved: dear god.
Pretty average, will not remember this at all.
A lot of nature references and comparisons. I felt confused listening to this. What do you mean by "like childrens' umbilical"?
65
Album 187. Skylarking (https://open.spotify.com/album/3FVsJiQMI7dp0RfTBdWtMW?si=NurvtbgERGyEtGMXbF2nIw) — XTC (1986) idk, I feel nothing about this album. Some pop rock mediocre music. Correct title of the album — Forgettable. I already forgot the album and nothing has changed in my life. It's even shitty for background, some whining voices there. 2/5 No liked songs
Weird like off beetles shit
I reckon this is a grower. I like the vocals. It's a bit quirky. And I want to listen to it again (after 2 goes already) but can't quite figure out why...yet. For now a 2 because nothing is really hitting the mark but I feel like it will at some point...
Quite dreary. Would I listen again? No.
Oh hey it’s New Wave.
This one is not my favourite. “Earn enough for us” is a big highlight but the rest just falls flat for me.
Overall did not leave an impression unfortunately
Ah, that thin, mild, mediocre sound. This is just a band I don't get. I know so many seem to think they're one of the greatest British bands, but I always feel they are lacking something. It's all a bit flat. Songs seem to fit everything I would like, clever lyrics, humour, pop hooks, experimental at times but it never hits the mark. Considering they were meant to be a studio band, why is it so wet and bland? Where's the passion? Best Tracks: Grass; Ballet for a Rainy Day; 1000 Umbrellas
I can't say the 600 series is off to a roaring start. Unremarkable.
Gets 2-stars only because it wasn’t as bad as Shitti Politti
5/10 - it's alright, sometimes too try hard but pleasant
Kind of weird and not in the best way. Dear God is a radio staple.
Nothing special
The lyrics are terrible. Some of the corniest lyrics I've ever heard, vocals are just as bad.
Another English alternative band that left no foot print? This is getting ridiculous. I have to listen to these guys, but I’ve only listened to one Rolling Stones Album on this entire list.
It was Ok I guess. Pop with a little bit of punk influence, not as bad as the horrendous cover made me think. Go look up the cover originally planned if you are interested..
Inoffensive yet somehow simultaneously dreary
Once we get into the 80s, I'm kind off done with this pop-rock genre. Either be psychedelic like in the 70s or be heavy as other bands were in the 80s. This one is not for me
Meh. Very British and very 80s. 2.5/10 Top song Dear god
This is very English! All over the place. Horrible 80's production. Yet I can hear so many bands that took inspiration from this sound. Field Music, Jellyfish, The Decemberists and Ben Folds Five for example.
07/04/2026 It's a strong contender for 3 stars, I just didn't connect with it like I hoped for. Spotify listeners: 751.9k
Another British record where I go "Yeah it was decent, but I'm not sure I NEEDED to hear that".
Thought it was kind of interesting at first, but after 45 more minutes of almost, I was more annoyed and bored. The only GOOD song on here, isn't even on the original album.
Very forgettable album.
Felt… boring. Never heard of this group and might not again (sorry).
Based on the title I thought I was in for a Ska or Reggae album. I got the Todd Rundgren album a few days ago so that was a neat point of interest. Not Kid Rock levels of bad.
Mostly forgettable. Not necessarily bad, just another UK post punk album on this list that doesn't really impress much. 2.5/5 Won't listen again.
Att detta band fick två album?! Det är var väl inte riktigt lika kasst som det förra i alla fall. Svag 2a
åh inte det här bandet igen… marginellt bättre än förra
na ja...
Not an awful 80’s sound. 2.5.
That last song kind of goes
Too many XTC
It’s not for me.
Ugh
I think I wanted to like this more than I actually did.
Decent mix of new wave and pop, but not really sure why this is on the list. Obviously familiar with Dear God, but the rest is pretty radio friendly, mid. One of those "had to be there" albums really, but nothing stood out to me to listen to again. Not bad though, just not memorable.
"Stop trying to make British 70s/80s rock happen. It is never going to happen"
Highlights: That's Really Super, Supergirl; Season Cycle; Earn Enough For Us Lowlights: Big Day; Another Satellite; Mermaid Smiled; The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul; Dying; Sacrificial Bonfire No idea what happened with the second half of this album, but it turned from a decent fun listen to one of the worst things I've ever heard in my life.
Unexceptional Brit-pop that seems interchangeable with all other 80s Brit-pop. Not sure why this is essential.
I gave this album the attention it deserved - so not much.
There is nothing special about this album. I can turn on the radio at any time and hear music that is it’s equal or better. This album should have no place on this list but as we get further along, I can see the standards drop. When it came time to rate the album, the Russian judge deducted 3 points for having simplistic lyrics that a grade-schooler could have written. There are too many instances of mailing it in to list them all but the one that got me was: “If you fancy we can buy an ice cream cone. Your mate is gone, she didn’t want to be alone.” I mean…really??!!
This was......creative. It wasn't good, but they had an idea and executed it in a manner that is polished and well produced. This is definately not for me.
Nää brittirimputtelut alkaa vähän tökkimään
Oli aika tylsää ja mitäänsanomatonta. Ei nyt mitään ihan absoluuttisinta paskaa kuitenkaan.
Didn't notice anything noteworthy compared to other bands from the 80s with the same sound.
Not for me
This was ok, not what I expected. The first half seemed like a concept album
This done nothing for me. The man who sailed around his soul was the most interesting track, the vocal style must have been what Southpark aped for the Catholic Boat theme. I found it boring and a bit insipid 2
A bit too twee for me. It's well crafted and occasionally does pique my interest when it hits a nice melody, but this style is just not my cup of English tea.
'70s in 1986? No, thanks.
This was a slog to get through. I didn’t really understand what kind of music this was supposed to be and it felt mostly boring and uninspired. I do like the Dear God song at the end though!
"Skylarking" claims to be a concept album, though identifying this concept is difficult at first listen. On the whole, it attempts to be a psychedelic album but gives the appearance of being rather thin in terms of musical performance and melody, particularly with the vocalist sounding like a budget store Tears for Fears. While there are a few good songs, notably "Ballet For A Rainy Day", the album leaves a rather unsatisfying aftertaste, and even the aforementioned song sounds like a bad ELO ripoff.
I always found them too cutesy and the years haven't changed that opinion. There was a lot interesting starting to happen in this time period and this held little interest for me then or now.
Grass That’s Really Super, Supergirl Another Satellite Mermaid Smiled Dear God
It was nice to hear Dear God again, but otherwise?
Eh. Didn't really stick out to me, aside from Mermaids
Meh. It was aight.
It wasn’t the most enjoyable listen, but there were a couple good tracks that grabbed my attention. I’ve heard worse two star albums, but it’s still not quite a three.
Egentlig okay hyggeligt. Stilen minder dog om rigtig meget andet, så er der andre jeg hellere vil høre..
Litt skuffa
I know I listened to this album but I actually cannot remember anything to write about it. So I guess that makes it entirely forgettable.
Sardonic solipsism. This record references it own rectum.
Muscially liked it but couldn't get past the lyrics. Never heard of this band before but looks like Phish covered them before. I think I can see where the Kasvot Vaxt influence may have come from too.
Uninteresting and far too British for my liking.
Had never heard of this band, but Dear God is a song I've liked before from a movie soundtrack I can't remember. The album is okay, very forgettable & especially the initial release without Dear God. Sounds like everything else.
This is what the Beatles might have sounded like if they weren't very good. 2 stars or D.
173/1001 XTC - Skylarking Heard before? ❎ Revisit? ❎ You know what I've said about 80s synth pop before? Yep, what I said. It's not awful, but it's not particularly good either. The couple of tracks that actually did away with a lot of the synthetic actually made the songs a bit interesting. All too few and far between though.
This album is pretty unique, and I didn’t hate it, but I also didn’t love it…. I listened to it a couple times, and the music is nice and the vocals are good but its just a little too out there for me.
I liked the first track. Then it seemed like every other track was a slip. I made it few several though and it was better than I remembered but Dear God is one of the worst songs ever recorded.
British Pop Punk New Wave. 2/5
155/1089 an aggresively *fine* album. didn’t feel super original but it had it’s moments and wasn’t “bad” but just didn’t really connect much faves: Dying, Sacrificial Bonfire, That’s Really Super, Supergirl 48/100
It’s sort of like a mish mash of The Stone Roses & The Beatles but without any of the musical ability or soul. I feel like I should like this, but it just feels off, empty, and hollow.
This one is tough. I like the musicality but the songs are all matchy matchy; nothing stands out as unique from the singing perspective. Dying was just awful, but Dear God was a-mazing. This comment from another listener: "But the singer sounds like being rick rolled for 49 minutes". Listened before? N Saved tracks? N Favorite tracks? Summers Cauldron, Season Cycle, Mermaid Smiled, Dear God ⭐⭐ Liked it, Didn't hate it