XTC
THE BIG EXPRESS
PANEGYRIC
After 1983’s Mummer, XTC’s seventh album, now with three bonus tracks, was considered overproduced in 1984. But, compared to what the decade held in store – and perhaps thanks to Steven Wilson’s new surround sound mixes – it now feels accessibly innovative, sometimes not unlike Tears For Fears. If it’s too busy, that’s due to an excess of ideas, from opener Wake Up’s post-punk-meets-post-rock to manic closer, Train Running Low On Soul Coal. Shake You Donkey Up’s wonky rhythms were even beaten out on trays, though LinnDrums are more prominent.