All The Those Little Wishes

Category: Review
Artist: XTC
Album: The Big Express

Once upon a time, XTC were an 80s band before trying to become a 60s band. During that time, they put out a little album called The Big Express. Easily there most overlooked and 80s sounding album, it is worth continued listens. I'm serious, you might hate it at first even if you love XTC, but you must keep listening! There are weak moments, questionable sounds, and some awkward songs but it is a good album regardless.

The first thing you have to prepare yourself for is the Linn Drum, a very dated sounding drum machine from the mid 80s. Some people feel this adds to the concept of the album, the train vibe, etc, but I think it sounds cheesy. Once you get past that, and the sub-par mix, you find some very good songs. The only song that really doesn't work for me is All You Pretty Girls. Yes, it was a single and most people probably dig it, but the foreign sounding guitar figure and over the top 80s sound turn me off. It is an okay song, but the weakest moment on the album in my opinion. The only other real moment of weakness is the various cheesy sounds on Shake You Donkey Up. Yes it is a good song, but the whips, yelping, and violin render a lovely little tune into a cheesy cartoon song.

Don't let this turn you off, there are many great moments to keep you coming back. The other two singles, Wake Up and This World Over, are two of XTC's more interesting singles. Album opener Wake up has some great choppy guitars, but it sounds like an unfinished melody. While the single edit of This World Over chops of the awkward a capella intro, and even though the song is still covered in dated 80s synth sounds the melody is saves it. The albums strength lies in its album cuts with the off kilter lounge sound of I Remember The Sun, the atmospheric keyboards of Seagulls Screaming Kiss Her, Kiss Her, and the vibrant I Bought Myself A Liarbird standing out brightly. Check this one out, and if you already have, put it back on and try to let it sink it.

By the way, the added b-sides, Red Brick Dream, Washaway, and Blue Overall are brilliant cuts that should have made album. I recommend them over the singles.

3.5 Out Of 5


Check It Out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQbFPNbxenE