by XTC (Drums and Wires, 1979)
Off the band's third album 'When You're Near Me' starts with a misleading jangly guitar intro that lasts all of nearly seven seconds before the real feel of the song emerges with a short jab. Midly crunching ska undertones are employed on the rhythm guitar to provide a lively tempo while cutting guitar chords and Andy Partrdge's vocals provide a sharp punk-funk contribution. Even though the lyrics are delivered with speed their cyclical nature means that after a couple of listens the list of medical ailments are firmy lodged in your memory. The high RPM that jerks around is completmented by a couple of breathers and breaks that are slightly odd in conception but fit well with the band's typically hyperactive nature.
Legendary producer Steve Lilywhite was at the desk for the first time with the band at a time that saw the band embark on their first American tour, gain success with the now immortal single 'Making Plans For Nigel' and highten their songwriting skills to include social-political criticism.
AR
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