Yet another comment on XTC 12" ``Grass''

[JTURNER%UMass.BITNET@WISCVM.WISC.EDU]

Well, let's see about this new single, shall we?

Admittedly, my copy is now worn out after a record 259 playings in three
days. I did get it on tape first, though. As you could imagine, I like it.
However -

"Grass" is a pretty wimpy song. Not many lyrics, pretty repetitive, and
kinda short. The production is muddy, and Partridge's trademark nasal vocal
just *doesn't* *work*. Sounds like a nice Air Supply tune.

"Extrovert" is what should have been the A-side. Powerful, punchy, well-
produced without being glossy or polished, and a trumpet solo that really
lets go. ``I feel like someone else...''

"Dear God" is by FAR my favorite tune on the single. Moving without being
too saccharine, angry as hell and he's not going to take it anymore. I only
wonder who the child vocal is at the beginning and end - not perfect, but
good enough to send shivers up my spine just thinking about the last chord.
``I won't beleive in heaven and hell, no saints, no sinners, no devil as
well...''

By all means, go out and give Todd and Andy your money. Just ignore the
a-side. The album ("Skylarking") should be around soon. If this is a taste
of the album, it should be REAL GOOD...

                                                      Joe