Even with two of its members dead, I still have more confidence in seeing a Beatles reunion with all four members than I do in a reunion of XTC's two principles. It's been said, "Never say never." I say, "Never." I've been wrong before and I do hope I am wrong again. But until that day, we have one of the most brilliant catalogues in rock history forever astounding us. And it is that brilliant catalogue by authors Andy Partridge and Colin Moulding that is celebrated on Futureman's epic collection, "Garden Of Earthly Delights."
This two-CD set, with additional digital only tracks, is a whopping 49 tracks by some of indie's elite. Like so many tributes, there will be some entries that will make the hair on your arms stand up and shout, and some that will break your heart. That, of course, comes with the territory. You are certain to have your favorites which may not be my favorites, and so the world revolves. But what makes this Futureman collection a cut above the others is that everyone wants to be here! You can feel the love and respect for the honorees in every performance.
I previously shared Chris Price's stunningly gorgeous take on "Peter Pumpkinhead," and on Friday you will get to hear the rest of this wonderful set. Pete Donnelly, Chris Church, Derrick Anderson, The Anderson Council, Bird Streets, Gretchen's Wheel and featured above, Bertling's Noise Laboratories represent a small sampling of this stellar roster delivering both faithful and redesigned versions of your favorite XTC songs. King Radio's clever dash of The Kinks' "Victoria" in "Mayor Of Simpleton" is particularly delightful.
"Garden Of Earthly Delights" is never boring. As a matter of fact, it's a treasure trove of marvelous surprises. I am almost certain that if you have previously only dabbled in "Making Plans For Nigel" and "Dear God," this collection will pique your interest and unleash your heretofore unknown love for this band. The 2 CD set will available on Friday through Bandcamp. 32 tracks on CD, with 17 more ready for download with purchase.
This is pop, damnit! So, don't delay.
9 comments:
Looking forward to hearing this. Thanks for the tip.
I've been eagerly anticipating this collection since you teased us with the Chris Price cut. "Summer Cauldron" and "Grass" are wonderful 'straight' takes of those songs. A great chance to hear all these great songs in one place. I've got it on my calendar nd will be the first thing I do on the 6th.
Hear hear! The "can't miss" release of 2020 (for now at least!)
Give me another half dozen of this caliber and I would be a happy camper. Thanks for heads up. XTC was the first internet online group I joined. Learned a lot. There was a cassette release of fans doing XTC covers. It seemed to draw a high level of music lovers and especially super bright people and than me.
I believe Shindig Magazine mentioned an EP of a collaboration with Robyn Hitchcock and Andy Partridge but haven't heard. Is there any equivalent to the eccentric Brit pop song writer/artist, ie Andy, Robyn, Paul Weller, etc. on the American side? Still making relevant music.
Ken,
The Robyn/Andy E.P. has been out for some time. It's called Planet England.
https://www.amazon.com/Planet-England-ROBYN-PARTRIDGE-HITCHCOCK/dp/B07VWZW878/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=andy+robyn+planet&qid=1583323513&sr=8-1
They are working on a full length, which they claim is going to be their "Sgt. Pepper."
This will be something very special. Futureman Records knows the importance of exposing the important music of the powerpop genre we love. XTC is a pillar of inspiration and these tribute cuts are exceptionally well done!
Thanks for the heads up. Reminded me "Skylarking" is such a great album to listen to (and not just when you're looking up at the sky and larking about - although it's pretty good then too). Cheers!
Just ordered the CD, and listening to the downloadable tracks - man, what a deal! All this incredible music for a very low price, with instant high-quality download... and all for charity. SWEET!
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