What Makes This Song Great? "Mayor of Simpleton" XTC

In this episode of "What Makes This Song Great?" we explore the music of XTC.
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[@jasonlieberman4606]

Who else got stoked af just seeing XTC getting some recognition?

[@skonkiesskonkies8211]

meeee

[@2442daehssab]

Exactly!

[@Daberney]

Absotootley. I do wish they'd tackled "Senses Working Overtime".

[@rainbowrotcod]

ME!!!!!!

[@federiconavarrotrias]

Absolutely man !!

[@mattclark1278]

Someone once referred to XTC as "God's apology for the Beatles breaking up". Long live Britpop.

[@10dennis10]

Or alternately, "The Beatles without Beatlemania"

[@JoeyLevenson]

Love that, and totally true!

[@AlbertoVO5]

In my late 50s and have loved the Beatles since I was 8 years old. They’re the honorary favorite. And still, I wonder if XTC’s best work is better? The folly of apples and oranges comparisons. Or oranges and lemons.

[@VinnyBrando]

Agreed. Them and the late genius Elliott Smith...

[@silvamorphisphaeble7863]

Funny 💯❕👊🎼

[@philbell5774]

One of the most criminally under rated bands in history.

[@777Lateralus]

Sooo under rated, esp in the states

[@josephbalachick1879]

well said

[@thecman26]

Must be, I've never heard of them.

[@VinnyBrando]

Probably THE MOST.

[@sopwithcamelus]

Indeed.

[@jayaybe1]

I think XTC's *Senses Working Overtime* has got to be one of the most perfectly crafted, quality pop singles of all time.

[@BadgerBotherer1]

I bought that single when it came out. Still got it. Great song!

[@63Baggies]

I loved the mandolin like lines at the beginning...

[@BrianBrayMedia]

Just seeing the thumbnail and not knowing which song Rick was going to pick, I assumed it would be Senses Working Overtime.

[@grainmachine]

It is. Absolutely.

[@jayaybe1]

@@BrianBrayMedia Ha ha, me too actually 🙂.

[@umatim66]

Kids- I really loved doing this with Rick, and I too had a hard time deciding what would be the best xtc song to talk about. From Drums and Wires, Black Sea and my favorite, English Settlement, on to Mummer, the Big Express and Skylarking, Dukes of Stratosphere, all have so much greatness to digest(as does much of their later work after Oranges and Lemons). I’ve played shows in Atlanta doing only XTC songs- and the rewards of performing this material is so satisfying. Please all of you dig in to them, dig deep, and discover all their juicy goodness!

[@RickBeato]

Thanks Tim! Always great to work with you on music!!

[@61hink]

Awesome. Thank you so much for doing this. I never hear ANYONE mention this band. Please talk Rick into "Yacht Dance" next (or at least try playing it yourselves - Rick would enjoy that one I think).

[@korolev-musictodriveby6583]

James Hinckley - please , sir ! Loved XTC since ‘78 when I ended up with DaW , on the quest for Life Begins at the Hop ! Was completely entranced by their whole ‘ethos’ and didn’t , for a moment , miss having a ‘great’ drummer to follow . I loved Colin’s pop sensibility , and AP’s lyrics appealed to this ‘ Mayor of Simpleton ‘ . At this present time , ‘...by the half-light of burning republics , Joe Stalin looks just like Uncle Sam ‘ seems to come to mind somewhat too often . Do hope you’re very well ,though !

[@trevorknowone5710]

Agreed 💯% , thanks and respect.

[@chrisrhoton5344]

I really hope he took advantage of you being there and did a Jellyfish song too. Jellyfish is one of my favorite bands ever. As a bass player of 30 years, I can’t tell you what a cool thing it was to see you playing the bass to a song from another one of my favorite bands.

[@sarajamus]

You know what makes XTC cooler than they already are?! They aren’t blockers & let Rick get the isolated tracks to share with us their awesomeness!!!

[@TheMirolab]

YES!!.... music appreciation videos like this only have the goal of PROMOTING this great music for FREE.... how could a record company or artists not want this??

[@LarryHanson]

Yes. There gonna get more plays from me as a result. I'm a sorta XTC fan over the years, but with these demonstrations/explanations of their music I'm now going to give a listen to their albums and enjoy some of the underlying meat that is there.

[@BlackRoomProductions]

@@LarryHanson if you need album recommendations let me know, I'm one of the kook fans

[@BillPeschel]

@@LarryHanson They also published a book called XTC: Song Stories in which they talk about the band, their life on and off the road, the records, and the songs. Wonderful stories and insights into their creative process.

[@Mark95876]

@@BillPeschel Andy Partridge's book "Complicated Game" is the most entertaining book that I have ever read on songwriting.

[@ACCPhil]

My dad is aging and succumbing to dementia now. One thing that he does remember is teaching Colin Moulding. I think he knew Colin's dad quite well too. Whenever something about XTC pops up in the press, he notices and talks about it.

[@andyscott5277]

Kudos to your dad, Colin is a monster bass player. Quite underrated imo. Your dad must have been a great teacher.

[@bradsmith7311]

That's Awesome that he still feels that connection. BLESSINGS from the Colonies!XTC was always one of my favorites, so clever and accomplished.Cheers

[@robertspencer2516]

Just love XTC. So underrated.

[@stinkray66]

Always loved this song...had a surreal quality

[@chuckt4558]

I love how incredibly complex this song is and it's all about this guy who claims to be bereft of any higher intellect. XTC was a brilliant, brilliant band. I don't think enough praise can be heaped upon them.

[@kevdmiller]

I was thinking the same thing. Very clever craft, using such irony. I always thought the lyrics to this song were odd, because Andy Partridge seems like anything BUT a simpleton...but he's letting us know the truth with his smart songcraft. He's showing not telling.

[@jcw6574]

I think of that every time I hear it. I think of it as XTC's brilliant take on "Don't Know Much About History"

[@etamommy]

@@jcw6574 took the words right out of my mouth!

[@andyhinds542]

@@jcw6574 Interesting comparison!

[@scurfie2343]

One day Andy Partridge will be recognized for the genius he was and still is.

[@BassByTheBay]

Well, he _is_ recognized by some of us. But XTC just isn't everyone's cup o' tea, and that's fine. I (and many others) enjoy their catalog to this day and still find freshness in it, and that's all that really matters.

[@anthonypicco7811]

AND Colin

[@tparker2095]

@@anthonypicco7811 Correct, people don't realize how many of XTC's classics were written by Colin.

[@williammclauchlan2610]

I think he already is recognised for his genius and unique style of songwriting,I think this video and adoring comments prove that?

[@Sputeen]

Mike Keneally recognised it - if you haven't already, check out "Wing Beat Fantastic", his album of Andy Partridge tunes. Great music, unmistakeably Partridge.

[@itstheterranaut]

Q: 'What makes this song great?' A: It was written by Andy Partridge :)

[@rundoetx]

That says it all!!!

[@duncanmcgroyne9317]

Legit

[@ajadrew]

Yes!!

[@aleji0]

Can't thumbs this up enough.

[@budmaynard5952]

Well said! Although Colin wrote some of XTC's songs that were pretty awesome too.

[@ColinJarrett]

XTC are up there with Steely Dan for me. I think you have to be a musician to marvel fully at their greatness. Utterly unique and incomparable.

[@newtnevesyt4641]

Completely agree. In fact, if you are able to appreciate XTC and you're NOT a musician, you should probably start to try playing an instrument. Also, as good as "Mayor" is, Rick could have gone back to their earlier albums and found songs that are way, way further out there and have so much more to dig into. They're just much more complex, BETTER songs. But I will consider this episode a bone thrown my way.

[@jeffreywillstewart]

I love XTC. the layers of music and their harmonies are very interesting. Mayor of Simpleton got me into them.

[@timbishop9062]

Absolutely agree. They influenced me enormously. And it's interesting you mentioned Steely Dan: they had an equal influence on me.

[@joachimschreiner9675]

What a joke Steely dan, Genius. Xtc. Terrible singer.3 or 4 acceptable Songs. One of a Million average bands

[@blueabattoir]

Joachim, I’m getting the impression that you’re not a fan of the band. You are missing out on some excellent music. It is a bit complicated for the average listener.

[@spencergroup]

Props to XTC for being gracious with their tracks and allowing Rick to do what he does best. It's about time, past time actually, for XTC to enter the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They deserve it.

[@davebartholome2924]

Oh, I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for that. (Edit: Just to be clear, I think they deserve to be in it. I just don’t think it’s going to happen. At this point, the people who make the decisions about who gets in and who doesn’t have essentially discredited themselves with the number of terrible decisions they’ve made-to the point that I no longer care who gets in and who doesn’t.)

[@danbrockettDOP]

If you look at the file heading at the top of Rick's interface, this is likely a rip from the Steve Wilson 5.1 O&L Blu-ray remix of the since the file heading says, "5.1" I have the Blu-ray and it sounds amazing but I have not ripped it and isolated the channels as Rick has. It's a really nice way to hear how the sausage was made and should give anyone more to be impressed with about XTC's brilliance. Notjhing like hearing iso tracks, especially the non-Auto Tuned, beautifully harmonized vocals. I love lots of bands and lots of different a diverse musicians but from a pop standpoint, I don't see many other artists in the same league as XTC, this song is a jigsaw puzzle that was so brilliantly crafted and fits together like a fine watch mechanism. Nobody else really did or does this kind of work anymore.

[@kevdmiller]

They damn well deserve it...but I don't see it happening. They are not that well known (in the States at least)...but they are definitely one of the greatest bands ever. They will always be in MY hall of fame.

[@ElZnorroOriginale]

No, please! The Hall Of Shame isn't necessarily bad company, but some of the best bands will never be there, and XTC won't have to be there either.

[@steverose1977]

That's a damn fine idea! Not sure Andy would go.

[@stitchbonersoup8580]

When I was a kid my older cousin used to turn me on to new music. He gave me a copy of English Settlement when I was in junior high. I'm 48 years old now and still obsessed with XTC. The greatest band of all time.

[@JohnH108]

Rick could do a whole series just on XTC songs.

[@01goldg1]

It would take years...but count me in!!!

[@rabbitscooter]

I was about to write the same thing and realized someone else must have already said so ;)

[@scottlukomski7299]

Amen!

[@brentwalker3300]

Yes, please.

[@lakefraser]

I couldn’t agree more

[@styloroc2000]

Colin Moulding is such an underrated bassist -- the stuff they did under The Dukes of Stratosphear has some of the most incredible bass riffs.

[@luthercase1665]

Andy played bass on those... 😅 but I completely agree! Colin was so hugely important to the sound.

[@TheBritomart]

Brilliant, my favorite

[@oliviachambers2830]

I got chills when he isolated Andy’s vocals and as much as I adore XTC I still wasn’t quite expecting that

[@kitrichardson5573]

Andy is a great songwriter and a Ranger but he’s not really a great singer if truth be told. If you heard him sing the Star-Spangled Banner at a sporting event she would think to yourself, what the hell was that? He just has a very nasally sounding voice. Colin Moulding actually had a much more pleasing sound to his voice as a singer. I wish they had done more harmonies. And Todd Rundgren was able to get the most pleasant sound out of Andy that you will hear on any of his recordings. He gets a real nasal quality once he gets to the higher registers in particular particular

[@GregoryPruden]

Me too.

[@davidrubien9673]

@@kitrichardson5573 Andy (and Colin) is the vocalist most appropriate for XTC and that's all that matters.

[@GFHanks]

@@kitrichardson5573 Actually, truth be told, Partridge has a fantastic voice, and without it, XTC wouldn't be XTC. No knock on Colin, but if he sang lead on all of XTC's songs, XTC would sound like a McCartney and Wings knock off. Pleasing, is in the ear of the listener. One could argue that Lemmy Kilmister had a s#!tty voice. But, I sure as hell wouldn't want to listen to Motorhead if Donovan was the lead singer. Sorry, mate.

[@cincocharms1233]

@@kitrichardson5573 You are a tad bit clueless. He sings like Andy Partridge! Enjoy it, don't compare it. The clueless always attempt to ruin everything.

[@brianerickson7066]

discussing an XTC song with an ex member of Jellyfish...well this immediately became one of my favorite music related channels on KZbin

[@mrjah603]

Now I'm feeling like a jellyfish, just a spineless wobbly jelly fish...

[@robin_holden]

@@mrjah603 Better be prepared to be melted right down.

[@ArbeiterInnenlieder]

@@mrjah603 ...and it's great, great, so great...

[@Jam3sk3nna]

Dave Gregory guitar work in XTC is what brings it all together. A greatly underrated guitarist.

[@kidsmoked]

Yes, this should have been mentioned. Thanks for mentioning it! Andy is a great guitarist but no one can touch Dave.

[@mjedgerley]

Check out Tin Spirits. =P

[@fenix478]

Praise Dave Gregory too! Actually, that pedal show did a episode on him and the 12-string rickenbackers.

[@BassByTheBay]

Agreed. He was a brilliant arranger, and his guitar parts added so much to the songs. You can really hear/feel his absence on Wasp Star.

[@rabbitscooter]

He's done a ton of session work, too. I only just discovered he's on one of my favourite Peter Gabriel tracks, "I Don't Remember."

[@LookNumber9]

OMF God! I've waited 34 years to hear this isolated and analyzed. It is a masterpiece. Thank you!!

[@mikebee888]

I just love XTC, one of the greatest pop band ever. ❤

[@xXRoFFlaNXx]

XTC is the only band I've ever listened to that somehow has me discovering new things in the majority of their songs, even after multiple listens. The term "criminally underrated" was seriously made for these guys.

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

"Senses Working Overtime". Quintessential XTC sound.

[@valeriebeacham441]

My favorite XTC tune.

[@BassByTheBay]

Yeah, wish Rick had chosen that one... or, honestly, a load of other songs. Simpleton is great, but I think there are so many more interesting choices for WMTSG. I assume he picked one of their most recognizable songs for an American audience.

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

@@BassByTheBay Well, I'm an American audience member, and Senses Working Overtime got big play in alternative music radio here. Such a great melody, guitar riffs, harmonies, bridge (love that bridge!!!), and interesting drums.

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

@@BassByTheBay P.S. as an American, the first XTC song I heard was "Generals and Majors." Now that one really takes me back.

[@richardhorky9749]

Making Plans For Nigel, as well. But I agree with you. Watch This Is Pop, if you haven’t already.

[@christophertaylor9100]

XTC was this weird blend of musical genius mixed with really simple fun pop. So much more complex when you listen closely but it can be just enjoyed for the poppy tunes. Then you start to listen more closely to the lyrics

[@andyskittrall207]

As a fellow 'Swindonian' (Swindon in Wiltshire, England) it's so cool to have our home grown talent that is XTC given such appreciation! Andy Partridge signed all my album covers and books a few years ago which was so kind of him and something I'll treasure for years. My son bought me a large print copy of the Oranges and Lemons album cover for my birthday and Andy signed that too! It takes pride of place in my man den. Long live XTC and thank you guys for looking at this song in such great detail - awesome job!

[@blueabattoir]

You lucky lucky man. Go Swindon!

[@akeithing1841]

Other than the Swindon lot joining Slough in the office that is now the only other thing I know of Swindon!

[@rundoetx]

OMG!!! All these XTC fans coming out. I love it and love all of ya'll!!!!

[@61hink]

I feel the same way. I hope somehow Andy and Colin are able to see the comments here. It's nice to see such an outpouring for such an underappreciated band.

[@rundoetx]

@@61hink I hope so too.

[@1359401]

@@61hink Xtc right up their as being the most criminally underated band ever next to gentle giant

[@RaptorV1USA]

Right on !!

[@RaptorV1USA]

@@1359401 Mad Props for the Gentle Giant pull bro..I've not heard anyone other than me mention that band for 35 years..Bravo. 🤯

[@mollyhannah2003]

Looks like there are lots of people who have not heard of XTC. Thanks Beato for bringing this great band to the forefront!

[@biffphuddle6581]

XTC both in theory and execution were world class songsmiths and performers !!!!

[@lew5142]

Shocked and delighted it’s XTC this episode. They‘re not your typical ‘popular’. But better. Songs that flow in odd and beautiful ways.

[@garanceadrosehn9691]

As I started listening to this, I thought "XTC's the kind of group who would appreciate someone doing the kind of breakdowns that Rick does". So it was very cool to hear that the band sent you the separate tracks.

[@MikeBracewell]

"Senses Working Over Time" is also a pretty cool track, almost a mini symphony. XTC are easily one of the most underrated bands of all time IMHO.

[@EKUMock]

I’ve never been happier to see a song featured on this series. If I had to make a single desert island CD, this song makes the cut easily. Four minutes of pop perfection.

[@1nelsondj]

XTC is probably the best band to come out of the '80s, their prime period. Even their earlier post-punk albums were more intelligent than the rest in the genre and had more humor. It's a shame they finally ended, they were still making incredible albums.

[@TonyVirili]

I always had a lot of respect for this band, and as usual even more after Rick broke it down, but even MORE after learning that they gave him the tracks so that he could do this. Other bands and labels aren't always so accommodating.

[@stevepower1372]

OMG OMG never imagined you doing an XTC track. So happy! XTC's albums 'Oranges and Lemons', 'Nonsuch' and 'Skylarking' have some of the best songwriting, production and arrangement around.

[@RootinrPootine]

Absolutely GOATed

[@michaelmurphy987]

I know! this is such an awesome cut and just reinforces the fact that Rick has some great taste.

[@fabricehameau1646]

I would personally add Apple Venus volume 1, one of my favourites.

[@ajadrew]

Andrew Austin I have all of the XTC albums, originals too, I'm 61!! We all loved this sound!!

[@alexprvanovic6354]

I love XTC, this band comes close to the biggest bends when it comes to melody, arrangements and production!

[@terrywachter]

Great choice Rick! Check out Another Nail in My Heart by Squeeze. Not only one hook stumbling over another, but a blisteringly great guitar solo. Worthy of any Lennon and McCartney comparison. With a dash of Elvis Costello.

[@slipnslide9308]

Great band Squeeze or as they are known here in Australia, UK Squeeze.

[@blueabattoir]

Great recipe!

[@JohnWhitakerHRHardball]

I didn’t know two people who appreciated XTC like I did, this was an absolute treat

[@buildfinancialmuscle8091]

Glad to see the genius of Andy, Colin, and Dave getting some well-deserved recognition - if you are new to XTC, their entire catalog of work is worth checking out. Andy is one of the most gifted songwriters ever.

[@kingelvis5502]

Been listening to music my entire life and never heard about XTC. Im excited to get to hear something old/brand new!

[@drebatista]

Jellyfish is one of the all time underrated bands.

[@JulioLeonFandinho]

Dre Batista definetily

[@BCTravis]

Hugely amazing band that should get the recognition they deserve.

[@13mrbill]

Absolutely!

[@progger53]

Yeaaah

[@Tommy-TwigFan]

I bet Rick could get Andy to one of his videos

[@swami19581]

So lucky to have seen them live in Australia in 1980 with Magazine as support. Killer gig. Consider myself blessed. Genius band. Still have all my XTC vinyl. Highly intelligent writing and playing. ❤️❤️

[@dholliday7700]

Killer gig indeed. You were blessed.

[@nonnayoubuzinnes1669]

The bassline on this song is unbelievable. Can't think of a better bassline from start to finish on any song. Colin Moulding is so good.

[@christopherosborne7058]

Definitely, found out recently that AP wrote the bass line!!!

[@johnharrington1800]

and the video that's a send-up of the old Avengers series is so spot-on.

[@hicsunt5043]

Making Plans For Nigel is one of the catchiest, most straightforward songs I have heard in years, and I only just found out about it. I have spent decades ignoring XTC, to my loss.

[@kennethbarber438]

check out cover by Nouvelle Vague

[@Mark95876]

It's the song for helicopter parents.

[@blairhelsing630]

@@Mark95876 No Thugs In Our House, either!

[@DWilliams1707]

My feeling exactly. Always new who they were but back in the day their music never grabbed me. A few years ago I looked them up and was hooked.

[@quahogshell]

Have you listened to any of the XTC surround sound series?

[@skylarking31]

XTC were just about the perfect band for me. They made the complex seem simple and they weren't afraid to subvert expectation. This song is a classic example: there is so much going on, but it is so seamless that it instantly draws you in. Mix that with killer lyrics and watch them fly! So great to see them getting the recognition they deserve, and so like them that they aren't precious about letting Rick have the tracks. Good choice!

[@dickiebobradio1304]

In addition to the great music, there is poignance and humor in the lyrics and vocal delivery. Reminds me a little bit of Nick Lowe's "Cruel to be Kind" in that way...

[@warrenduprey286]

English Settlement is a classic.

[@BillPeschel]

"Oranges and Lemons" is one of those albums in which there are no filler tracks. Every one of them is a gem worth hearing and rehearing.

[@charlescoleman6896]

You could make a case that "Pink Thing" is filler

[@PeanutSpring3]

@@charlescoleman6896 I mean I feel like most of side 3 could be considered filler. It's an odd case of them all being great songs, but lots of them aren't very commercially viable and wouldn't be put on an album otherwise. Kinda like the Beatles White Album. There's only 2 songs I don't like (Revolution 9 and Good Night), but lots of the songs don't compare to the rest of their catalogue. If they cut a bunch of songs, it would be considered an overall masterpiece, rather than an inconsistent album with some bangers and some busts.

[@davidrubien9673]

Absolutely true. And how many double albums can you say that about?

[@mattgilbert7347]

@@charlescoleman6896 Pink Thing is amazing!!! Is it about a newborn or the other thing :D ?

[@gregsmith1070]

@@charlescoleman6896 agree Pink Thing is fantastic. Amusing ditty, superficially quite cheeky....but quite innocent 😇

[@gregkeith5320]

If you get the chance to watch the XTC documentary This Is Pop, Andy Partridge talks about having synesthesia and using that to drive his songwriting. Basically, when he plays a chord, he "sees" that sound as a color and uses those colors to influence how the song comes together. Amazing.

[@user-eo2oz2tf4q]

@@gregkeith5320 white music.. Sort of a punk album really.

[@ackytrax7552]

Hi Rick, greetings from Swindon (XTCs home town). They are a few years older than me so I spent my teenage years watching them play live and develop from the Helium Kidz into XTC. I remember hearing them rehearse for the English Settlement tour in the recording studio we were using in Swindon and also did a drumming session with Andy. I can't say I liked everything they produced but to me that was their great strength - they were never afraid to push the boundaries and do different things. I think another epic track of theirs is Train Running Low on Soul Coal about the demise of Swindon as a steam railway town. Hugely inventive very well played. Keep up the great work Rick. Much appreciated. All the best, Richard.

[@Jasper_the_Cat]

Yeah "Train Running Low on Soul Coal" is a really intense song- imo one of Andy's best.

[@emmejayeh.5995]

"English Settlement" is my favorite album of theirs. That rehearsal must have been amazing to witness! I was only 12 and in the US Midwest when they were recording that album, and very sad that I never got to see them live. Cheers!

[@jeffblack5024]

Was the studio Tudor? If so, my first band were in there too. Might even have used XTC’s Roland Space Echo on a demo. 😉

[@ackytrax7552]

@@jeffblack5024 Hi Jeff, that's the one. We ended up doing a lot of demos there. Happy daze :)

[@jimchabai3163]

Glad to hear you are one of the good blokes from the Swindon lot.

[@strat0871]

Oh I hoped it was "making plans for Nigel", what a great song.

[@ferrallc1]

Or you could do the whole skylarking album

[@theHumanBryno]

There's no shortage of great XTC songs.

[@paulsmith5150]

Living through another Cuba is a banger too

[@onbedoeldekut1515]

I also love the version by Nouvelle Vague.

[@Berserkr696]

I was named after that stupid song!!

[@lamfy6838]

One of my favorite bands of all time. I was lucky enough to see them live at Hurrah in NYC back in 1980, before they stopped playing live. They were phenominal.

[@absolving]

Andy Partridge is one of the best songwriters and composers ever.. mark my words folks

[@seanie002]

True Story

[@ants-in-my-eyesjohnson1271]

Aww damn it!! I marked your words, just like you said, and now I've got a long black line across my monitor. I used a sharpie and I can't get it off.

[@absolving]

@@ants-in-my-eyesjohnson1271 you should've used a highlighter

[@blueabattoir]

I agree with you.

[@richardgrier8968]

@@ants-in-my-eyesjohnson1271 Just use some whiteout.

[@rundoetx]

Rick, You just went up 100 points on my "cool" scale, lol.

[@personanongrata1308]

Whut? Rick is off the scale cool even when he's talking about Locrian Natural 2nd.

[@trjb1767]

10000 points

[@kristinekirchen9960]

First blown away that Rick did a WMTSG episode on any song from XTC and secondly love that there are so many XTC fans writing in. For all who are unaware of this group, please check them out. Andy Partridge is an amazing songwriter. In my opinion, XTC is one of the most underappreciated bands. Thanks Rick for shedding some light on this great band.

[@TheRealShrike]

I've been a huge fan since about 1990 when my English teacher turned me on to them with the baseline for "one of the millions." I had a really hard time finding people who shared my appreciation for them. The utterly stunning creative output in the trio of skylarking, oranges and lemons, and nonesuch it's hard to surpass.

[@danielbrockett9544]

LOVE that Andy gave the tracks to Rick to break down. Thank you Andy, Rick and Tim for this, it's so wonderful to hear all of the pure genius and craft that Andy, Colin and Dave put into this slice of brilliance.

[@ellisweiner6405]

One of the best things I ever saw on the Internet is someone saying, "XTC is God's apology for the breakup of the Beatles." And Andy P. said (and I agree), "There were two bands who started out great and got greater. We were the second." TRUTH!

[@jeffblack5024]

If you go back and listen to XTC’s recording debut, ‘Science Friction’ with its manic punk energy, it almost sounds like a different band. But the humour and invention were always there. Coming from Swindon, it was hard to believe we had one of the most original bands in the world living among us. In fact, Colin was the groundsman at my school.

[@vhhawk]

Oh my gosh. Back down my early 80s rabbit hole. Those were some days breaking out alternate music in North Carolina. "Living through another Cuba." "Senses working overtime." Wow. Thanks for featuring XTC.

[@MrKingola]

I have to say, as soon as I saw Tim with you holding a bass, I knew it would be “Mayor of Simpleton”. A brilliant masterwork and one of Colin Moulding’s many great contributions to the rock/pop bass canon. “Ballet for A Rainy Day” would be another to listen to for Colin’s great work. When “Mayor” came out, it was imperative that I learned that bassline. Thank you so much for doing this treatment of music’s most criminally underrated and under appreciated band.

[@johnlampe3258]

Always liked this song but never paid attention to how complex it is! Now I LOVE this song. But of course, Rick says it's GREAT!

[@MrKingola]

Alan K You are correct; those who know of them don’t underrate them, I was thinking more in terms of the general public, but point well taken.

[@TemmeSikkema]

Actually, it was Andy that wrote the bass part for this song. Colin still is one of the best bass players and composers out there, of course!

[@robin_holden]

@@johnlampe3258 That's the great thing about this band, they can make complex things sound simple, and simple things sound complex!

[@JoelAAK]

I ran my fingers raw learning this bass line. Still have never got it dead on, but therein lies the adventure!

[@chrismcclary108]

Holy Jesus! XTC is getting credit! Awesome Mr. Beato

[@kft590]

XTC is one of the most underrated bands ever, props for recognizing some of their greatness.

[@SrTubular]

XTC in Rick's "What Makes This Song Great?", what could be better? Having Tim Smith along to show us the majesty of Colin Moulding's bass parts. Great episode.

[@mollyhannah2003]

Memories of college and working at the local record store in the late 80s come swirling back....

[@jefwilson6695]

I don’t know if I am more excited about the analysis of one of the greatest records ever made or if I am more excited that Rick got the bass player from jellyfish to join him for the analysis! Or the fact that he got the tracks from the band directly! This is totally amazing. Thank you so much, Rick.

[@falcongumbarecords589]

Those guys are legit geniuses, still recovering from the first time I heard River of Orchids

[@bobbyduthu]

Having played with The Producers, Jellyfish, Sheryl Crow, World Party, The Finn Brothers, Kristian Bush, Jennifer Nettles, Sarah McLachlan and Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, how ‘bout an episode on Tim Smith called, “What Makes This Musician Great”? : )

[@jimh1369]

I was going to reply that the intro guitar part sounds like "What she Does to Me" by the Producers, and I think Tim Smith bridges that gap. Both XTC and the Producers are two of my faves. Thanks Rick and Tim for featuring this song!

[@Mcgiver699]

@@jimh1369 Wow Tim Smith played with The producers? They were my first gig ever. What a band, "She Sheila" is still in my mind :)

[@TheBritomart]

The Producers🥰

[@kawasakiwhiptwo5821]

Rick - " what makes this song great, from Oranges and Lemons... Me - "wait for it, wait for it."... Rick - " The Mayor of Simpleton." Me - "yes!"

[@RaptorV1USA]

Lol me too I'm all WWWHHHHIICHHH OONNNEEE!!!! tough choice...I love to see Generals And Majors also.....and Making plans.. and....

[@SisterAbdullahX]

Tim’s bass playing on Jellyfish’s “Spilt Milk”, some of the finest bass lines ever recorded.

[@centaureg]

Grateful to see someone with chops dig into one of the best, if not the best, bands ever. Andy Partridge is up there with Ray Davies as one of the greatest songwriters of his time. Hard to believe their last albums came out over 20 years ago. Thank You!

[@catsteinhilb2880]

The best in my eyes ❤

[@mitfreundlichengrussen1234]

Thx a lot - you just made me stupidly happy.

[@tommc4916]

Karl Gohlke What you did there. Saw it. I did.

[@petelawrie6310]

Good on you ya fruit nut

[@Eefaux]

Rick Beato and XTC. Sharp intake of breath, drop everything and watch. Love it! Keep ‘em coming Rick.

[@theray1319]

I feel like a kid at XMAS

[@RaptorV1USA]

Exxxactly lol. Drop EVERYTHING Press Play.

[@greyseal53]

Oh, yes. I saw this in my YT recommendations and thought "NO WAY!!" - it was "WAY!!!" Christmas time indeed...

[@shanehen]

One of my favorite groups of all time. Tremendous talent all around.

[@peterbrusch1493]

One of their most beautiful songs. A masterpiece in music and lyrics. Love XTC.

[@michaelz6555]

“Dear God” is my favorite XTC song, but hearing this review was a delightful and unexpected surprise. Thanks, Rick!

[@sarajamus]

Dear God was my introduction to XTC. Monster track & definitely my favorite by them!

[@kelvinturner2941]

Love it Love it. This would never make into our Prime Minister's top 10,but such a thought provoking song.They are masters of great "pop" songs with a social commentary bite. Drums and Wires was my introduction to XTC and then other great albums like Mummer( Love on a Farm Boy's Wages,brilliant) and then Wasp Star and Apple Venus ( Stupidly Happy) Thanks to Rick for helping to spread the word for one of the most underrated bands, XTC.

[@krollpeter]

@@kelvinturner2941 Apple Venus I and II contain some of their greatest works (just a few weaker songs). Nevertheless, I agree with Mr. Moulding. Me too had preferred they made one album from it.

[@1nelsondj]

I love that song, was disappointed that it was not originally included with "Skaylarking" so I bought the single. My favorite is probably 'The Beating of Hearts' from "Mummer" which is my favorite XTC album.

[@richardday7901]

Flipping awesome! Always loved this song and I'm a big Jellyfish fan as well. Cool that XTC gave you the tracks too. All around great job. Thanks Rick and Tim!

[@Mark95876]

The XTC book 'Complicated Game' is the most entertaining book that I have read so far on songwriting. A must read for XTC fans.

[@JoelAAK]

That book goes pretty deep into the XTC catalog. Been a fan for 37 years now; I always find something new in their music to latch onto.

[@johnnymartinuk2025]

Dave Gregory's 12 string awesomeness, I reckon. So underrated!

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

Rick just made my head do an owl. I can't believe it. XTC was brilliant. One of my favorites growing up.

[@christroyer3358]

Be still, my heart! One of my all-time favorite: a) Bands b) Songwriters c) Bass players d) Songs All in one presentation! Keep up the great work, Rick.

[@scottmckenna9164]

I'm a 60's hippy, pop music lover. (among other things) This video is my introduction to XTC. I'm in good hands with Rick Beato.

[@TheBritomart]

Check out their Beatle spoof project, Dukes of Stratosphere, gold.

[@MikeGraceJediDad]

Welcome home. I know you will enjoy most of XTC's music as a fellow Beatles fan. Andy and the guys never claimed to be above or even on par with the Fab Four. They respected them.

[@alanfunt4013]

Don't forget their off-shoot band "The Dukes of Stratosphere". Pure genius.

[@frankalfar]

Very 😎 and never get tired of playing any Dukes of Statosphere and this album same thing as well as Drums and Wires , English Settlement and Black Sea.

[@hallamhal]

Oh my God! My favourite band since The Jam, this is the last thing I expected you to cover!!! Awesome!!!

[@mollyhannah2003]

The Jam was a great band, too! Would love to see them on a WMTSG!

[@hallamhal]

Really fun to play and sing at the same time

[@user-qr8ki8ue4i]

The Jam was so unique. So tight. Another band I keep wishing he'd highlight is Talk Talk. But...their best sounds were less of the pop influenced and more in the jazz realm when Hollis' brilliance really shone (like the eternally confounding "Spirit of Eden" album).

[@johnmavroudis2054]

XTC, The Jam, The Chills, The Chameleons, Radiohead, Grandaddy... there. I'm a very happy camper now.

[@whitworthfields]

“King for a day” or “The Man who murdered love” would be nice Rick, but I realise you can’t do everything, love what you do, so keep doing it. Best wishes from Swindon UK, birthplace of Justin Hayward (Moody Blues) Rick Davies (Supertramp) And of course XTC !

[@80sDweeb]

I immediately wondered how you came up with the tracks, I never imagined you got it from the band! Outstanding.

[@derfunkhaus]

Such an amazing song and recording. Everything shines: the guitar, the melody, the harmonies, the bass, and the lyrics. Just when you think you’re at maximum musical bliss, along comes the bridge and it’s like an out of body experience.

[@rundoetx]

I'm in heaven and haven't even watched the video yet. XTC!!!! I already hit the "like" button. One of my all time fav bands.

[@george00719]

I thought only Brits knew of XTC...I guess they must have crossed the pond at some point?

[@TC-ps9sd]

G W I’ve always been a big fan of music from the UK. Some of the most innovative rock ever.

[@flux1968]

G W Skylarking put them on the map here, Dear God in particular, but there were a few of us who loved them before that

[@rundoetx]

@@TC-ps9sd Innovative is Andy Partridge's middle name, lol. His lyrics are fantastic.

[@rundoetx]

@@flux1968 Yup, Ever since GO and GO2. But they just got better and better from there.

[@fmphotooffice5513]

Picking through the huge pile of gold throughout all of XTC, my favorite nugget from this album is Across This Antheap, for poetry, gravity, and a very lush composition. It's of course one of DOZENS of amazing cuts from their complete discography.

[@danloani]

Thanks to Rick for pointing this one out. There's a lot of good music on the XTC album "Oranges and Lemons". Very underrated. I have the Mobile Fidelity version of this cd. Awesome.

[@TheRealShrike]

I like every single song. Least favorite is cynical days but it's still not bad.

[@dockerdave]

Such a great band. Their songs are always so subtly complex.

[@captainnemonic]

Man, my high school accounting teacher tipped me off to this band...in the late '80s. XTC has some great stuff. Bravo for this "What Makes This Song Great" installment! They are back on the playlist, haha.

[@CraigShifflet]

For anyone new to XTC via this video, I recommend the 'This Is Pop' documentary on XTC.

[@61hink]

I'm not new to XTC but I've never seen or heard of that documentary. I'd love to see it.

[@CraigShifflet]

@@61hink Let me know how you like it!

[@ArbeiterInnenlieder]

I recommend buying all their albums.

[@danielbrockett9544]

Where can one see This Is Pop? In the U.S.

[@leoshishmanian661]

Thrilled to see XTC get some love! The breakdown is amazing. And thanks for bringing Tim in to show some of Colin Moulding's bass. I've always marveled at Colin's activity on this track--really showcases his chops.

[@Grant_Ferstat]

Anyone who hasn't seen it really should see the XTC Doco This Is Pop. Well worth watching. Great to see Tim too. God I love Jellyfish!

[@fergusmacneill9852]

I've loved this band, XTC, since 1978. They are one of Swindon's (from Wiltshire, England) finest. Highly innovative; interesting, and influential. Well done for highlighting their magnificence

[@andyisdead]

They are most certainly the best band to have come from Swindon

[@jeffblack5024]

They’re good, but they’re no Billie Piper.

[@503matelo]

I see how he might think the guitar line is "Don't Fear the Reaper"esque

[@sjdanthem]

Yeah, it's the ringing note. I didn't catch what note it is but DFTR has the open G ring. Plus the cowbell of course.

[@503matelo]

@@TANTRUMGASM God Forbid! And I'm an atheist. I'm not going to ask Rick to analyze Jeff Watson's two-handed tapping solo over "Sister Christian" in this universe.

[@greg7656]

i heard it right away

[@mal2ksc]

It actually sounds more like John Fogerty's "Centerfield" to me.

[@vurite]

I read Andy saying he was fooling around with the "Reaper" riff when he wrote it...

[@fuzzytabby4304]

Growing up in 80s LA I was a big Boingo fan and I noticed that Andy partridge had similar vocals in some of the songs to Danny Elfman so that got my attention and then I discovered so many of their great songs and ended up owning all of their records. They don't have a huge following where I'm from (most people only know "Dear God") but I'm proud to be a big fan.

[@CathyKeating]

XTC fans everywhere salute you for this one! I love this song, as I love so many of the Andy Partridge compositions. And yeah, it's great because he wrote it, but what I am loving about your channel is that we get to really see the intricacy and unusual choices in the chording, the arrangement, the vocal work and layering of the harmonics, just bloody all of it. And yeah, I'm a US fan of this band since back in the early 80s. Grew up loving everything about them, and it all sounds just right to me. This band is the proper inheritor of the Beatles' legacy. Oasis be damned.

[@jeffblack5024]

You are so right. And XTC even did the Beatles better in their Dukes of Stratosfear alter ego.

[@MikeGraceJediDad]

I agree. Oasis can suck (insert disgusting object of your choice here) Fact is, Oasis just sucks. They aren't even within a light year of XTC or the same planetary system as the Beatles.

[@EDubNYC]

Truly one of my favorite songs of all time; to me, thematically it's kind of the updated sister song to Sam Cooke's "What a Wonderful World" (i.e. "Don't know much about history, don't know much biology..."). Anyway, I've listened to it countless times, turned my kids onto it, it's both incredibly smart and incredibly romantic. Fantastic job, Rick, as always.

[@Dartman6]

JUST AWESOME! XTC is one of my all-time favourite bands, and are grossly underrated! Bass player Colin Moulding and guitarist Dave Gregory deserve a lot of credit for their outstanding playing on this album (and all the other XTC albums). Please do more WMTSGs on XTC, Rick!

[@magnificentmuttley2084]

Thank you Rick and Tim for recognising XTC, one of the cleverest bands ever. They really cared about their musicianship and songwriting. At a time when punk and thrashing was all the thing in the UK, XTC were being thoughtful and honing their musical skills on great songwriting and innovative playing. Andy Partridge was a gem and unfortunately suffered terribly from stage fright and performance nerves, otherwise they would’ve been a MASSIVE arena band. Their music has never aged and is still listened to in the UK. And definitely in my house.

[@rodroller6634]

XTC, REM, The Smith’s. That pretty much sums up 10 years of my life. So obsessed with these groups. To write lyrics and play music at the level these groups did still amazes me.

[@nodiggity9472]

Which of the three do you think stand up best today?

[@jeffvanderwerf3391]

Three great bands each in their own way. I got into the Smiths a little later, but REM and XTC were central to my late-80s soundtrack.

[@dave-jk6en]

@jimboyer6440they absolutely do!

[@CatmanJimbo]

@jimboyer6440 If anything I rate the Smiths a lot lower. The lyrics and guitar are good but the rest of it kind of lags in my opinion. REM and XTC melody writing takes a massive dump on anything Morrisey sang as well

[@dampergoldenrod4156]

@@nodiggity9472 rem has about 2 good songs. far too overplayed.

[@jeffb6730]

Can’t stop smiling! Thanks for showcasing my favorite band of all time! What a wonderful treat.

[@lordgeous1766]

Great to see this wonderful band in this fascinating series and to see such enthusiasm for them. I had the 'labour of love' producing and engineering The Big Express and working with Andy, Dave and Colin in the 1980s! Great stuff Rick & Tim.

[@dmac8949]

Have loved XTC for 40 years, this is one of my favourite XTC songs...Thanx for this

[@therealjamesbaker9138]

XTC was an amazing - and criminally overlooked - band. Great to see them belatedly getting some exposure