Complete List Of XTC Albums And Discography

XTC Albums

Feature Photo: porcupiny from Buena Park, United States, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

This Complete List Of  XTC Albums And Songs presents the full discography of XTC studio albums. The band XTC was first formed in 1972. The group XTC hails from the area of Swindon, Wiltshire, England. All these spectacular XTC albums have been presented below in chronological order. We have also included all original release dates with each XTC album as well as all original album covers. Every XTC album listed below showcases the entire album tracklisting.

XTC STUDIO ALBUMS

White Music (1978)

Released January 20, 1978

White Music is the debut studio album by the English band XTC, marking their entry into the music scene with a distinctive blend of punk rock and new wave. Produced by John Leckie, the album was recorded at The Manor Studio in Oxfordshire. White Music showcases XTC’s energetic and quirky style, characterized by angular guitars, jerky rhythms, and catchy melodies. The album includes tracks like “Radios in Motion” and a unique cover of Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower,” demonstrating the band’s eclectic influences and innovative approach to songwriting.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Radios in Motion” – 2:54
  2. “Cross Wires” – 2:06
  3. “This is Pop?” – 2:41
  4. “Do What You Do” – 1:16
  5. “Statue of Liberty” – 2:55
  6. “All Along the Watchtower” – 5:43
  7. “Into the Atom Age” – 2:28
  8. “I’ll Set Myself on Fire” – 3:03
  9. “I’m Bugged” – 4:00
  10. “New Town Animal in a Furnished Cage” – 1:52
  11. “Spinning Top” – 2:40
  12. “Neon Shuffle” – 4:39

Go 2 (1978)

Released October 6, 1978

Go 2 is XTC’s second studio album, released in the same year as their debut. The album continues the band’s exploration of new wave and punk, with an emphasis on clever lyrics, catchy hooks, and innovative arrangements. Produced by John Leckie, Go 2 was also recorded at The Manor Studio and features a more experimental sound compared to its predecessor. The album cover is notable for its text-only design, which humorously critiques marketing tactics. Tracks like “Meccanik Dancing (Oh We Go!)” and “Battery Brides (Andy Paints Brian)” showcase the band’s playful and avant-garde approach to music.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Meccanik Dancing (Oh We Go!)” – 2:36
  2. “Battery Brides (Andy Paints Brian)” – 4:37
  3. “Buzzcity Talking” – 2:41
  4. “Crowded Room” – 2:53
  5. “The Rhythm” – 3:00
  6. “Red” – 3:03
  7. “Beatown” – 4:09
  8. “Life is Good in the Greenhouse” – 4:42
  9. “Jumping in Gomorrah” – 2:06
  10. “My Weapon” – 2:20
  11. “Super-Tuff” – 4:28
  12. “I Am the Audience” – 3:48

Drums and Wires (1979)

Released August 17, 1979

Drums and Wires marks a significant evolution in XTC’s sound, with the band moving towards a more accessible pop-oriented approach while maintaining their distinctive new wave edge. The album, produced by Steve Lillywhite, introduced guitarist Dave Gregory to the lineup, contributing to a richer, more layered sound. Recorded at The Town House in London, the album features the hit “Making Plans for Nigel,” which became one of XTC’s most recognizable songs, showcasing the band’s knack for catchy melodies and clever, observational lyrics.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Making Plans for Nigel” – 4:13
  2. “Helicopter” – 3:54
  3. “Day In Day Out” – 3:08
  4. “When You’re Near Me I Have Difficulty” – 3:20
  5. “Ten Feet Tall” – 3:12
  6. “Roads Girdle the Globe” – 4:51
  7. “Real by Reel” – 3:48
  8. “Millions” – 5:37
  9. “That is the Way” – 2:56
  10. “Outside World” – 2:40
  11. “Scissor Man” – 4:00
  12. “Complicated Game” – 4:53

Black Sea (1980)

Released September 12, 1980

Black Sea continues XTC’s venture into more polished and powerful pop-rock territories, solidifying their status as one of the leading bands in the new wave movement. Produced by Steve Lillywhite, the album’s energetic and punchy sound, combined with socially conscious and introspective lyrics, resulted in critical acclaim and commercial success. Recorded at The Town House in London, Black Sea features tracks like “Generals and Majors” and “Towers of London,” highlighting the band’s ability to blend catchy pop melodies with thought-provoking themes.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Respectable Street” – 3:37
  2. “Generals and Majors” – 4:04
  3. “Living Through Another Cuba” – 4:45
  4. “Love at First Sight” – 3:06
  5. “Rocket from a Bottle” – 3:30
  6. “No Language in Our Lungs” – 4:53
  7. “Towers of London” – 5:24
  8. “Paper and Iron (Notes and Coins)” – 4:16
  9. “Burning with Optimism’s Flames” – 4:15
  10. “Sgt. Rock (Is Going to Help Me)” – 3:56
  11. “Travels in Nihilon” – 6:56

English Settlement (1982)

Released February 12, 1982

English Settlement marks a significant shift in XTC’s musical direction, featuring more acoustic textures and complex song structures, reflecting the band’s growing interest in pastoral themes and social commentary. Produced by Hugh Padgham and the band, the double album showcases a diverse range of styles and a more nuanced approach to songwriting. Recorded at The Manor Studio in Oxfordshire, the album includes “Senses Working Overtime,” “Ball and Chain,” and “Jason and the Argonauts,” illustrating the band’s versatility and creative ambition.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Runaways” – 4:34
  2. “Ball and Chain” – 4:32
  3. “Senses Working Overtime” – 4:50
  4. “Jason and the Argonauts” – 6:07
  5. “No Thugs in Our House” – 5:09
  6. “Yacht Dance” – 3:56
  7. “All of a Sudden (It’s Too Late)” – 5:19
  8. “Melt the Guns” – 6:34
  9. “Leisure” – 5:01
  10. “It’s Nearly Africa” – 3:55
  11. “Knuckle Down” – 4:28
  12. “Fly on the Wall” – 3:16
  13. “Down in the Cockpit” – 5:26
  14. “English Roundabout” – 3:50
  15. “Snowman” – 5:03

Mummer (1983)

Released August 30, 1983

Mummer is an album that further explores XTC’s shift towards pastoral and acoustic sounds, delving into more introspective and whimsical themes. Produced by Steve Nye and the band, with some tracks co-produced by Hugh Padgham, the album represents a departure from the band’s earlier, more energetic new wave style, embracing a gentler, more nuanced sound. Recorded at The Manor Studio and Utopia Sound Studios, Mummer includes tracks like “Love on a Farmboy’s Wages” and “Great Fire,” highlighting the band’s richly textured arrangements and thoughtful lyricism.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Beating of Hearts” – 3:56
  2. “Wonderland” – 4:03
  3. “Love on a Farmboy’s Wages” – 4:00
  4. “Great Fire” – 3:50
  5. “Deliver Us from the Elements” – 4:37
  6. “Human Alchemy” – 5:11
  7. “Ladybird” – 4:34
  8. “In Loving Memory of a Name” – 3:16
  9. “Me and the Wind” – 4:18
  10. “Funk Pop a Roll” – 3:04

The Big Express (1984)

Released October 15, 1984

The Big Express represents a return to a more robust and rhythmic sound for XTC, blending their new wave roots with a heavier, more industrial influence. Produced by David Lord and the band, the album was recorded at Crescent Studios in Bath and The Manor Studio in Oxfordshire. Featuring a train on the cover to symbolize the power and momentum of the music, The Big Express includes tracks like “All You Pretty Girls,” which utilizes the Skylarking instrument to create a distinctive nautical sound, and “This World Over,” which offers a poignant reflection on the aftermath of nuclear war.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Wake Up” – 4:42
  2. “All You Pretty Girls” – 3:41
  3. “Shake You Donkey Up” – 4:19
  4. “Seagulls Screaming Kiss Her, Kiss Her” – 3:50
  5. “This World Over” – 5:37
  6. “The Everyday Story of Smalltown” – 3:55
  7. “I Bought Myself a Liarbird” – 2:50
  8. “Reign of Blows” – 3:33
  9. “You’re the Wish You Are I Had” – 3:17
  10. “I Remember the Sun” – 3:10
  11. “Train Running Low on Soul Coal” – 5:20

25 O’Clock (1985, The Dukes of Stratosphear)

Released April 1, 1985

25 O’Clock is the debut EP by The Dukes of Stratosphear, a psychedelic alter ego of XTC, embracing and parodying the styles of 1960s psychedelic rock. Produced by John Leckie and the band, the project allowed XTC members to explore a different musical avenue, resulting in a collection of songs that pay homage to the psychedelic era with a modern twist. Recorded at Chapel Lane Studios in Hereford, the EP includes tracks like “25 O’Clock” and “Mole from the Ministry,” capturing the essence of psychedelic rock with a playful edge.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “25 O’Clock” – 5:03
  2. “Bike Ride to the Moon” – 2:23
  3. “My Love Explodes” – 3:52
  4. “What in the World??…” – 5:01
  5. “Your Gold Dress” – 4:35
  6. “The Mole from the Ministry” – 5:50

Skylarking (1986)

Released October 27, 1986

Skylarking is a critically acclaimed album by XTC, produced by Todd Rundgren. It is a concept album that explores various stages of life, love, and death, with a cohesive sound that blends pastoral pop with psychedelic influences. Recorded at Utopia Sound Studio in Woodstock, New York, Skylarking is often regarded as one of XTC’s finest works, featuring tracks like “Grass,” “Dear God,” and “The Meeting Place.” The album’s intricate arrangements and thematic coherence showcase the band’s songwriting and musical maturity.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Summer’s Cauldron” – 3:19
  2. “Grass” – 3:05
  3. “The Meeting Place” – 3:14
  4. “That’s Really Super, Supergirl” – 3:21
  5. “Ballet for a Rainy Day” – 2:50
  6. “1000 Umbrellas” – 3:44
  7. “Season Cycle” – 3:21
  8. “Earn Enough for Us” – 2:54
  9. “Big Day” – 3:32
  10. “Another Satellite” – 4:15
  11. “Mermaid Smiled” – 2:26
  12. “The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul” – 3:24
  13. “Dear God” – 3:37
  14. “Dying” – 2:31
  15. “Sacrificial Bonfire” – 3:49

Psonic Psunspot (1987, The Dukes of Stratosphear)

Released August 1987

Psonic Psunspot, the second and final release by The Dukes of Stratosphear, continues the exploration of 1960s psychedelic pop and rock. Produced by John Leckie and the band, this album expands on the themes and styles introduced in 25 O’Clock, offering a full-length homage to the psychedelic era with original compositions that capture the spirit and sound of the 1960s. Recorded at Sawmills Studios in Cornwall, tracks like “Vanishing Girl” and “Pale and Precious” are crafted with a blend of whimsy, nostalgia, and genuine affection for the psychedelic genre.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Vanishing Girl” – 3:00
  2. “Have You Seen Jackie?” – 3:21
  3. “Little Lighthouse” – 4:30
  4. “You’re a Good Man Albert Brown (Curse You Red Barrel)” – 3:38
  5. “Collideascope” – 3:23
  6. “You’re My Drug” – 3:18
  7. “Shiny Cage” – 3:17
  8. “Brainiac’s Daughter” – 3:59
  9. “The Affiliated” – 2:31
  10. “Pale and Precious” – 4:58

Oranges & Lemons (1989)

Released February 27, 1989

Oranges & Lemons is the eleventh studio album by XTC, embracing a more vibrant, eclectic mix of styles than their previous work. Produced by Paul Fox, the album features a rich tapestry of sounds, from psychedelic pop to world music influences, highlighted by tracks such as “Mayor of Simpleton” and “King for a Day.” Recorded at Ocean Way Recording in Los Angeles and The Town House in London, Oranges & Lemons is known for its bright, colorful production and intricate arrangements, showcasing the band’s broad musical palette and lyrical wit.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Garden of Earthly Delights” – 5:02
  2. “The Mayor of Simpleton” – 3:58
  3. “King for a Day” – 3:35
  4. “Here Comes President Kill Again” – 3:33
  5. “The Loving” – 4:11
  6. “Poor Skeleton Steps Out” – 3:27
  7. “One of the Millions” – 4:42
  8. “Scarecrow People” – 4:13
  9. “Merely a Man” – 3:26
  10. “Cynical Days” – 3:17
  11. “Across This Antheap” – 4:51
  12. “Hold Me My Daddy” – 3:44
  13. “Pink Thing” – 3:48
  14. “Miniature Sun” – 3:49
  15. “Chalkhills and Children” – 4:58

Nonsuch (1992)

Released April 27, 1992

Nonsuch is an album by XTC that showcases the band’s continued evolution, blending their signature smart pop with more elaborate and orchestrated arrangements. Produced by Gus Dudgeon, known for his work with Elton John, the album was recorded at Chipping Norton Recording Studios in Oxfordshire. Nonsuch features a wide range of musical styles and moods, from the politically charged “The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead” to the whimsical “The Disappointed,” highlighting the band’s versatility and depth as songwriters.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead” – 5:00
  2. “My Bird Performs” – 3:51
  3. “Dear Madam Barnum” – 2:53
  4. “Humble Daisy” – 3:36
  5. “The Smartest Monkeys” – 4:18
  6. “The Disappointed” – 3:23
  7. “Holly Up on Poppy” – 3:04
  8. “Crocodile” – 3:56
  9. “Rook” – 3:45
  10. “Omnibus” – 3:20
  11. “That Wave” – 3:34
  12. “Then She Appeared” – 3:52
  13. “War Dance” – 3:23
  14. “Wrapped in Grey” – 3:46
  15. “The Ugly Underneath” – 3:54
  16. “Bungalow” – 2:49
  17. “Books Are Burning” – 4:51

Apple Venus Volume 1 (1999)

Released February 17, 1999

Apple Venus Volume 1 marks XTC’s return after a seven-year hiatus, presenting a lush, orchestral-pop sound that diverges from their earlier guitar-driven work. Produced by Haydn Bendall, Nick Davis, and the band, the album was recorded at Idea Studios in Wiltshire and Chipping Norton Recording Studios. This first volume of the Apple Venus project showcases Andy Partridge and Colin Moulding’s matured songwriting, with tracks like “Easter Theatre” and “River of Orchids” characterized by rich arrangements and introspective lyrics, reflecting themes of love, loss, and renewal.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “River of Orchids” – 5:53
  2. “I’d Like That” – 3:50
  3. “Easter Theatre” – 4:37
  4. “Knights in Shining Karma” – 3:39
  5. “Frivolous Tonight” – 3:10
  6. “Greenman” – 6:17
  7. “Your Dictionary” – 3:14
  8. “Fruit Nut” – 3:01
  9. “I Can’t Own Her” – 5:26
  10. “Harvest Festival” – 4:15
  11. “The Last Balloon” – 6:40

Wasp Star (Apple Venus Volume 2) (2000)

Released May 23, 2000

Wasp Star (Apple Venus Volume 2) is the second part of the Apple Venus project and the final studio album by XTC. Returning to a more traditional rock format, the album features a collection of guitar-centric pop songs, showcasing the band’s knack for catchy hooks and clever wordplay. Produced by Nick Davis and the band, Wasp Star was recorded at Idea Studios in Wiltshire. Tracks like “Stupidly Happy” and “Standing in for Joe” reflect the band’s lighter, more playful side, while maintaining the lyrical depth and musical sophistication characteristic of their later work.

CD Track Listings:

  1. “Playground” – 4:17
  2. “Stupidly Happy” – 4:13
  3. “In Another Life” – 3:35
  4. “My Brown Guitar” – 3:51
  5. “Boarded Up” – 3:23
  6. “I’m the Man Who Murdered Love” – 3:33
  7. “We’re All Light” – 4:39
  8. “Standing in for Joe” – 3:42
  9. “Wounded Horse” – 4:11
  10. “You and the Clouds Will Still Be Beautiful” – 4:18
  11. “Church of Women” – 5:06
  12. “The Wheel and the Maypole” – 5:55

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