“Ball And Chain” / “Punch And Judy” (Virgin VS 482) March 1982

XTC | Ball And Chain (Virgin) 1982 | I’ll admit I was surprised by the success of the comparatively complex ‘Senses’, and this un’s a complete departure yet again – a Sgt. Peppery singalonga chant that gives Colin Moulding his go on vocals (and songwriting).

Simpler hook, more basic all round, but features a delightful understated synthy bit, loving loping drumbeat and much warmth. It soon grows on the brain like a friendly fungus – specially if enhanced by excellent new OTT-debuted video.

One has a fondness for this lot rather like one does for one’s oldest bestest teddy bear. (Sounds, 20/03/82)

XTC | Ball And Chain (Virgin) 1982

There seems to be a severe danger right now of XTC becoming socially acceptable. Right, lets put a stop to that straight away. Here they express concern for our environment, but the music is the same as it’s always been – clever, beaty and rigid and utterly devoid of warmth, grace, style, beauty or real humanity.

Hollow. This is not a personal vendetta – you tell me they’re nice blokes and I’ll believe you. The record stinks. (Record Mirror, 20/03/82)