Mummer
XTC · 1983
66 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock · new wave · pop rock
A whimsical tapestry of pastoral melodies intertwined with clever, introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes.
Mummer is an album by XTC, released in 1983. A whimsical tapestry of pastoral melodies intertwined with clever, introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes. 'Mummer' is notable for its critical acclaim, receiving positive reviews for its ambitious production and lyrical depth. While it didn’t achieve significant chart success in the U.S., it solidified XTC's reputation as a pioneering band within the new wave movement and influenced many alternative rock acts that followed. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Mummer sound like?
A whimsical tapestry of pastoral melodies intertwined with clever, introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes. Rooted in alternative rock and new wave.
What makes Mummer by XTC notable?
'Mummer' is notable for its critical acclaim, receiving positive reviews for its ambitious production and lyrical depth. While it didn’t achieve significant chart success in the U.S., it solidified XTC's reputation as a pioneering band within the new wave movement and influenced many alternative rock acts that followed. Released on August 30, 1983, 'Mummer' marked XTC's fifth studio album during a phase of artistic experimentation following their commercial peak with 'English Settlement'. At this point, the band was increasingly embracing a more eclectic sound, moving away from their earlier punk roots and delving into layered instrumentation and complex arrangements.
How many songs are on Mummer?
Mummer has 16 tracks, running approximately 66 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Beating of Hearts 3:55
- 2 Wonderland 4:50
- 3 Love on a Farmboy’s Wages Standout 3:58
- 4 Great Fire Standout 3:47
- 5 Deliver Us From the Elements Standout 4:36
- 6 Frost Circus 3:52
- 7 Jump 4:39
- 8 Toys 4:20
- 9 Gold 3:34
- 10 Procession Towards Learning Land 3:44
- 11 Desert Island 4:47
- 12 Human Alchemy 5:11
- 13 Ladybird 4:32
- 14 In Loving Memory of a Name 3:16
- 15 Me and the Wind 4:17
- 16 Funk Pop a Roll 3:03
Release Date
August 30, 1983
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
66 min 28 sec
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