Skylarking cover

Released 40 years ago

Skylarking

XTC · 1986

45 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock · new wave · pop rock

A lush tapestry of intricate melodies and poignant lyrics that intertwine the whimsical with the deeply reflective.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo reflective journey
  • whimsical melodies for daydreaming
  • intricate arrangements reward attentive listening
  • for sunny afternoon strolls

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer immediate high-energy tracks
  • seek standalone chart-topping singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on October 27, 1986, 'Skylarking' marked XTC's seventh studio album and followed their critically acclaimed 'Mummer' from 1983. At this point, the band was solidifying their reputation as innovative songwriters, pushing boundaries in alternative rock and new wave while collaborating with producer Todd Rundgren.
Stylistic neighbors
They Might Be Giants· Squeeze· The B-52's

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 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 2:53
  • 6 1000 Umbrellas 3:41
  • 7 Season Cycle 3:19
  • 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 Dying 2:31
  • 14 Sacrificial Bonfire 3:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata