XTC – Black Sea VG+/VG+

“Black Sea” is an album by the English band XTC, released on September 12, 1980. Marking a significant point in the band’s evolution, this album showcased a more polished and accessible sound compared to their earlier works. XTC, known for their quirky and inventive approach to songwriting, blended pop sensibilities with post-punk energy in “Black Sea.”

The album’s production, led by Steve Lillywhite, is noted for its clean and powerful sound, which helped to make the songs more radio-friendly. The band, consisting of Andy Partridge (guitar, vocals), Colin Moulding (bass, vocals), Dave Gregory (guitar, keyboards), and Terry Chambers (drums), demonstrated remarkable musical versatility and creativity throughout the album.

“Black Sea” features a mix of up-tempo numbers and more thoughtful, lyrically complex songs. Tracks like “Generals and Majors” and “Sgt. Rock (Is Going to Help Me)” are notable for their catchy melodies and satirical lyrics, which reflect the band’s characteristic blend of wit and social commentary. The album also explores themes of love, society, and the absurdities of modern life, often through a lens of irony and sharp observation.

Commercially and critically well-received, “Black Sea” is often regarded as one of XTC’s finest albums. It solidified their place in the new wave scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s, and its influence can be heard in the work of many later alternative and indie rock bands.