Black Sea
XTC · 1980
59 min · 14 tracks · alternative rock · new wave · pop rock
A vibrant blend of new wave and pop rock, bursting with sharp wit and social commentary.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- dynamic emotional journeys wave-like pacing experiences thought-provoking lyrical reflections
- Context
- Released in January 1980, 'Black Sea' is XTC's third studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Drums and Wires' from 1979. At this point in their career, the band was gaining significant traction in the UK music scene, transitioning into a more polished sound while maintaining their innovative edge.
- If you like
- alternative rock, new wave, pop rock
Black Sea is an album by XTC, released in 1980. A vibrant blend of new wave and pop rock, bursting with sharp wit and social commentary. 'Black Sea' marked XTC's entry into the UK Albums Chart, peaking at number 24 and solidifying their status as key figures in the new wave movement. The album received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and musical complexity, influencing subsequent alternative rock acts with its clever social commentary. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Black Sea sound like?
A vibrant blend of new wave and pop rock, bursting with sharp wit and social commentary. Rooted in alternative rock and new wave.
What makes Black Sea by XTC notable?
'Black Sea' marked XTC's entry into the UK Albums Chart, peaking at number 24 and solidifying their status as key figures in the new wave movement. The album received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and musical complexity, influencing subsequent alternative rock acts with its clever social commentary. Released in January 1980, 'Black Sea' is XTC's third studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Drums and Wires' from 1979. At this point in their career, the band was gaining significant traction in the UK music scene, transitioning into a more polished sound while maintaining their innovative edge.
Who is Black Sea for?
Black Sea works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, wave-like pacing experiences and thought-provoking lyrical reflections.
How many songs are on Black Sea?
Black Sea has 14 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Respectable Street Standout 3:36
- 2 Generals and Majors Standout 4:04
- 3 Living Through Another Cuba Standout 4:43
- 4 Love at First Sight 3:07
- 5 Rocket From a Bottle 3:29
- 6 No Language in Our Lungs 4:52
- 7 Smokeless Zone 3:50
- 8 Don’t Lose Your Temper 2:32
- 9 The Somnambulist 4:38
- 10 Towers of London 5:23
- 11 Paper and Iron (Notes and Coins) 4:16
- 12 Burning With Optimism’s Flames 4:15
- 13 Sgt. Rock (Is Going to Help Me) 3:56
- 14 Travels in Nihilon 6:56
Release Date
January 1, 1980
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Runtime
59 min 45 sec
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