Disco de XTC: “Waspstrumental”

I give this only four stars because without the words it is slightly less than perfect. Although not really intended for karaoke, this disc certainly would be good for it. One can't help but sing along where the words should be. Mind you, these are the original instrumental tracks... nothing has been re-recorded.

I find this to be an interesting novelty best suited for background music. Honestly, if you are an XTC fan and, like me, believe Wasp Star to be among their best work, then you are going to first turn to that original CD for your listening pleasure.

Wasp Star was the perfect pop-rock tonic for the beginning of the 21th Century. This all instrumental version of the album lacks some of the distinctive elements that made WS so essential to the XTC catalog; the lyrics and singing of Mssrs. Partridge and Moulding.

This is a bit too expensive to purchase as an import unless you must absolutely postively have everything XTC has. I would suggest passing on this album and waiting for the next Dukes release (it's for a charity album and it's a single track)or, at the very least the next XTC or Fuzzy Warble installment from Andy.

Why does this album exist and why did I listen to it? If instrumental versions, ie vocals edited out, of XTC's newest offering interest you, then buy it. But be warned that without vocals this fair album is just that much more tedious. With the vocals Wasp Star is far from XTC's best, without the vocals,its repetitive to the point of pain, and it's their worst. What's the point?