XTC - Making Plans for Drums and Wires

XTC - Making Plans for Drums and Wires

Author: ITMW Music February 8, 2026 Duration: 35:58

By the end of the 1970’s, XTC had evolved from a quirky punk type of band into an intelligent and elaborate art-rock post-punk band with pop sensibilities and punk energy.

The band had formed in the early 70's in Swindon, England and was fronted by songwriters Andy Partridge and Colin Moulding. XTC's music featured distinctive angular guitars and witty lyrics as they were known for their energetic live performances and their non-conventional music.

Their 1979 single "Making Plans for Nigel" was a commercial breakthrough and began the popularization of the reverberating drum sound. This was well represented on XTC's third album, Drums and Wires, produced by legendary producer, Steve Lillywhite.

Our episode will tell the story of the band through their early years along with the development of XTC's music through the first three albums including the incredible third album, Drums and Wires.


Journey back to the heart of the 1980s alternative music explosion with Inside the Milky Way-A Look at Early Alternative Music. This podcast digs deep into the fertile ground that gave rise to post-punk, dark wave, synth-pop, industrial, and the foundational indie scenes. Each episode is a curated exploration, weaving together the stories of iconic and overlooked artists, the influential contributors behind the scenes, and the seminal tracks that defined a generation. We discuss the cultural themes and pivotal events that shaped this transformative era, from underground clubs to breakthrough moments on the charts. The show’s title, inspired by The Church’s 1988 classic "Under the Milky Way," reflects our focus on the dreamy, introspective, and often gritty soundscapes that characterized the time. Listen for a rich blend of music history, critical discussion, and personal reflection on the bands and movements that refused to follow the mainstream. Inside the Milky Way is more than a retrospective; it’s an immersive audio experience for dedicated fans and curious newcomers alike, offering context and connection to the music that built a lasting alternative culture. Tune in to hear the stories behind the sounds.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 89

Inside the Milky Way - A Look at Early Alternative Music
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