Peter Murphy - Final Solution (Beggars Banquet)

This is a cover version of a record by Pere Ubu (a group fronted by an interesting fat man who did some mighty strange squealing and squawking five years ago). Pete Murphy, who left Bauhaus to do embarrassing things like dancing around in sand pits at ‘art happenings’ is now called Peter. Sounding more like David ‘Ziggy Stardust’ Bowie than ever, and making great gnash ‘n’ snarl club records like this. (Sorrel Downer, Smash Hits, November 20, 1985)

Yet another small-minded song, made on a big scale, this is apparently the third and final mix. Still better known for doing tape commercials than he is for his singing, Peter Murphy will remain on the periphery of pop stardom until he learns to stop imitating David Bowie and tries to find his own identity. As it stands, the only thing that could make this sound decent…is distance. (Mike Morris, No 1, December 14, 1985)

Thompson Twins - Revolution (Arista)

Everyone’s got their favourite Beatles’ songs, and this original flip-side to the “Hey Jude” single has always been one of mine. Included on their recent Here’s To Future Days album, The Twins have since remixed “Revolution” for single release. In keeping with the sound of the original, Tom Bailey and crew have gone for a raw and raunchy rendition, which should rocket them into the higher echelons of our Christmas chart. And deservedly so. (Mike Morris, No 1, December 14, 1985)

A packet of Dairylea Cheese Triangles  has got more chance of turning the people to revolt, quite frankly, but this cover of the Beatles “classic” is well up to par as these things go. Still, I preferred their rendition at Live Aid when they had the not altogether unattractive and mightily talented Madonna on backing vocals. Much more preferable than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick, I can tell you. (Peter Martin, Smash Hits, December 4, 1985)

Shakin' Stevens - Merry Christmas Everyone (Epic)

Shaky Seems to have been rocking around that old clock for quite a while now. But still he keeps 'em coming. Naturally enough, "Merry Christmas Everyone" is one of those characteristic Christmas songs that once heard is never remembered. Dreadful unto its dying chords, it's amazing the dross that Dave Edmunds (in the guise of producer) is prepared to associate himself with these days. Still, whatever I say won't prevent it from being a massive hit. Trying to ensure otherwise would be like trying to blow out a searchlight. Hopeless. (Mike Morris, No 1, December 14, 1985)

This one leaves me cold. Shaky's on thin ice here, as he skates through a precarious rocking rendition of Xmas tidings, complete with doo wops and sleigh bells. Someone definitely left the sixpence out of this one. (Diane Cross, Record Mirror, December 7, 1985)

A stunningly original concept! I can't help thinking that Shaky would sing "The Red Flag" if his record company thought it would make him a few more bob. The great Dave Edmunds produced this record - can't hear him though! (Captain Sensible, No 1, December 21, 1985)